158A Unweaving

Jinghui Li

Unweaving (2023)
High quality inkjet-printed by by Pro Lab, 40x40cm

This work deploys film to explore the triangulation of collective memory, community, and materiality in traditional hairdressing culture, which showcases the intertwining connections of families and communities tied to barbershops. The barbershop acts not only as a nexus of everyday livelihood but also as a reflection of politics, economy, and local culture. The photographs trace the experience and memory of street barbershops to articulate a cultural archaeology of traditional Cantonese hairdressing.

Artist Statement 

LI Jinghui (aka @komorebi_filmfoto) is a street photographer working in Hong Kong and mainland China. Drawing inspiration from nostalgic and analog photography, he captures everyday life and sentimental street scenes in urban settings. His distinctive composition and color style have earned his street photography significant social media recognition.

His series "Unweaving" (2023), exhibited at the After Sunset Festival at the Fringe Club, celebrates traditional Cantonese barbershops and hair salons across Hong Kong and Southern China. His latest work, "Marry the Night" (2024), which explores queer nightlife and its temporality in Hong Kong, was shortlisted for the Colours of Humanity Arts Prize 2024. His work is currently featured in WeSA 2024 at Museum Mut in Seoul. "Don't Mind Me," his debut photo book designed by VERY ORDINARY AND, launched at both BOOKED: Hong Kong Art Book Fair 2024 and Taipei Art Book Fair 2024.