Xiru Du is a student at Beijing No. 80 High School in China. She has explored a range of academic and creative interests, including history, art, and documentary production. Through these activities, she combines research, creativity, and community engagement.
Creative Arts and Historical Research
Xiru attended the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Summer College glassmaking programme. There, she developed foundational glass art skills and created several artworks. This experience allowed her to explore artistic techniques and express her creativity through a new medium.
In addition to her artistic pursuits, Xiru conducted research on Mary E. Lease, an influential but often overlooked orator of the People’s Party during the Gilded Age. Through this research, she explored the connections between gender politics, public speaking, and American history. Her work also gave her a deeper understanding of women’s roles in political movements.
Documentary Production and Community Initiatives
Beyond individual research, Xiru led the production of a history documentary. The project focused on how high school students understand key events in 20th-century Chinese society. Through this work, she explored historical awareness among young people and helped present important events through documentary storytelling.
Furthermore, Xiru organised a photography exhibition featuring birds found in her school garden. The exhibition combined her interest in photography with an effort to support nature observation at school.
To raise funds for binoculars, Xiru created bird illustrations and featured them on stationery items and bags. She sold more than 100 items, helping raise funds for the project. As a result, the initiative brought together art, fundraising, and an appreciation for local wildlife.
Xiru’s experiences reflect her diverse interests in history, creative arts, and community engagement. Moreover, her projects demonstrate how research and creativity can help explore cultural topics and connect people with their surroundings.
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