Personal projects, universal emotions
Thurs 5 Jul 2018, 7.30pm to 9.30pm
Workshop Space, Objectifs
Seminar Fee: $20
Visiting speaker An Rong Xu is a photographer and director based in New York, whose work is often focused on Chinese American identities and communities.
In this seminar, he will share how photographers can find their voice through personal projects, how to identify stories in our surroundings and how they can be developed, over time, into works that document and comment on bigger social, cultural and political issues. With close reference to his own work and experiences, An Rong will demonstrate how one’s own home is rich with stories yet untold, and how “that which is most personal can be most universal”.
This seminar will be broadly relevant not only to photographers and filmmakers but anyone interested in exploring stories close to home, whether for a personal journey of discovery, or to actively comment on an issue and advocate for a cause. It will also be insightful for those with an interest in immigrant experiences in the American context, Chinese American identity and social, cultural and political issues affecting this community.
Please note that this seminar will not involve shooting. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with An Rong in a Q&A session as part of the seminar.
About An Rong Xu
An Rong Xu is a New York City based photographer and director. Born in China and raised in New York City’s Chinatown, Xu explores the world around him through his unique cultural perspective.
Xu has photographed and directed for publications and companies such as The New York Times, TIME Magazine, The Washington Post, GQ Taiwan, The History Channel, Instagram, airbnb, Under Armour and Google. In 2018, he was selected as one of Photo District News’ 30 New and Emerging Photgraphers to watch. Visit his website at anrongxu.com.