The "The Light of North and South" China-Uruguay photography art exchange exhibition was launched at the Dunhuang International Convention and Exhibition Center on Sept 19.

Coinciding with the 65th anniversary of the establishment of parliamentary friendship between China and Uruguay and the 36th anniversary of diplomatic relations, the exhibition, part of the 7th Silk Road (Dunhuang) International Cultural Expo, showcases more than 70 captivating works by Marcelo Cattani and Ma Jian.  

The "The Light of North and South" China-Uruguay photography art exchange exhibition in Dunhuang, Gansu province [Photo by Feng Lekai]

The work of Uruguayan photographer Cattani captures the landscapes, people and culture of Uruguay, while Chinese photographer Ma documents China and various countries along the Silk Road. Through their lenses, the artists express a shared fascination with nature, humanity and the relationship between people and their environments.

One of the key themes in Cattani's work is his enduring interest in horses, a symbol of freedom, which is also depicted on Uruguay's national crest. His photographs capture horsemen riding across the landscape, herds migrating across the horizon and the energy conveyed by horses rearing and galloping. The images offer a powerful exploration of the bond between horses and their environment.

The "The Light of North and South" China-Uruguay photography art exchange exhibition in Dunhuang, Gansu province [Photo by Feng Lekai]

In the adjoining gallery, Ma's works focus on diverse subjects, including the customs, landscapes, historical heritage and natural beauty of regions such as Gansu, Qinghai, Xinjiang, as well as other countries along the Silk Road. His photographs provide an intimate look into the cultural and natural richness of these areas.

The exhibition highlights the unique landscapes at opposite ends of the globe and expresses both photographers' deep affection for every inch of their respective homelands.