Before He Starts

Documentary

Jan 15

Written By Mike Ambs

A film by Xin Fang

After encountering a number of political incidents in China since the 1950s, Chinese artist Zhang Hongtu reveals his life experience that inspired his art.

This short film intends to explore the relationship between art and politics, and the way Zhang rediscovers his initial pulse of being an artist after a long journey.

Watch the Full Film

Edited and Directed by
Xin Fang

2nd Camera
Tianyang Cong, Chenyu Kou

Produced by
Xin Fang

Sound
Naijie Wang

Composer
KaMan Chang

Story Consultants
Ann Collins, Asako Gladsjo

Graphic Design
Easton Self, Gege Li

Appearing
Ron Stewart, Aurora Zhang, Hongtu Zhang, Miaoling Zhang, and Stella Zhang

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Q&A with Xin Fang

“I like observing people, and through the observation of each individual, I learn the story behinds them. It’s a fascinating process, and the amount of trust you will gain throughout the period. I started conducting several social field works when I was in college.”

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Born and raised in Shenzhen, Xin came to the United States to continue her bachelor degree in visual journalism and sociology at Boston University. She graduated with the Paula Rhodes Memorial Award, the highest commendation, from the School of Visual Arts in documentary filmmaking.