Chinese photographer Xiao Quan, who is known for his photos of celebrities like rocker Cui Jian and author Sanmao, is displaying his latest photos of Shenzhen people to mark the 40th anniversary of the founding of the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone. Entry to this exhibition is free.

Xiao rose to prominence in the late 1980s, capturing China’s emerging writers, directors and artists in their early days, including such leading figures as director Zhang Yimou, director Chen Kaige, actor and director Jiang Wen, writer Yu Hua and dancer Yang Liping.

Born in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, Xiao began recording the youthful faces of a generation of intellectuals in the 1980s and the 1990s. His photos capture the artistic experimentation of China when the country opened to the outside world. His precise grasp of characters and close contact with that generation have imbued his works with social and historical significance. With warmth and persistence, Xiao witnessed the growth of that generation, reflected their pain and joy, hesitation and persistence, and above all, projected his eternal care for life.

This year, it took Xiao one month to take photos of more than 300 Shenzhen people from all walks of life. Past photos of Xiao and photos depicting his friendship with French photographer Marc Riboud are also on display. Visitors can use an automatic camera at the exhibition to take snapshots of themselves and pin the photos on a wall.

Dates: Until Dec. 10

Venue: Horizon Hall, inside Sea World Culture and Arts Center, Nanshan District (南山区海上世界文化艺术中心视界厅)

Metro: Line 2 to Sea World Station (海上世界站), Exit A

(SD News)