A vibrant celebration of art and connectivity 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 showcased stunning photography while highlighting the transformative impact of infrastructure in one of China’s most mountainous regions. Guizhou Province, known for its rugged landscape, has made significant progress in developing a “transportation plain” in recent years, creating connections through highways, railways, and bridges. These infrastructures have dramatically improved the lives of local residents, boosting economic growth and aiding poverty alleviation.
Curated by photographer Chen Peng, who has an extensive background in documenting industrial developments, the exhibition featured over 30 photographers whose works depict the architectural achievements represented by Guizhou’s bridges. The photographs ranged from breathtaking aerial views to intimate snapshots of daily life around these structures, narrating a story of innovation, resilience, and community.
Chen, who began his photographic journey in Guizhou five years ago, initially set out to capture the province’s culture. However, he soon became inspired by the formidable mountains and elaborate bridges, prompting a shift toward documenting the region’s industrial transformation. He emphasized that “the bridges are not just structures; they are lifelines for the people of Guizhou, linking isolated communities and enabling progress.” Through his lens, Chen aims to showcase the interplay between natural beauty and human ingenuity, illustrating the significance of these engineering feats in the lives of the locals.
The exhibition served as more than just a photographic showcase; it conveyed a message of connectivity and community. Chen aimed to demonstrate how bridges symbolize hope and progress in a region historically challenged by geographical isolation. He remarked on how, before the bridges, traveling between villages was a formidable task, whereas now they signify the promise of improved lives and greater opportunities.
The celebration coincided with Fiji’s own festivities of national unity, enhanced by cultural performances during the opening night that interconnected the celebrations of both nations and underscored the shared values of community and connection.
Chen shared insights into the challenges he faced during his photographic endeavor, noting that the rugged terrain demanded physical endurance and financial backing to document the extensive construction processes of the bridges. Despite these difficulties, the photographs captured the intricate details involved in each project, showcasing the years spent in their creation.
As attendees wandered through the exhibition, they reflected on the broader implications of infrastructure in society. Chen hopes that his work not only fosters an appreciation for the art of bridge construction but also raises awareness of the critical role such developments play in alleviating poverty and enhancing connectivity.
One of Chen’s personal favorite pieces, a photograph of the Qian Chun Interchange in Guiyang taken at night, illustrates the intricate design and engineering involved in its construction. He described it as a symbol of the region’s lifeblood, reflecting the vital connections it enables.
Looking to the future, Chen envisions collaborating with local artists in Fiji on projects focusing on human interest photography and the islands’ natural beauty. As the exhibition remains on display at the China Cultural Centre in Suva, it serves as a testament to the powerful stories captured through photography, celebrating human spirit triumphs and the bridges—both literal and metaphorical—that unite us all.