I arrived in Newfoundland from China in the summer of 2018 as an international student pursuing a PhD in folklore at Memorial University. Alongside my studies, I discovered a passion for photography, which I view as a form of living folklore.
Before coming to Newfoundland, I casually photographed everyday subjects with a basic camera. However, the breathtaking landscapes of Newfoundland inspired me to take photography more seriously.
I purchased my first professional DSLR camera in 2018 and began focusing on landscape photography.
To my surprise, my work quickly gained recognition. In 2020, I received several awards, including twelve Honorable Mentions in the International Photography Awards, one of the most prestigious competitions worldwide. My photos of Elliston and Cabot Tower were also published in Canadian Wildlife magazine and the National Trust for Canada’s magazine, Locale, respectively.
These achievements have allowed me to showcase Newfoundland’s beauty on an international stage, something I’m incredibly proud of.
I’m also grateful for the friendships I’ve formed here, particularly with Robert Tilley, a 73-year-old Newfoundlander who has accompanied me on many photography trips. His presence has enriched my work and deepened my connection to the province.
As I’ve traveled throughout Newfoundland, I’ve come to see the connection between my folklore studies and photography. The daily lives of Newfoundlanders, their customs, and the historic sites I photograph all represent living folklore. My goal is to capture the soul of these places and share their stories through my lens.
Newfoundland has become both my home and my inspiration. I dream of continuing to explore and photograph its beauty for years to come.
