British Seaside Towns

In this ongoing project, I aim to capture the authenticity and simplicity of life, as well as the intimate connections we form with these coastal communities, through the eyes of an outsider.

As an individual of Chinese descent and an outsider to these towns, I bring a unique perspective and deep fascination with the British seaside. During my time studying and living in the UK, I am deeply influenced by the local culture and ethos. Seeking respite from the burdensome anxieties that accompany urban living, I frequently embark on solitary journeys to these coastal towns, where I am a complete stranger. Initially, everything appears hazy and indistinct, but as time unfolds, I encounter different people and places, and clarity gradually emerges.

Many Britons’ childhood memories are tied to these towns, as an observer with a Chinese heritage and an enduring fascination with the seaside, I am drawn to find the essence of these places and the way they evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder. Through the delicate portrait I carved out in these towns, I invite viewers to see them as I do and appreciate the simple yet profound truth of life that they offer.

This project transcends cultural and geographic boundaries, bridging the gap between observer and subject. By capturing the authentic essence of these communities, the hope is to prompt reflection, nostalgia, and wonder, allowing viewers to rekindle their own personal connections to these timeless coastal landscapes.