Life Is Not Elsewhere

生活不在别处

In these twelve photographic works, there are twelve moments encapsulated. Life, as it appears through the lens, is filled with small surprises and beauty. It's these moments that make us pause, the everyday facets buried beneath, the overlooked landscapes along the way, those aimless afternoons, and the romance captured in our surroundings. "Life is not elsewhere; the present is everything." This is a classic collection of essays by Mr. Lao She, where he wrote about his life and captured the reality of an era, its customs, and sentiments with unwavering loyalty. "To live in the present" is an attitude towards life, a way of fully engaging in life, shedding inner burdens, and discovering more perspectives of life. In the midst of ordinary life, in this very moment, independent and serene reflection, observing from an outsider's perspective, the introspective gaze from within and without – these are all immensely precious. Finding meaning in the cruelty and introspection of the present moment is the essence of life. Life is not elsewhere ; the present is everything. I record my 19‘s with this exhibition, and I hope that my 20’s will continue to be filled with curiosity and a drive to document and explore.

October 1, 2023