Examining the Clandestine Domestic Lifestyle in Xinjiang, as Depicted by Hailun Ma
Atmos Volume 09, the latest instalment from the photography series, is now available for purchase. Titled "Kinship," this collection is a poignant exploration of family, relationships, and the rich cultural tapestry of Xinjiang.
Photographer Hailun Ma, known for her captivating portrayals of Xinjiang's diverse ethnic communities, has once again brought her unique vision to the forefront. The collection features blurred timelines, making the photos appear as if they are happening now, in the past, or in the future.
A Collection of Stories and Relationships
"Kinship" is a collection of stories that remind us of the web of relationships and kinship we exist in. Ten local friends, who are not professional models, were casted for this photo series, each assigned a specific family role. The collection aims to reveal the magic of mundane, intimate moments, weaving familial motifs and showcasing the culinary delights and communal cultures of Xinjiang.
Mapping the Past and Present of Xinjiang Families
The collection focuses on the colorful chronicles of an ordinary Xinjiang family, aiming to map the past and present of Xinjiang families. Runhao Li serves as the stylist for this collection, with the inspiration drawn from family albums, serving as a source of inspiration and a medium for family stories and history.
Hailun Ma's Body of Work
While "Family Albums" is not a documented series, Hailun Ma's photography generally explores themes of cultural identity, personal expression, and the intersection of tradition and modernity in Xinjiang. Her work is characterized by its vivid portrayal of ethnic minorities and the evolving youth culture in the region.
Ma's work often reflects on her personal experiences and observations of cultural identity, particularly in Xinjiang. Her photographs are known for capturing the diverse and vibrant expressions of ethnic minorities in the region. Some of her notable series include "Hometown" (2018), "Kazakh Cowboys" (2019), and "Kashi Youth."
In "Hometown," Ma focuses on the traditional clothing and personal style of ethnic minorities in Xinjiang as genuine expressions of their identity. "Kazakh Cowboys" captures the unique cultural elements of the Kazakh community in Xinjiang, blending traditional imagery with modern themes. "Kashi Youth" explores the lives and identities of young people in Xinjiang, showcasing how they navigate traditional and modern influences.
A Vibrant Portrayal of Xinjiang Culture
With "Kinship," Hailun Ma continues to present a vibrant and nuanced portrayal of Xinjiang culture, delving deeper into the heart of family and community. The collection serves as a testament to the power of shared experiences and the enduring bonds that connect us all.
[1] Xinjiang Photo Stories: Hailun Ma's Hometown Series. (2018, October 22). Retrieved from https://www.chinaexpeditions.com/blog/xinjiang-photo-stories-hailun-ma-s-hometown-series/
[2] Xinjiang Photo Stories: Hailun Ma's Kashi Youth Series. (2020, March 23). Retrieved from https://www.chinaexpeditions.com/blog/xinjiang-photo-stories-hailun-ma-s-kashi-youth-series/
[3] Xinjiang Photo Stories: Hailun Ma's Kazakh Cowboys Series. (2019, November 12). Retrieved from https://www.chinaexpeditions.com/blog/xinjiang-photo-stories-hailun-ma-s-kazakh-cowboys-series/
[4] Zhang, X. (2020, December 16). Xinjiang Photographer Hailun Ma's "Kinship" Collection. Retrieved from https://www.artsy.net/article/artsy-editorial-xinjiang-photographer-hailun-ma-s-kinship-collection
- Atmos Volume 09, the photography series by Hailun Ma, delves into the realm of fashion-and-beauty and food-and-drink in Xinjiang, offering a captivating portrayal of global cuisines within its culture.
- The identity of Xinjiang shines through in Hailun Ma's work, as she captures the unique lifestyle of its people, combining art, home-and-garden, and family dynamics in her thought-provoking pieces.
- The "Kinship" collection, apart from showcasing stunning photography, provides insight into cooking and culinary traditions that play a significant role in the region's culture.
- Hailun Ma's body of work doesn't just exhibit the aesthetic appeal of art but delves deeper into the rich identity and culture of Xinjiang, making it an essential addition to any contemporary culture collection.
- The vibrant collection "Kinship" is not just about family and relationships; it's about understanding the complex tapestry of life in Xinjiang and its diverse communities through the medium of food, art, and lifestyle.
