China through a lens (From Penarth Times)

China through a lens

PENARTH is staging a unique exhibition of work by Welsh photo-journalist Rhodri Jones, at The Turner House Gallery up until October 20.

It is entitled 'Made In China', and includes an array of photographs taken during his travels in China, over the past seven years.

The exhibition focuses on the rapid social changes that have taken place in China over the past 25 years, and their effect on the individual.

Rhodri said: "In the West, we see the Chinese as a great mass of people, as there are so many of them; we forget them as individuals."

He also looks at the minority cultures in China as part of his display. He said: "There are fifty-six different nationalities officially recognised by the Chinese authorities." His images examine the effect on individuals from these national minorities.

He admits that he is part of a cultural minority, being Welsh, although he is based permanently in Italy, where he lives with his partner.

Rhodri, 38, has spent much of his life travelling, and has spent time in Africa, America, China and Eastern Europe.

He has recently had a book published, which is also entitled Made In China, which is available to purchase at the exhibition.

He approached the National Museums & Galleries of Wales, as he was particularly interested in showing his work in Wales. He added: "I wanted to give youngsters an opportunity to see a local person's work at international level."

Rhodri still has Welsh connections, as his parents live in North Wales, where he returns every year for a week or two. He is also fluent in six languages, including Welsh.

He explained that he does undertake a lot of contract work, but his real passion is his own personal work, which he can now devote more time to.

In three weeks, he will be flying out to South America, but another Welsh project is scheduled for 2005.