Blindspot Gallery presents “Equal Relationships” featuring two Mainland Chinese photography artists, 223 (aka Lin Zhi Peng) and Ren Hang.
Visually, 223 and Ren share similarities in their works. Their works depict subjects such as their living environment, sex, homosexuality and bodily media. Despite the visual similarities, their works are constructed very differently.
223’s snapshot aesthetic spontaneously documents his subjects in the everyday, offering clues to his lifestyle choices. In his own words, “My works are part of my life and only exist when I live my life”.
In contrast to 223, Ren Hang’s carefully constructed staged photography (in some cases pretending to be snapshot) is more ambiguous with the subject devoid of any sense of self. At times the work is exploitative and highly fetishistic, provoking an immediate emotional response; at other times it is abstract and minimalistic, inviting to a quiet contemplation.
About 223
223 (aka Lin Zhi Peng) was born in 1979 in Guangdong province, China. He graduated from the Guangdong University of Foreign Studies with a major in Financial English. 223 is a photographer and freelance writer. He contributes to numerous creative and fashion magazines as photographer and editor. In 2005, 2006 and 2011, he published three volumes of photography magazines showing his own work. 223 is also a successful blogger. His blog North Latitude 23 where he posted his personal photographs and articles attracted millions of views. 223 currently lives and works in Beijing, China.
About Ren Hang
Ren Hang was born in 1987 in Chang Chun, Jilin province, China. Ren is a photographer and poet. In 2010, he was awarded The Third Annual Terna Prize for Contemporary Art. Ren’s work has been exhibited extensively in China and overseas. Ren Hang now lives and works in Beijing, China.
“Equal Relationships”
by 223 (aka Lin Zhi Peng) and Ren Hang
Until February 28
Blindspot Gallery
24-26A, Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong
