Ren Hang is not a photographer who wants to shock necessarily you . Penis, bondage and illusory obscene situations are only a small part of his work as a visual artist. Republic – his new book – shows it perfectly to us, probably thanks to the support of his publisher too. Roughness is there, but I think the whole work collected for Republic is full of kindness, humour, love for his model and talent for the composition.
Visually strong, Ren Hang’s work has strong meanings too, I think. He said to VICE magazine that “people come into this world naked and I consider naked bodies to be people’s original authentic look. So I feel the real existence of people through their naked bodies”. These bodies – often in fetal position – are also a proud scream for freedom. A word and a concept – freedom – that has another relevant significance for a young artist (1987) whose photography is almost banned in many galleries in his country, China.
Here is a talk I had with Ren Hang, who I thank again.
Why do you choose the title Republic? Any reference to the political situation in China?
This topic is selected Press [a selection of his recent works], I feel very good. I do not care about politics, but politics always care about me. In China nudity is not allowed, my images encountered many difficulties.
You are a poet too. But it seems you don’t mix word and image. Why?
It has almost nothing [in common] my poetry and my photos. I write poetry when [I do not take] photos and pictures [when I] do not write poetry. They are the parallel two things in my life, almost nothing in common.
Your images are absolutely explicit. Is it only provocation or is there something more?
The picture [I take] is of no significance. I do not have any clear sense of purpose, my picture is for fun, [he laughs]. Maybe I have not the artistic [purpose] that other artists have.
What does censorship mean to you?
Means: shit!
What does pornography mean to you?
I do not know what is pornography, If we say that nudity is pornography, sex is erotic, then I too love porn! Eros filled my life! I think nudity is the most realistic, I like real.
Who are your models?
My models [are] all my friends. They trust me, and I love them most.
Eliseo Barbàra
MoST Artists
Republic
Ren Hang
Publisher: du LIC, 2012
460 numbered copies
116 images
29.0 cm x 29.5 cm
ISBN 978-82-999067-4-6
