Pastor Stanley Fung's series of photography artwork are based on the main theme: disseminating the fragrance of the Gospel through art. His photographic work encapsulates a rich reservoir of diverse elements including faith, culture and art, thus altogether bringing forth the main theme of the Gospel message. This combination of intriguing themes definitely defines the most unique charm found in Fung's photographic work " Dust Icon".
Fung has once described himself as such," I used to be a coward within my spirit, constantly bothered by my own sinful nature, stubbornness and low self-esteem. Yet, I was given tremendous mercy from the mighty Lord. Since then, I decided to commit my life to Jesus and to be his faithful servant. Apart from serving the Lord and people around me, I also like to devote myself to my hobbies, which are basically art and photography. These two hobbies allow me to express my view of life and death matters in the light of my faith as well as pointing out critically people's excessive infatuation with earthly pursuits."
An art commenter from mainland China, Tan Qinru, who embraces the same faith as Fung, once said," As Fung and his entire family have devoted themselves in their church ministry, their family end up living in a very humble condition. Yet, there seems to be so much spiritual richness, joy and contentment oozing out from Fung's artistic works. For fellow Christians, there is absolutely no misalignment between Fung's church ministry and his artistic expression through photography. For fellow artists, Fung's work is full of vivid expressions of life and discussion of one's existence. For his art work appreciators , Fung's exhibition is a showcase of the Gospel, intriguing viewers to ponder upon the essence of faith and the crucial reason for such spiritual pursuit.
"Dust Icon" is a series of portraits photographed by Fung after he becomes a pastor. He initially asks his church members to be his models for the photoshoot. Themes normally revolves around well-known biblical characters such as Mary, Daniel etc. Some crucial biblical episodes such as lamp stands of 10 virgins and portraits of some less well-known biblical characters have also been included in his art work.
His photographic work carries an intense and solemn tone as expressed through black and white filters. His models, though more than ordinary, remind us of fellow brothers and sisters around us. Though ordinary or even quiet in their lives, the sincerity and openness of their souls pouring forth from their expressions always never fail to strike the core of audience's hearts.
The most intriguing part of his artwork is the expression of the unique charm of various biblical characters transcending time, space and cultural boundaries. Yet, the effect of representation is perfectly fitting despite how it is expressed through these few indigenous mainland models. Christian Faith itself indeed transcends all cultural, time and spacial boundaries.
The nature and desires of human souls always remain constant in spite of rapidly changing technology and societal climates. As such, pursuit of faith and mindful reflection on spirits within enable us to travel across space and time while at the same time, maintain the significant value of culture and art and keep them fresh.
Below is some of his art:
Check Here For More Arts of Stanley Fung
Translated by: Maggie Li
