by Alexandra Ivancenco Mas
Some photographers freeze moments, others transform them into living paintings. This is the case of Fan Li, a photographic artist based in Saint-Cloud, France, whose approach is deeply inspired by Impressionism.
Born in Beijing, Fan Li was introduced to visual arts at an early age by his father, a professional photojournalist. This early exposure ignited his passion for capturing the world through a lens. When he moved to Paris in 2004, he immersed himself in the city’s rich artistic heritage, visiting exhibitions and museums that gradually shaped his aesthetic sensibility. However, it was in 2017 that he truly fell in love with Impressionism, a discovery that transformed his approach to photography.
“From that moment, I stopped seeing photography as a simple tool for faithfully representing reality. My camera became a brush, allowing me to ‘paint’ my images with light and movement.”
Capturing the Essence of a Moment
Unlike traditional digital photography, Fan Li’s creative process involves minimal post-processing. Each image takes form at the moment of capture, allowing him to convey emotion and atmosphere beyond simple representation.
His acclaimed work, “Les Nénuphars : Effet du Soleil”, exemplifies this approach, portraying the delicate interplay of light and nature. Another notable piece, “La Mer avant la Tempête”, sold during the exhibition at the Grand Palais, demonstrates his ability to encapsulate the raw energy and fleeting beauty of an instant. Being selected by the Salon des Artistes Français to exhibit at the Grand Palais was a defining moment in his career.
“It was a great honor to showcase my work in such an emblematic place, surrounded by exceptional artists and remarkable works. This experience will remain unforgettable.”
Fan Li has participated in numerous prestigious exhibitions. His work has gained international recognition, winning awards in various competitions like FAPA and the Photo Magazine. He can be found in the very popular YellowKorner. His photographs invite viewers to experience the world through a lens that melds reality with impressionistic artistry, offering a fresh perspective on contemporary photography.
Discover More
For a deeper insight into Fan Li’s artistic vision and to view his portfolio, visit his official website: fanli.photos
Follow his work on Instagram: instagram.com/fanli.photos
His artworks are also available on The Art Cycle