Pain, Diaries & A Camera: An Interview With Lifu Hu
We have the pleasure of delving into the creative world of Lifu Hu, a talented photographer based in New York City. With a background in Electronic Engineering and a Master's degree in Digital Photography from the School of Visual Arts, Lifu's journey is a testament to following one's artistic calling.
Specializing in conceptual, still life, and documentary photography, Lifu's work speaks volumes through visually compelling narratives that capture the essence of her subjects with precision and creativity.
Join us as we explore her artistic vision and unique ability to craft stories through her lens, inviting viewers to experience the world from a fresh and inspiring perspective.
Lifu Hu. Image courtesy of the artist.SAH: How has your journey from studying Electronic Engineering to pursuing a photography career shaped your artistic perspective?
LH: My four years studying electronic engineering during undergrad are a deeply painful memory for me. I didn't have a passion for that field, and each day, the complexities of the coursework slowly drained me. I had few friends at that time, and my parents didn't understand me. However, the pain of that low point granted me a lot of inspiration. Thankfully, things took a turn for the better later on—I had the opportunity to study in New York and officially began my journey into artistic creation. That period in college led me down many winding paths and didn't necessarily yield tangible results, but I'm still grateful for that experience. It bestowed upon me immense spiritual wealth.
Lifu Hu. First Love. 2023. Archival pigment print. 22*15 inches.SAH: Your work encompasses conceptual, still life, and documentary photography. How do you navigate between these different ?
LH: For me, regardless of the photography style, its essence lies in conveying my emotions and feelings through the lens. In conceptual photography, I express the emotions I want to convey by designing the models' poses and creating the scenes myself.
The same goes for still-life photography; I enjoy anthropomorphizing objects and giving them different attributes. Documentary photography is no different; besides simply recording moments, I like to use a "peeping" perspective to present a more authentic and lively image.
SAH: Could you share a significant moment or experience that solidified your decision to pursue photography professionally?
LH: When I was a freshman in college, I got my first camera. Shortly after, I met a photography teacher who taught me how to explore my emotions and express myself through the lens. I grapple with defining myself and understanding the relationship between myself, the lens, and the subject, and I still strive to find the most genuine way of expressing myself through my lens.
Lifu Hu. First Love. 2023. Archival pigment print. 22*15 inches.SAH: With a background in both technical expertise and artistic vision, how do you find a balance between precision and creativity in your photography?
LH: I don't feel the need to find a balance between these two aspects. My undergraduate background in Electronic Information Engineering has provided me with a lot of creative inspiration, but it hasn't limited my way of thinking or creativity. On the contrary, at times, my background in science has helped me better plan my shoots and organize my work more systematically.
SAH: How does your cultural heritage influence the stories you choose to tell through your photography?
LH: I feel that my upbringing has greatly contributed to my creativity. Both the country I grew up in and the family I was born into have given me a unique way of thinking. The joy, pain, and reflections they brought me are all referenced in my projects "Relationship," "Grandma," and "The Lost City."
Lifu Hu. First Love. 2023. Archival pigment print. 22*15 inches.
Lifu Hu. First Love. 2023. Archival pigment print. 22*15 inches.SAH: Your photography is known for conveying emotion, narrative, and aesthetic beauty. How do you approach storytelling through visual imagery?
LH: Before I delved into photography, my sole means of expression was through journaling. However, I later discovered that it wasn't a secure or private method. Consequently, I tore up most of my diaries. I felt that photography, to some extent, replaced those diaries; my creations became my memories, my thoughts, my emotions. Taking pictures became a way to materialize my diaries.
For instance, if in my diary I wrote, "We, like two balloons ready to explode, hid in a thicket of tangled bushes," in my actual photography, I would use props and find ways to recreate the imagery from my mind.
SAH: In your opinion, how does photography allow for a unique exploration of the intersection between humanity and the environment?
LH: I believe that to connect with nature, the most important thing is to open oneself to experiencing it. Imagine yourself as part of the natural world, transforming your body into an element of nature, such as a blade of grass or a tree. Alternatively, anthropomorphize natural elements, finding the relationship between their forms and the human body
SAH: Can you discuss a project that holds personal significance to you?
LH: The most significant project for me is "First Love," which I completed last year. Both the preparation and the shooting process brought me a lot of reflection, allowing me to examine myself more deeply and comprehensively, particularly my behaviour patterns in an intimate relationship. Additionally, this project was my first attempt at portrait photography. It helped me overcome my inner insecurities and fears, and it also made me appreciate the enthusiastic support and care from my friends and teachers.
Lifu Hu. First Love. 2023. Archival pigment print. 22*15 inches.SAH: Looking ahead, what future directions or themes are you excited to explore in your upcoming photography projects or exhibitions?
I am currently conceptualizing a new photography project, also centred around the theme of love. This time, I want to experiment with creating a short film in the style of a play. It will feature two main actors and use simple everyday objects to symbolize the emotions of the protagonists in the relationship.
SAH: What advice would you give someone just starting an artistic career?
LH: My advice is to open yourself up and honestly face your inner self. Use tools or methods that suit you to express your emotions and convey your true thoughts. Only what is genuine can be truly moving.
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