About this project

China is a country of evolving cultural legacies and economic destinies. Weaved within this tapestry of modernization are the threads of Christianity and its fluctuating influence. One of the most unique examples of this Western religion takes place in a historic coastal city that has long been overshadowed.

The Chinese city of Dalian has gone by many names in the past one hundred years. Each title was in preference to the language used by the colonial society or occupation force that administrated the city, from Great Britain to Russia to Japan to the Soviet Union, and then finally native China. As a military port and commercial hub, Dalian was a strategic location in three foreign wars and the national civil war.

From its formal foundation in 1898, Dalian was a center for cultural exchanges. Its Christian community thrived for generations, with ties to Europe, America, and Japan. During the years of social turmoil within China, churches where closed and their congregations scattered. Yet that spiritual faith remained. These centers for worship have been restored and their congregations attract growing numbers of Chinese Christians. Dalian is also one of the few cities in China to have preserved Christian cemeteries for foreigners.

Most of these historical records and pictures have been lost, and what survives exists with little knowledge or attention. Therefore, I want to create a definitive reference source of materials that is both educational and personal.
GOAL OF THE PROJECT

The process of modernization in China is not smooth and progressive. While great strides have been made, it remains a fragile condition. As an American who has lived in China for over seven years, I have witnessed some incredible changes. I am happy for the progress, yet mindful of many the difficulties yet to overcome. This photobook has no agenda to either celebrate or criticise anything about China, its culture, or government. As a former newscaster for Chinese television, author, and photographer, I simply want to present a visual record to promote mutual understanding and expand awareness. I have found that foreigners visiting Dalian often make a more personal connection to the city and culture when introduced to its Christian foundations.

By making a book about Christianity in the historical context of Dalian, it is my hope to provide both a spiritual and cultural guide. It is also an effort to tell the little known story of Dalian on an international level, beyond the usually economic investment opportunities. The main medium of the book will be photography, allowing the images to stand on their own as snapshots in time. A historical narrative will be added to fill in the supportive details.

Religion and history, by their very nature, can be sensitive issues. As a foreigner, I have to abide by the rules of my host country. And there is a personal risk involved in conducting any research. This funding would allow me take time away from work which supports my life in China so I can dedicate myself to the book. It will also cover the cost of book design and production, and fees to obtain special permits for restricted research.

Production for this photographic book will be done in China, in English, with an estimated release for late 2010. Should there be any legal entanglements that preempt or prevent this, a print on demand (POD) version will be produced in America for distribution on amazon.com.

In addition to rare documents, antique maps, vintage pictures, modern images, and written historical details, the book will also include first-hand accounts from two former colonists. Kazuko Kuramoto is the author of Manchurian Legacy: Memoirs of a Japanese Colonist and Tatiana Erohina, grand-daughter of the priest who built the original Russian Orthodox Church in Dalian. Their religious experience and background in this city from 1927 to 1955 offers a rare insight.
Supporting This Project (What You Get)

I want to offer tangible rewards as thanks for all my backers, but I also have to balance that against international shipping costs (since I am living in China) and dealing with the postal inspectors here. Therefore most of my rewards are digital in form and delivery, in an effort to keep the project costs to a minimum, yet still offer my sincere appreciation with a valuable gift.


Music credit: Odd Joy from Solo Piano 7 is used with permission © Torley Wong.