By tf-lawyer.com Recently, the Seventh Silk Road (Dunhuang) International Cultural Expo was held in Dunhuang, Gansu Province, featuring the “North and South Light: China-Uruguay Photography Art Exchange Exhibition.” This exhibition highlights the works of Chinese photographer Ma Jian and Uruguayan photographer Marcelo Cattani, focusing on their mutual admiration for nature and humanity.
To delve into the significance of this collaboration, I had the opportunity to speak with Marcelo Cattani. Here’s a glimpse of our conversation.
**Reporter:** Can you share some of the significant works in this exhibition and explain the importance of collaboration between photographers from China and Uruguay?
**Marcelo Cattani:** In this exhibition, we feature a selection from my photography series “Uruguay: A Great Small Country.” The goal is to showcase the life, culture, and unique traits of the Uruguayan people.
I think this collaboration with Chinese photographers is a fantastic idea. It’s not a competition; instead, it’s about complementing and enriching one another. Uruguay has much to learn from China’s rich, ancient culture, and conversely, I believe our Chinese friends can gain insights into Uruguay’s vibrant and youthful culture. This exhibition helps us foster exchange and learning between our nations.
Images are powerful tools that can break down language barriers. They express emotions and ideas, often conveying deeper meanings than what is immediately apparent. I hope the audience will appreciate the beauty of Uruguay’s landscapes while gaining a richer understanding of our culture and people.
**Reporter:** You have an extensive photography career spanning nearly 40 years. What insights have you gathered about China through your lens?
**Marcelo Cattani:** I’ve had the chance to visit cities like Beijing, Xi’an, Chongqing, Yichang, and Shanghai, capturing over 15,000 photos along the way. Our trips were more than just sightseeing; they were about immersing ourselves in local customs and the everyday lives of the Chinese people. I’m excited to return and explore even more cities.
In Beijing, we showcased our work at the Uruguayan Art Center and photographed iconic landmarks. We were particularly struck by the Terracotta Army in Xi’an and the modern vibrance of Chongqing. Yichang’s natural beauty and its connection to the Yangtze River were breathtaking, and Shanghai’s stunning skyline highlighted its growth as a cosmopolitan hub.
There’s still so much authentic documentation to pursue. Dunhuang, a significant point on the Silk Road, fascinates me, and I look forward to capturing its essence through my lens.
**Reporter:** In July, you held a personal photography exhibition in Beijing. What aspects of Uruguay did you aim to highlight for Chinese audiences? How does the perspective in Chinese writer Yu Xi’s photo-illustrated work “Uruguay: Nature Supreme” align with your vision of Uruguay?
**Marcelo Cattani:** The Beijing exhibition met my expectations and aimed to showcase how we view our country and how we want to present ourselves to the world. One standout image features a rural person and a horse drinking from the same water source, illustrating our commitment to environmental stewardship. Even though water is abundant, horses are selective about their drinking spots. In Uruguay, it’s remarkable how people and horses can drink freely from any waterway.
Yu Xi’s work also captures Uruguay’s natural beauty, aligning with the “nature supreme” theme that reflects our pride in our unspoiled environment. I’m aware that China is making strides in enhancing its environmental conditions and utilizing renewable energy. I believe Uruguay’s stunning landscapes leave a lasting impression, and I plan to publish a book showcasing my visual interpretation of China soon.
**Reporter:** A sculpture titled “Seeking the Way,” created by Chinese sculptor Wu Weishan, was unveiled in Montevideo in May, symbolizing friendship between our countries. What philosophies from this piece resonate with you during your time in China?
**Marcelo Cattani:** I was present for the inauguration of “Seeking the Way” in Montevideo. This artwork embodies Chinese spirit and culture, symbolizing a dialogue between Confucius and Laozi. I noticed a profound sense of unity and wisdom among the Chinese people, who seem to live by these principles.
It’s fascinating how the teachings of Confucius and Laozi are deeply woven into the fabric of everyday life in China. Often, people may not even realize they embody these humanistic philosophies. Additionally, I observed how Taoist principles manifest in their daily lives. Overall, our journey to China was incredibly enlightening.
**Reporter:** You once mentioned that “photography is a language that transcends barriers.” What steps can we take to enhance international cultural exchange and deepen connections between people through photography today?
**Marcelo Cattani:** As a photographer, I express all I feel through images, drawing inspiration not just from photography but also from literature and music. Art speaks a universal language that crosses all boundaries. Reading fuels my creativity and helps me capture the essence of observing the world.
Photography allows for a personal perspective in showcasing reality. In my workshops, I emphasize to my students that photography transcends language, serving as a global medium. In today’s world, we often communicate more through images than through words, highlighting photography’s unique role in raising awareness and evoking emotions. It’s vital to promote accurate perceptions and universal values to bridge gaps between cultures and people.
