A Two-dimensional Record of Scenes From Childhood (2024)

Photos

The artwork consists of a selection of photos from the thousands my parents took during my childhood in Hangzhou, China, before we immigrated to Canada when I was 13. By carving out all images of myself and leaving only the people and backgrounds, I intend to shift the viewer's focus from the intended subject—me—to that specific time at the turn of the millennium and that particular place in mainland China. I filled the black spaces with text that reflects either streams of consciousness from when I first saw these photos or what the photos remind me of regarding my emotions at the time. Although I lived through these moments, I barely remember them, so the childhood photos seem novel to me.

In doing this, I connect those childhood moments with the moments I viewed them, as if I could return to them upon seeing them again. Consequently, the photos become a two-dimensional record of scenes I once experienced and have since forgotten. Thus, the artwork values cameras and photographs as a treasure for humanity, enabling us to recall, embrace, and cherish memories and experiences.