Growing up in Shanghai's wet market was a valuable experience for me, as I was fortunate enough to be surrounded by these incredible and determined women. These women are vital to the city's sustainable food system. They are the shining stars that illuminate the market and keep it thriving.
– Xiaoyan Kong

The exhibition will be shown at Stadshallen in Lund during the Sustainability week, 17-22 of April.

Presenting time: 

17 April, 17:30-18:30 (Opening) 

About the project:

Xiaoyan captured this collection of photos in 2021 to pay tribute to the women who grew up alongside her in the wet market. In many Chinese cities, including Shanghai, wet markets play a crucial role in promoting sustainable food systems. However, with the rise of urbanization and digitalization, these markets are gradually being replaced by supermarkets and online shopping. The wet market where Xiaoyan spent her childhood was demolished in 2017, forcing the migrant workers who had worked there for over two decades to demoblize without any compensation. Amidst the ongoing debate about food supply and quality in the new supply system, Xiaoyan's attention lies on the future of these migrant workers -  where could they go from here? Despite society's unfair treatment towards them, they remain optimistic about life. The ignored should be seen.

About the photographer Xiaoyan Kong: 

Raised in a wet market in Shanghai and educated across Asia, Europe, and Africa, I have always been fascinated by the complex relationship between humans and their environment. After completing my undergraduate degree, I spent a year in a Tibetan village studying ecological nature and rural revitalization. Today, I am pursuing a Master's in Environmental Studies and Sustainability at Lund University in Sweden, where I continue to explore the intersections of social and environmental issues. 

This event is part of Sustainability Week 2023, an annual event organised in collaboration between Lund University and Lund Municipality. This year, over 60 lectures, guided tours, exhibitions, and more are arranged.
For more information about the programme, visit hallbarhet.lu.se