Jia Lin Yan

Published by Tofu Collective, Rooms Within China is a kaleidoscopic collection of 100 photographs captured by 20 of the most noteworthy contemporary photographers from China. Originating from a wide array of areas, generations and artistic approaches, the contributors altogether form an eclectic image of Chinese contemporary photography and illustrate a broad spectrum of expressions within the complex and diverse phenomenon that is China. All contributions are encapsulated inside rooms as the frame of setting — be it public constructions or private homes — echoing everything from daily chores, work, leisure, pleasure, and interior decor to intimacy, open-mindedness, escapism, current trends, countercultures, and generation gaps. Rooms, in this sense, are a metaphor for human expression, a relatable setting constituted by the basic architectural structure of a floor, a ceiling, and walls, displaying the innermost life of individuals, groups and humanity as a whole. The 100 photographs, in this sense, become a sequence of fragmentary memories, actions and events reframing past rooms in retrospect or in preparation for renewed considerations and experiences.

Featured artists: Chen Ronghui, Coca Dai, Feng Li, Gao Shan, Jialin Yan, Li Lin, Li Zhengde, Lin Zhipeng, Luo Yang, Pixy Liao, Shi Yangkun, Wang Lu, Wenjun Chen & Yanmei Jiang, Wenxin Zhang, Wu Liewei, Xiaoxiao Xu, Yan Cong, Yuyang Liu, Zhou Pinglang, Zhu Lanqing.

Rooms Within China is generously supported by Politiken Fonden and S. C. Van Fonden.