The Wind Island

Gao Yan’s 2019 photo book, “The Wind Island,” refers to the islands of the Taiwan Strait in China’s southeastern Fujian Province. Tracing back to the Tang Dynasty, this region has a deep history as a trading hub, possessing a unique and original culture and architecture influenced by its close ties to the Maritime Silk Road. These islands and peninsulas are rich in resources. In 2013, the area was designated a Comprehensive Experimental Zone, allowing the local government to attract businesses and investments. Commerce and tourism flourished; natural resources were exploited.

Gao Yan first visited the area in April 2017 with students from the Tianjin Academy of Fine Arts’ photography department to observe nature and explore remote, undeveloped areas. However, during his first and second visits in July 2017, he found that development had already significantly impacted the local topography and way of life. In his photographs, he attempts to document these rapid changes from his perspective and explore the turbulent relationship between local residents, the natural environment, heritage, history, and modern development.