The Mid-Autumn Festival, a time-honored celebration marked by mooncakes and tales of the jade rabbit, takes on a new dimension through the lens of Beijing-based photographer Ma Ye. In the quiet suburbs of the Chinese mainland’s capital, Ma Ye transforms everyday food items into breathtaking landscapes, reimagining the essence of this beloved festival.
Known for his mastery of light and shadow, Ma Ye’s latest project presents the Mid-Autumn Festival in a series of stunning food photographs that blur the lines between reality and imagination. By arranging simple ingredients, he creates nature-inspired tableaux that evoke the festival’s themes of reunion and reflection under the September full moon.
“I wanted to capture the spirit of the festival in a way that resonates with both young and old,” Ma Ye explains. “Food is central to our culture, and by using it artistically, we can connect with traditions in a fresh and engaging manner.”
Our host, Julian Waghann, delved into Ma Ye’s creative process, witnessing firsthand how ordinary items like grains of rice and slices of fruit become mountains and moonscapes under his artistic direction. The result is a collection of images that invite viewers to see the Mid-Autumn Festival through a new, enchanting perspective.
This innovative approach not only celebrates Chinese heritage but also bridges cultural gaps, inviting a global audience to appreciate the festival’s beauty. As the full moon rises this September, Ma Ye’s art reminds us of the enduring power of creativity to renew traditions and bring people together.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
