The Jianjie and Yinggehai area of Hainan's Ledong Li Autonomous County is home to a small-scale fishing industry and traditional fishing methods typical of Hainan, such as ox-cart fishing, boat dashing, and trap net fishing, all of which are still thriving today despite modern technological advances. Recently, "Living Seawards," a special photography exhibition focusing on the area's fishing villages and fishing industry, is being held at the Yingge Talang recreation station on the Ledong section of the Hainan Coastal Scenic Highway, drawing a large number of visitors from Hainan and further afield.

Displaying close to 400 selected works taken by local photographer Sun Nuo since 2009, the exhibition offers a snapshot of work and life for local fishers and salt field workers in Ledong. With his unique artistic perspective, Sun, a native of Huangliu Town in Ledong, uses the power of images to shine a light on the local salt harvesting and fishing culture.

One of the organizers of the exhibition, China Blue Sustainability Institute—the first public welfare organization in China focusing on the sustainable development of the fishing industry—has collaborated with Sun to document and disseminate Hainan's traditional fishing culture and fishing villages in line with the theme of "Bring Fish to Table, Bring Fisher Home." The institute is committed to using photographic works to provoke fresh understanding and views of the relationship between man and the sea.

The exhibition will last until October 30, providing the public with a free opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding and newfound appreciation for Hainan's unique fishing culture by seeing for themselves the changes in these villages and the lives of the fisherfolk upon whose livelihoods the villages depend.

(Photos courtesy of China Blue Sustainability Institute)