
Artist, architect and activist, Malaysian born Red Hong Yi is breaking new ground when it comes to creating art. She is renowned for her imaginative use of everyday materials that are recreated to form inspiring mixed media installations, most recently including a striking commission to represent climate change for the cover of TIME Magazine.
Known as ‘the artist who paints without a paintbrush’, Red Hong Yi’s designer approach and combined use of tradition and technology are trailblazing the art world–-much like The Glenlivet’s 200 year history of whisky innovation.
In celebration of original artists inspired by travel, The Glenlivet Groundbreaker Collection is a new, exclusive collection of single malt whisky. And we’re delighted to share our first release
– Chapter One: The Journey Inward, a limited edition bottle designed by Red Hong Yi herself.
Reflecting on her unique travel experiences and the locations that have impacted her life so far, Red Hong Yi’s packaging uses her signature style of charred red parchment. The colours of which inspired her alias ‘Red’ and influenced our whisky edition’s tasting notes and finish.
Here we talk to Red Hong Yi about the inspiration behind the bottle’s design and how she’ll be celebrating Lunar New Year with The Glenlivet.
How have your travels around the world informed your aesthetic as an artist?
I truly believe that your environment will shape the way you think and create as an artist. I’ve lived in a few different cities, and looking back, each city I live in brings out a different side of me that’s reflected in my work. Some cities do that more than others.
Growing up in Borneo gave me a deep appreciation for nature and wildlife, and taught me the importance of harmony and respect for the environment. Shanghai, with its blend of tradition and rapid modernisation, east and west, old and new, taught me to embrace contrasts – I loved the exhilaration of a city that embodied all that energy. I also got to connect with my roots (my grandparents are from Shanghai) and this discovery moved me so much, it compelled me to create the type of artwork I am known for today. Los Angeles introduced me to a community of dreamers and innovators, fueling my curiosity and boldness as a creator. I also spent almost a decade in Melbourne, Australia – which feels like a second home to me.
Can you tell us more about the process behind designing the artworks for The Glenlivet Groundbreaker packaging?
Creating the artwork for The Glenlivet Groundbreaker pack was deeply personal. I started by reflecting on places that have profoundly shaped me as an artist and individual: Borneo’s lush landscapes, the dynamic skyline of Shanghai, the creative community of Los Angeles, and finally, Scotland’s whisky heritage.
While I’ve yet to visit Scotland, I wanted to show its beautiful landscape and the distilleries of the Glenlivet in my art. The process involved sketching, experimenting with textures, charring and burning red calligraphy paper onto canvas for almost a month with my studio team.
Out of all the places you have travelled to, which one is your favourite and why?
Shanghai holds a special place in my heart as my favourite. It’s the city where my career as an artist truly began, and it represents a period of immense growth, discovery, and reconnection.
When I first moved to Shanghai, I lived in a little alleyway (or longtang) with my old relatives who had lived there for generations. Over time, I realised how deeply these connections influenced my art. It took me nearly ten years to truly understand the importance of this heritage in shaping not only my creative voice but also my sense of self. I made sure to include this alleyway in The Glenlivet Groundbreaker packaging – it’s on the frontal facing side!
How do you celebrate the Lunar New Year?
Lunar New Year is a time for reconnecting with family and celebrating traditions. In the first few days, we’re encouraged to wear red which symbolises good luck and fortune in the Chinese tradition. This is also why I use this colour in many of my artworks.
Are there any traditions that are special in your family?
One of my favourite traditions is receiving and giving red packets and greeting each other with well wishes. There’s also a lot of storytelling, laughter, and gathering over lots of good food!
How do you best enjoy The Glenlivet whisky?
I love it on its own, with a big cube of ice, and in a nice whisky glass. In fact, I just ordered a whisky glass a few hours ago and look forward to enjoying some of The Glenlivet Groundbreaker in it.
Find out more about The Glenlivet Groundbreaker Collection and discover our favourite Lunar New Year cocktails to make in celebration.