Behind Glory: A Stirring Photo Documentary by Lampo Leong

Unveiling the Hidden Cost of Industrialization through Abstract Imagery

Behind Glory is a unique exploration of Wugang, the Wuhan Iron & Steel Co. This state-owned factory, built in 1958 with Russian support, was once a symbol of China's industrialization and modernization. Today, it stands as a testament to the environmental damage such progress can inflict. Through his lens, Leong captures the factory's heavily polluted campus, revealing the somber reality behind the glory of economic prosperity.

Leong's inspiration stems from contemporary artists like Anselm Kiefer and Sally Mann. His images, both abstract and lyrical, evoke a sense of melancholy, highlighting the urgent need for a cleaner, healthier working and living environment. This community project is not just a documentary, but a call to action, urging viewers to consider the environmental impact of industrial growth.

Despite the challenges of gaining access to the state-owned factory and the poor conditions on-site, Leong managed to create a compelling series using a Canon 5DSR with an EF24-70mm f/2.8L II USM lens. The resulting images vary in dimension, each one a unique testament to the factory's environmental impact.

The Behind Glory series has been recognized for its creative ingenuity and resourcefulness, earning a Bronze in the A' Photography and Photo Manipulation Design Award in 2020. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate exceptional artistry and technical skill, contributing to improvements in quality of life and making the world a better place.

In conclusion, Behind Glory is more than a photo documentary. It is a powerful statement about the environmental cost of industrialization. Through his evocative images, Lampo Leong invites viewers to reflect on the need for sustainable practices in our pursuit of economic prosperity. As we marvel at the abstract beauty of his work, we are also reminded of the urgent need for environmental health and pollution control.