Personal project by London photographer Kaiwei Duan. Duan was born in China and is currently studying fashion image at Central Saint Martins. Her practice stems from her experiences as a woman and her thinking about childhood, often explored through abstract and fantastic images. Recent projects use body details, touch and unconventional light to study the subtle connection between vision and senses. “Don’t Leave Me” is dedicated to Duane’s grandmother, whose strength, independence and tenderness have had a profound impact on Duane’s life until a sudden illness makes his grandmother physically and emotionally vulnerable:
“For the past five years, she has lived in fear of separation and death. This turning point has prompted me to reflect on family, life and mortality. Until she passed away last year, I have been recording her through cameras, trying to preserve our shared memory – gazing at her gave me, the feeling she gave me and the feeling she gave me, and the childhood she spent with me.”
Kaiwei Duan participated in our 2025 Boooooom Art & Photo Awards and was shortlisted for our finalists. Click here to view all our current and upcoming open calls.
