TITLE: Tourists

This project examines the performative aspect of tourism in the United States, by observing tourists interact with the attractions while they become part of the landscape itself. This photo series challenges the conventional understanding of landscape photography that tourists tried to pursue: clean, calm, undisturbed by others but themselves, which can often be a challenge in popular destinations, often overly glamoured by social media and tourism marketing. Travel photography has been present since the invention of “carte de visite”, the ritual of personal documentation has become an crucial yet inevitable part of modern tourism. Why do we choose to live in the future instead of the present? Do we still see the world as it is or do we only see it after we document it? Hu challenges this photographic ideal with his images, featuring unconventional landscapes that are filled with tourists.

AUTHOR: Xihao Hu (United States)

Xihao Hu was born in Shenzhen, China, where his early years were shaped by the social constructs of a collectivist society. At the age of 16, he moved to the United States in pursuit of better educational opportunities and personal growth. This transition exposed him to the contrasting dynamics of communism and capitalism, collectivism and individualism, sparking a deep sensitivity to the cultural clashes between Eastern and Western ways of living.

Fascinated by the diversity of human experiences, Hu’s work explores the interplay between individualism and collective identity, offering a nuanced perspective on how these concepts coexist and shape our lives. Through his art, he captures the intricate stories of people from all walks of life, fostering understanding and appreciation for the rich tapestry of human existence. Hu’s creative vision invites audiences to reflect on their own place within the broader narrative of humanity.