The Light Between Us is a photo essay exhibition by artist Hong Huazheng, aka H, that examines the subtle yet profound tensions between prosperity and precarity in contemporary Singapore. Currently undertaking a graduate degree in Master of Sustainability here in SMU, H developed this documentary photography project in tandem with his academic research for POSC610: Development, Poverty, and Sustainability, a course which delves into the integral connection between reducing poverty and hunger, and fostering sustainable development.

H uses the photographic technique of double exposure as both method and metaphor in which two realities occupy the same visual space simultaneously: the often-hidden poverty and inequalities amidst relative wealth and prosperity. The artist hopes these images illuminate complexities that statistics alone may obscure.

Through quiet visual narratives, The Light Between Us seeks not to confront but to invite contemplation about the society we inhabit, the prosperity we witness, and the lives we too easily overlook.

Hear from jo+kapi on the ideas and process behind the exhibition 𝚊𝚗 𝚊𝚛𝚛𝚊𝚗𝚐𝚎𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝 𝚘𝚏/𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚛𝚊𝚗𝚍𝚘𝚖 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚍𝚜 and the screen-based installation 𝐄𝐧𝐳𝐲𝐦𝐞 𝟐.𝟎.