News Release

Documenting China: Contemporary Photography and Social Change, a compelling photo exhibition capturing the social, political and economic transformation of the world’s most populous country, opens April 28 in the Jewett Gallery at the San Francisco Main Library. The Library also presents an extensive line-up of related programs, including panel discussions, musical performances and a children’s craft workshop, that complement the exhibition.

On display through June 24, Documenting China consists of 57 captivating images ranging from raw, black-and-white pictures of stark, institutional housing to bold color shots of girls in scarlet pants. Through these images, photographers Liu Xiaodi, Jiang Jian, Zhang Xinmin, Luo Yongjin, Zhou Hai, Lu Yuanmin and Zhou Ming illuminate China’s internal struggles between urbanization and industrialism and its traditional, agrarian past.

Documenting China was developed by Bates College Museum of Art and organized for travel by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service. This exhibition has been made possible though the generous support of Crystal Cruises. Local funding is provided by the Friends of the San Francisco Public Library. Presented by the Chinese Center of the San Francisco Public Library.

Related programs:

May 2
6–7:30 p.m., Koret Auditorium, Main Library
Opening Program: Chinese Stereotypes & Diversity: What’s the Real China?
Celebrate the opening of Documenting China with a community forum exploring the Chinese diaspora. How does regional culture and immigration status affect individuals in the San Francisco Chinese community? Join the engaging discussion with community leaders following a screening of film clips from KQED’s documentary China from the Inside and My Name is Belle, which will debut on KQED in May. Panelists include Diana Pei-Wu from the National Network for Immigrant and Refugee Rights; Russell Jeung from San Francisco State University’s Asian American Studies Department; Fei Yi Chen (plus translator) from the Chinese Progressive Association; and Belle Yang, painter and author of Baba and Hannah Is My Name. The discussion will be moderated by Elaine Shen, KQED’s community engagement manager. Presented by the Library’s Chinese Center, KQED Immigration in Focus, Chinese Culture Center and Chinese Historical Society of America. Cantonese translation services provided by KQED, call (415) 553-3012 to reserve.

May 10
6–7:30 p.m., Koret Auditorium, Main Library
Contemporary Chinese and Chinese American Literature
A reading and discussion with poet Baolin Cheng; William Poy Lee, author of The Eighth Promise; Gene Luen Yang, author of American Born Chinese; Emily Wu, author of Feather in the Storm; and Anchee Min, author of The Last Empress. Moderated by Ruthanne Lum McCunn.

May 20
2-3 p.m., Koret Auditorium, Main Library
Wonders of Chinese Music: Performance and Talk by Melody of China
The musicians of the San Francisco-based Melody of China ensemble perform traditional Chinese music and introduce such instruments as the ruan (moon guitar) and the xun (clay vessel flute).

June 9
2-3 p.m., Fisher Children’s Center, Main Library
Southern China: Crafts Workshop for Children
Drop-in hands-on crafts projects for children based on traditional craft and folk art from Southern China. Younger children can make paper tiger hats, while older kids can try their hand at making paper cuts based on the Chinese Zodiac animals. Presented by the Museum of Craft and Folk Art.

June 10
2-3 p.m., Koret Auditorium, Main Library
Six Golden Flowers
Comprised of six talented young ladies specializing in the ancient Chinese stringed instrument the guzheng, the San Francisco Gu-Zheng Music Society Youth Ensemble perform classic pieces, as well as some modern compositions with advanced techniques. The group will also play an adaptation of the famed violin concerto Butterfly Lovers.

June 19
6:30 p.m., Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room, Main Library
Lonely Planet: Travel Guide to China
Carolyn Heller, author of Lonely Planet: China, presents a multimedia presentation on travel to China, giving special attention to Beijing and its surrounding areas of Northeast China and Inner Mongolia. Having traveled in China both alone and with her family, Heller has a wide range of experiences to share and tips to offer.

The exhibition and programs are free and open to the public.
For more information, please call (415) 557-4277.