The vibrant essence of Chinese culture takes center stage at Christie’s King Street in London, where the photography exhibition ‘Culture Identified’ is captivating audiences. Curated from the Global SinoPhoto Awards (GSPA) collection spanning 2020–2024, this remarkable showcase offers a stunning array of global perspectives on Chinese culture. The exhibition runs until 31 January, perfectly aligning with Chinese New Year celebrations.
A Global Lens on Chinese Culture
This year marks the fifth anniversary of the Global SinoPhoto Awards, a platform that has united photographers from over 40 countries since its inception in 2020. Over the years, it has become a powerful medium to explore the intricate layers of Chinese culture through the eyes of diverse creatives.
Featuring 62 standout images from 32 photographers, the exhibition dives into themes of personal connection, ancestral heritage, and cultural fascination. It’s not just an artistic showcase—it’s a dialogue that bridges continents, connecting people through shared appreciation and understanding of Chinese culture.
Martin Parr’s Take on Culture and Identity
The VIP opening event on 15 January featured a keynote speech by renowned British photographer Martin Parr. Parr’s address highlighted photography’s unique ability to uncover subtle yet profound cultural nuances.
“The Global SinoPhoto Awards’ open and inclusive ethos allows photographers worldwide to reveal the intricacies of Chinese culture,” Parr remarked. His words resonated with the exhibition’s goal of transcending boundaries, celebrating talent, and uniting communities.
The People’s Award: A First for the GSPA
Adding to the excitement, 2025 introduces a People’s Award for the first time. Visitors to Christie’s can now actively participate by voting for their favorite photograph. This democratic touch invites viewers to engage with the works on a personal level, deepening their connection to the exhibition’s themes.
Inspired by a Legacy of Unity
The Global SinoPhoto Awards’ founders, Yintong Betser and Lynne Bryant, drew inspiration from the iconic 1955 exhibition ‘The Family of Man’, curated by Edward Steichen at MoMA. That historic showcase celebrated universal human experiences through powerful imagery, and the GSPA carries this legacy forward by shining a light on Chinese culture’s global resonance.
Curator Sebah Chaudhry has masterfully arranged the exhibition to tell a story—each photograph offering a unique lens on identity, culture, and belonging.
Why You Should Visit
Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a culture lover, or someone looking for a unique way to mark Chinese New Year, this exhibition promises to be unforgettable. The artworks go beyond aesthetics, inviting visitors to explore deep personal stories and universal themes.
It’s not just about the images—it’s about the shared human experience they capture.
