Chinese photographer Ren Hang dies at 29, leaving legacy of controversial nudes and international recognition

Ren Hang, the talented Chinese photographer known for his provocative art, tragically died at just 29 years old. Time magazine reported his passing on February 27, 2017. He began his photography career in 2008 while studying marketing, starting with images of his nude roommate. His work, which often depicted friends and fans in suggestive scenarios, sparked considerable controversy and faced censorship in China. Hang openly struggled with depression, sharing his thoughts through poetry on his website. Last summer, he penned a poignant line about life’s struggles, reflecting his inner turmoil. His photography gained international acclaim, and he received the Outset Exhibition Fund at the Unseen Photography Festival in September 2016. His pieces are currently displayed at Foam in Amsterdam until March 12, 2017, and Taschen is set to publish his first monograph that same month.