Book Description
The people of China are changing the face of their country with tremendous tenacity, and often with their bare hands. Sometimes, it seems as if not a single plot of ground remains unturned or unproductive. The changes are so rapid and so prolific that the photographer finds himself constantly a step behind, chasing memories. The ancient rhythms of China, once thought to be eternal, are being muffled as the country begins to look more and more like everywhere else in the new Asia. Change is a constant in China that provokes mixed feelings in photographer James Delano. The light, muted by the ever-present coal smoke, possesses a certain softness; people’s faces are smudged, their eyes hungry and ambitious. This generation may be rough around the edges, but they are on the way up, sacrificing for their children and grandchildren; they are nation-building. No matter how much China transforms itself, a certain degree of ‘Chineseness’ will always remain. The question is, how much? For Delano, immersing himself in a country means quietly wandering the backstreets of the cities, towns and villages and, for a few moments, slipping unnoticed into places and situations. He passes quickly and quietly, capturing the immediacy he seeks without disturbing the scene. Too slow, and he risks losing the moment forever. This strong photographic exploration delves beneath the surface of its subject: a study of light, energy, emotion and China’s reaction to the intrusion of a foreign observer. This book presents a critical, at times ironic, but always informed vision of the nation and its people.
About the author
James Whitlow Delano’s ongoing photographic work has taken him from the rainforests of Southeast Asia to the ancient Silk Road in China’s far west. Focusing on Asia’s vanishing heritage in the face of rapid industrialization, Delano has been drawn to China time and again. Photographic assignments have also taken him to the highlands of Latin America, Europe and Africa. His photographs have appeared in important magazines all over the world, including Time and Travel & Leisure, and received major awards.
Orville Schell was born in New York City. He has devoted his professional life to reporting on and writing about Asia, in particular about China. Schell is currently the Dean of the Graduate School of Journalism at the University of Berkeley.
Colin Jacobson runs the MA Photography program at Falmouth College of Arts, Cornwall. He has written widely on contemporary photography and has been the jury of the World Press Photo Contest, twice as chairman.
