Xinjiang's domestic life revealed through insights by Hailun Ma
News Article: Hailun Ma's "Family Albums" Explores Kinship and Cultural Diversity in Xinjiang
In the latest issue of Atmos Volume 9, Chinese photographer Hailun Ma presents a compelling collection of photographs titled Family Albums. This project, which aims to remind us of our existence in a web of relationship and kinship, explores themes of family, biodiversity, wildlife, symbiosis, and conservation, all set against the backdrop of Xinjiang.
The photographs, styled to resemble traditional family albums, depict an ordinary Xinjiang family and aim to reveal the magic in mundane, intimate moments. The cast for this story includes Zizi Luo, Nico Sun, Nisha, Polar Bear, AE, Arf, Mire, Parzana, Ali, Murad, Sununa, and Mofeid, with Saypahi not specified in their roles. The styling for the photographs was done by Runhao Li.
Ma's unique narrative style features ten local non-professional models playing various family roles. The photographs were deliberately blurred to create a sense of timelessness, adding to the emotional depth of the images. The story titled "Common Ground" first appeared in Atmos Volume 9: Kinship.
While specific information about a photography project titled "Family Albums in Xinjiang: Nostalgic Modern Family Portraits and Cultural Exploration" could not be found, Ma's work in Xinjiang reflects themes of cultural exploration and modern family narratives through her unique blend of fashion and cultural elements.
Born and raised in Ürümqi, the capital of Xinjiang, Ma studied photography at the School of Visual Arts in New York City. Her work often blends fashion with cultural elements, aiming to redefine perceptions of Xinjiang. Ma's "Hometown" series, photographed in 2018, focuses on personal and intimate aspects of life in Xinjiang. The series was captured during a journey from Ürümqi to villages around Kashgar, Akqi, and Xayar. It features models in vibrant, fashion-forward attire, set against the backdrop of Xinjiang’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
Ma's photography often fuses fashion and tradition, creating a unique narrative about Xinjiang. Her work is praised for its ability to capture the vibrant cultural tapestry of the region, though some critics argue that it reinforces mainstream political discourses about Xinjiang’s modernity and beauty. However, Ma's intent is to present a new perspective on the region, challenging stereotypes and promoting an understanding of its beauty and diversity.
The collection of photographs and accompanying text in Family Albums is meant to map the past and present of the family, highlighting the culinary delights and communal cultures of Xinjiang. This project is a testament to Ma's dedication to exploring and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of her homeland.
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