INTERVIEW
September 30, 2020
STRANGERS IN SHANGHAI
Photography by Cindy Wang
Interview by Melanie Meggs
As the cacophony of city life hums in the background, Cindy Wang stands still, a camera in hand, waiting for her chance to capture the present moment in all its imperfect glory. Through her lens, she seeks to capture the unique beauty of the people and places that make up the vibrant city of Shanghai, a place that holds a special place in her heart. Growing up, she had fond memories of her grandfather taking photos of her with a film camera, igniting a passion for street photography that has become an integral part of her life. Cindy’s obsession with strangers and their behaviour in and around Shanghai, avoids pursuing perfection, instead choosing to focus on the small moments of life that often go unnoticed. Join us as we take a closer look at Cindy’s incredible journey, and discover why she loves her city so much.
“I am from Shanghai and I live and work here. I started drawing when in elementary school and continued to do so. I graduated from art school, majoring in interior design. I am currently designing clothes and accessories for dogs. My grandfather introduced me to photography but it was at university where I took a course in photography and bought my first camera which was a digital Olympus.”
IN CONVERSATION WITH CINDY WANG
THE PICTORIAL LIST: Cindy, where do you find your inspiration?
CINDY WANG: From movies and visiting art galleries worldwide, where I study the artistic geniuses from the past; also from my travels, where I have witnessed not only the most amazing scenery, but humble people going about their daily business.
TPL: What do you want to express through your photography? What are some of the elements you always try to include in your photographs?
CW: I want to capture the meaningful 'moment in time' of my subject, with particular attention to using light and shade to its greatest effect.
TPL: Do you have any favourite artists or photographers you would like to share with us, and the reason for their significance?
CW: Robert Doisneau and Walker Evans have inspired my photography.
TPL: Do you prefer to shoot alone or with friends?
CW: I prefer to shoot alone so that I can concentrate on what I am trying to achieve without distractions.
TPL: Do you have a preferred lens/focal length?
CW: My favourite lens to use are 23mm F1.4 and 50mm F2
TPL: Where is your favourite place to photograph?
CW: The station, art centres, in the streets, the market, just about anywhere I find an interesting subject.
TPL: Has your style of shooting changed since you first started?
CW: Yes, my style has changed dramatically...I originally shot buildings and landscapes. But now I look for something out of the ordinary, in the same way that Leonardo da Vinci used to go to the market in Florence to sketch old and interesting people. Just like is crowd scenes in his masterpieces, I look for interesting people in everyday life, perhaps in the streets, at the market, in the harbour, just anywhere, going about their daily business.
TPL: Are there any special projects you are currently working on that you would like to let everyone know about?
CW: I regularly go down to the harbour in Shanghai and I am building a portfolio of life in Shanghai harbour.
TPL: What are some of your goals as an artist? Where do you see yourself or hope to see yourself in five years?
CW: I am determined to become a professional photographer – I want to be renowned as someone that a client can rely on to produce the best product possible.
TPL: “When I am not out photographing, I (like to)...
CW: I am fascinated with art and have been all over the world visiting art galleries. I travel a lot, and I’m interested in all other cultures. In my spare time, I read, draw, paint and do calligraphy. I go to the movies and take yoga classes. Other than that, I spend time walking the streets, going to markets etc., wherever I may find interesting people or places to shoot."
