Der Greif X MPB: Behind the Image with Xiangqi Yin

Der Greif in partnership with MPB presents Xiangqi Yin, Guest Room Scholarship winner

Der Greif and MPB introduce Xiangqi Yin, who received our Guest Room scholarship from Ruben Lundgren & Yining He, curators of our “Domestic Miracle” Guest Room. Her selected image from the series “Power of Mobility” gives room to wonder about time and memory and their impact on the everyday. “Time is like running water washing over everything, changing everything, and shaping everything at the same time,” states Yin.

This format is brought to you in partnership with MPB, the largest global platform to buy, sell and trade used photo and video gear.

Der Greif: Can you tell us the story behind your work selected for Guest Room?

When I saw that the theme of the Guest Room featuring Ruben Lundgren and Yining He was about time, I felt very excited. The theme of time is a central part of my daily creative process and thoughts. I think this is an opportunity for me to share my work with more people and perhaps gain recognition, which is very important to me.

Der Greif: Can you expand on the themes that specifically your photographic work explores?

I believe that time carries a subtle yet powerful force that is often hard to perceive. It flows through our lives like water, wearing away at our memories like the wind. This leaves me feeling confused about the nature of reality—was the past truly real, and do I really exist? My work explores these feelings, capturing the essence of how time affects our lives and memories. Through my photographs, I aim to convey this complexity.

Der Greif: What is the biggest challenge you have faced in photography?

Perhaps the biggest problem I've encountered in my photographic endeavors is the occasional questioning of my own worth. I often grapple with doubts about whether my work truly holds value. This kind of reflection can be quite painful, but I believe that this struggle is also a driving force for my growth and improvement.

Der Greif: Who are some photographers that inspire your work?

I find myself looking at many images online every day. I often seek pictures that match my own aesthetic, which may create an information cocoon around me. Because of this, it’s hard to identify specific photographers who have influenced me. Instead, my inspiration comes from the visual experiences I encounter daily rather than from individual artists.

Der Greif: What are you working on right now?

I am working on a project that explores how individuals can preserve their ability to think independently in the face of power or authority. I am in the process of gathering research and documents to support my thoughts, focusing mainly on social psychology topics. I am still reflecting on this project, and the process is always accompanied by both challenges and joy.

Der Greif: What kind of gear do you work with?

I work with a Pentax 645 medium format film camera . Unfortunately, just a couple of days ago, it broke while I was shooting. Because of this, I hope to use this Guest Room scholarship to purchase a new camera.

Der Greif: What was the first camera you ever used?

The first camera I ever received was a film camera, though I can't quite remember the specific model. I got it when I was around ten years old. Normal style: What stands out to me is that the first photo I took with it was a family portrait during the New Year celebrations. That moment has left a lasting impression on me and sparked my love for photography.

Der Greif: What do you look for/value in your gear today? Any thoughts on used gear?

I see cameras as tools for my creativity, so what matters most is that they meet my creative needs. So far my work has primarily been completed with film cameras, which is why I often rely on used gear to find the cameras I want.

Der Greif: Can you tell us what this scholarship means for you?

This scholarship means a great deal of support and encouragement for me. It not only provides financial assistance for my work but, more importantly, it makes me feel that my efforts and talent are recognized. This gives me confidence in my creations and helps me realize that my work has value, which is very important to me. At the same time, it also opens up more opportunities for my future artistic endeavors.