10 Questions with Lifu Hu
Lifu Hu, originally from Chengdu, China, is now based in New York and is a dedicated photographer who skillfully captures moments through her lens. She holds a bachelor's degree in Electronic engineering from Chongqing University of Technology and a Master of Professional Studies in Digital Photography degree from the School of Visual Arts. Lifu focuses on conceptual photography, still life, and documentary photography, creating visually captivating stories that leave a lasting impression.
Lifu Hu - Portrait
ARTIST STATEMENT
Photography serves as a means of communication for Lifu Hu herself. Since she began her journey in photography, Lifu has used her sensitive heart to observe the world and herself. Her works predominantly revolve around her reflections on self-emotions and intimate relationships, exploring her connections with lovers, family, and her own being. Through a continual interrogation of the themes of self and "love," she has encountered immense pain, a pain she hopes can be perceived.
In her documentary photography, Lifu has consistently attempted to conceal herself. She doesn't wish for her lens to be cold, forceful, or seen from a superior standpoint. Instead, she aspires for her lens to be a gentle exploration, a reinterpretation infused with her own emotions, and an equal exchange with others.
The Lost City, Archival pigment print, 32x48 in, 2021 © Lifu Hu
INTERVIEW
Let's talk about yourself first. Why are you an artist, and how did you become one?
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. However, after all these years, I still struggle with the title of "artist." 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. I believe that one day, when I can face myself with the purest and most open heart, I will happily accept the beautiful title of "artist."
You originally studied Electronic engineering. How did you develop into the artist you are today? What training or experiences helped you in the process?
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.
First Love, Archival pigment print, 32x48 in, 2023 © Lifu Hu
First Love, Archival pigment print, 15x22 in, 2023 © Lifu Hu
You work with conceptual and documentary photography. Why did you choose this medium and these styles? And how do they help you in expressing yourself as an artist?
My initial exposure to conceptual photography was through the teacher I mentioned earlier. She trained me to use various symbolic elements to express my emotions, and gradually, I became accustomed to that form of expression. My love for documentary photography stemmed from a course I took during my postgraduate studies. That course made me realize that photography, besides capturing oneself, could also document others or events. Whether the method of documentation is gentle or forceful, it remains completely genuine and revealing. I believe that sincerity is precisely what I seek.
Your work is highly personal, almost like a diary. How do you translate your personal experiences into art pieces?
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.
Addict, Archival pigment print, 15x22 in, 2019 © Lifu Hu
Mom, Archival pigment print, 15x22 in, 2021 © Lifu Hu
Why did you choose to focus on your personal life and immediate surroundings? What would you like to achieve with your photography?
My exploration of self will continue throughout my life, and I believe this is why my creations are always centered around myself. I don't have an agenda to achieve something through photography or art. Robust vitality is beautiful; myriad thoughts are beautiful. My joy stems from documenting it all, experiencing it all— it's about the process rather than the destination.
And what other themes do you pursue with your work?
I want to explore capturing the human body and eyes through photography. I believe they were vital tools and pathways for exploring the world and conveying emotions long before the invention of human language.
Grandma, Archival pigment print, 32x48 in, 2019 © Lifu Hu
You use both black and white and colored photography. What difference do you perceive in these two techniques? And how do you use them in your work?
I enjoy and frequently use both of these different techniques. When shooting color photos, I tend to pay more attention to the emotional impact that colors evoke. Conversely, when capturing black-and-white images, I focus more on conveying the overall mood I intend to communicate.
Do you plan to experiment with any new medium or technique? And if so, in which direction would you like your work to develop?
I've always wanted to try filmmaking and performance art—areas I've never experienced but am deeply interested in exploring. I hope to use different mediums to help me explore the boundaries between self and the world, the ephemeral and the eternal, and the finite and the infinite.
Chinatown, Archival pigment print, 15x22 in, 2022 © Lifu Hu
Chinatown, Archival pigment print, 15x22 in, 2022 © Lifu Hu
On that note, what are you working on right now? Do you have any new projects or series you are currently developing?
Currently, I'm working on a diary-style short story, delving into the relationship between the physical and the spiritual, and the connection between memory and individuality. Perhaps in the future, I'll bring it to life through photography or short films.
And lastly, where do you see yourself and your work in five years from now?
I hope that in five years, my work can be more sincere and emotionally compelling. I also wish that if the opportunity arises, I could return to school to study film or philosophy.
Artist’s Talk
Al-Tiba9 Interviews is a promotional platform for artists to articulate their vision and engage them with our diverse readership through a published art dialogue. The artists are interviewed by Mohamed Benhadj, the founder & curator of Al-Tiba9, to highlight their artistic careers and introduce them to the international contemporary art scene across our vast network of museums, galleries, art professionals, art dealers, collectors, and art lovers across the globe.
