As the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region prepares to celebrate its 70th anniversary in 2025, local photographer Parhat Arkin is redefining how the world sees this culturally rich corner of northwest China. Through his extreme sports photography and commercial collaborations with global brands like Arc'teryx and Apple, Arkin transforms snow-capped mountains and vibrant cultural traditions into visual narratives that transcend borders.
Born and raised in Xinjiang, Arkin credits his inspiration to childhood memories of Twelve Muqam performances and intricate carpet patterns woven by multiethnic communities. For 11 years, he's balanced adrenaline-fueled shoots on icy peaks with intimate portraits of daily life, capturing what he calls "the harmony of ancient traditions and modern ambition."
His upcoming projects aim to showcase Xinjiang's evolving identity through time-lapse photography and documentary series. "Every frame tells a story of shared progress," Arkin notes, highlighting how Uygur, Kazakh, and Kirgiz communities preserve cultural heritage while embracing new opportunities.
