A vibrant celebration of artistry and connection took place at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva last Thursday, where the China Cultural Centre in Fiji and the Department of Communications of Guizhou Province launched the “Fiji Special Exhibition of China Guizhou Bridge Construction Art Photography.” This event commemorated the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
The exhibition highlighted not only stunning photographic works but also underscored the transformative impact of infrastructure in one of China’s most mountainous regions. Guizhou Province, located in southwest China, is known for its challenging terrain, lacking flatlands. Yet, in recent years, the provincial government has made significant advancements in creating a “transportation plain” by developing a comprehensive network of highways, railways, and bridges.
These infrastructural developments have transformed the lives of local residents by fostering economic growth and aiding poverty alleviation. Curated by Chen Peng, a seasoned photographer with extensive experience in documenting industrial progress, the exhibition presented over 30 photographers whose works reflect the impressive architectural achievements represented by Guizhou’s bridges.
The photographs ranged from breathtaking aerial views to intimate scenes of daily life beneath these structures, collectively narrating a tale of innovation, resilience, and community. Mr. Chen, who began his photographic journey in Guizhou five years ago with a focus on cultural documentation, found inspiration in the region’s majestic mountains and intricate bridges. He transitioned to capturing the industrial changes reshaping the area.
“The bridges are not just structures. They are lifelines for the people of Guizhou, connecting isolated communities and enabling progress,” he expressed in an interview. Through his lens, Mr. Chen invites observers to witness the synergy between nature’s elegance and human innovation. Each image not only showcases the engineering excellence of the bridges but also emphasizes their crucial role in the lives of those who depend on them.
The exhibition served a larger purpose beyond displaying photographs; it conveyed a significant message about connection and community. Mr. Chen’s work illustrates how bridges symbolize hope and progress in a region that has historically faced geographical isolation. “Before these bridges, travelling between villages was a daunting task,” he remarked. “Now, they represent the promise of better lives and greater opportunities.”
The theme of connection was particularly poignant, coinciding with Fiji’s own national unity celebrations. The opening night featured performances by cultural groups that enhanced the festive mood, intertwining the celebrations of both nations and emphasizing shared values at the 75th anniversary reception hosted by the Chinese embassy.
Mr. Chen candidly discussed the challenges he encountered throughout his photographic journey. Navigating the rugged terrain required not just physical endurance but also financial resources to capture the lengthy bridge construction processes. Despite these hurdles, the resulting images vividly reflect the hard work involved, documenting each project’s details from beginning to end.
“The creative process is exhaustive; compiling the photographs for this exhibition took years,” he stated. “Patience is essential when documenting infrastructure, as the development of a single bridge can span several years.” Each photograph stands as a testament to the dedication and effort of the engineers and workers involved in these projects.
As attendees explored the exhibition, they were encouraged to contemplate the wider implications of infrastructure in society. Mr. Chen hopes his work not only fosters appreciation for the artistry of bridge construction but also raises awareness of how such developments can alleviate poverty and enhance connectivity.
One of Mr. Chen’s favorite pieces in the exhibition features the Qian Chun Interchange in Guiyang, Guizhou Province, captured at night. This photograph highlights its intricate design and engineering excellence, appearing like a living organism illuminated against the nighttime sky. “It symbolizes the lifeblood of the region,” he explained, likening the bridge’s form to the circulation of life it facilitates.
Looking ahead, after the successful launch of the Guizhou bridge exhibition, Mr. Chen envisions future projects that will engage local artists in Fiji, focusing on human interest photography and the natural beauty of the islands. As the exhibition continues at the China Cultural Centre in Suva, it serves as a powerful reminder of the compelling narratives captured through photography — stories celebrating human triumphs and the bridges that connect us all, both literally and metaphorically.