I,ma,ge, Backups, Nobody Knows

Photo book “I,ma,ge, Backups, Nobody Knows” by Xiaopeng Yuan, published by commune Press, features a collection of snapshots taken by this Shanghai-based photographer during his travels through various cities in Japan between 2023 and 2025. “I,ma,ge, Backups” is Xiaopeng Yuan’s ongoing archival project, initiated as a personal safeguard against digital image loss. Nobody Knows, a folder within this archive, suggests a quiet anonymity—none of the scenes knew they were being captured. Taken during Yuan’s travels in Japan, the series reflects a silent, observational practice shaped by linguistic barriers and a sense of detachment. Mixed was made possible by the Nordic Photobook Award, presented by Fotogalleriet Oslo.