Would you kindly describe your experience working on this project?
LGBT LOVE, FREEDOM be Ourselves was a deeply emotional and inspiring journey that profoundly shaped the direction of my artistic career. Filmed in Paris, the project allowed me to connect sincerely with members of the LGBTQ community—from a transgender woman proudly walking the streets, to two women in love gazing at each other tenderly, to a lesbian activist passionately engaged in the movement. The project has two main components:
1. Creating artistic photographic portraits of three LGBTQ participants;
2. Documenting their most heartfelt emotions and stories through in-depth interviews.
I am truly grateful for their trust and participation, which allowed the work to convey authentic and profound emotions. Receiving recognition and awards from international film festivals has been a powerful affirmation and encouragement.
Artistically, I blended the raw truth of documentary with the poetic language of visual art—not only telling their stories but also capturing the spirit of freedom, love, and resilience.
Why did you decide on this specific content?
As a lesbian, I actively participated in lesbian community activities while growing up in Hong Kong. Later, I pursued photography studies in the UK and have been living in Paris, France, since 2010. These 15 years of cross-cultural living have given me a personal understanding of how Eastern and Western societies view and value LGBTQ people differently. Today, some countries have legislated to protect the equal rights of LGBTQ individuals—for example, France legalized same-sex marriage in 2013 and has comprehensive anti-discrimination laws. Many countries in Europe, as well as the United States, Canada, and in Asia, Taiwan, have similar legal protections. Yet, regardless of East or West, many LGBTQ friends still face rejection from their families and society, along with significant pressures and challenges in daily life. I wanted this documentary to present their reality—moments of vulnerability in the face of hardship, but also moments of pride in their identity. My aim is for LGBTQ people around the world to feel a sense of connection and understanding, and for those unfamiliar with the
community to gain greater awareness and empathy, reducing prejudice. I envision a more harmonious world, and I believe art is a powerful way to open dialogue and inspire new perspectives on identity, freedom, and love.
Give us more information about yourself and your career path.
I am an artist, photographer, and emerging international filmmaker from Hong Kong, now based in Paris. My creative journey began in fine art photography, focusing on portraits and landscapes, and I have held exhibitions in both Hong Kong and Paris exploring human emotions and cultural identity. Over time, I expanded into documentary filmmaking, merging visual storytelling with my passion for humanity, love, philosophy, and social issues. I am honored that my work has been selected and awarded at international film festivals across the Americas, Europe, and Asia.
Would you mind giving us a sneak peek at some of your next projects in this field?
I am currently developing and working on several projects:
Documentary—Whispers of Dream Chasers: Featuring and interviewing women artists around the world, exploring their dreams, journeys, and inner worlds, and continuing the spirit of LGBT LOVE and FREEDOM to be Ourselves.
AI Animated Film Series—A collaboration with a PhD in soul studies, using AI to create animation exploring themes such as soul journeys, past lives, and personal growth.
Multimedia Exhibition—Combining film, photography, and interactive installations to create an immersive cross-media art experience.
What have been some of the most challenging positions you have held in your professional life, and what challenges did you face along the way?
Independent filmmaking demands immense perseverance. Limited funding, small crews, and sensitive subject matter are constant challenges. Filming LGBTQ participants in public spaces, as well as creating intimate artistic photographs and videos, requires balancing trust with privacy protection. I overcame these challenges by building genuine relationships with participants, fully committing to the creative process, and leveraging support from my international artistic network.
How do you feel about LGBT people around the world?
No matter where they live, LGBTQ people share the same desire—to be true to themselves and to love freely. While acceptance levels vary across cultures, the core of our humanity is the same. Through art, I hope to build bridges that cross cultural and geographic boundaries, fostering understanding and respect among people.
You are from Hong Kong and then studied from London; how is the state of the film industry there right now? Which movie—the commercial or the art house—did you prefer?
Hong Kong’s film industry is vibrant, with a strong commercial presence but also many outstanding films exploring human nature, emotions, and life’s deeper questions. My favorite Hong Kong director is Wong Kar-wai. London, on the other hand, offers more freedom and diversity for art-house and independent films. I am drawn to works that combine artistic depth, emotional truth, and social significance—films that move audiences and provoke reflection.
In 2025, we will all be reliant on AI filmmaking. What do you think? Is artificial intelligence filmmaking the next big thing in filmmaking?
AI is a tool, not a replacement for the human soul. It can accelerate production, spark creativity, and open new possibilities, but the most moving stories will always be rooted in genuine human experience. I have already begun experimenting with AI in animated film creation and will continue to explore the integration of AI and art. I believe the future will see AI and artists working hand in hand.
What is your opinion on independent filmmakers and photographers, and how do they connect or market their films to the right distribution channels?
Independent filmmakers must balance creativity with strategy. Participating in festivals, using social media, and leveraging platforms such as FilmFreeway are essential for reaching audiences. Cross-border collaboration is vital—your network is as valuable as your art. This September, I will attend an international film festival and industry summit in Canada.
where I aim to expand my industry connections and explore new opportunities.
To conclude, once again, many thanks, and what message would you like to share with the next generation regarding your love of guidance?
Create with honesty. Live with courage. Make sure your voice is seen and heard. Art can expand horizons, awaken the unknown, and guide hearts toward love and beauty. When hearts change, the world can truly become a better place.
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