This collection documents an unexpected journey during my travels, in a place called Norgris Town, where I spent the final days of winter. The Daltons, who have three children, graciously took me in. However, it was the peculiar pre-dinner prayer that piqued my curiosity. After expressing gratitude for trees, crops, and all animals, people would conclude it with a phrase –
“The world lies within the belly of a giant serpent.”

Retired teacher Patrick shared with me the town’s history. Back in the 1990s, a meteorite fell in Norgris, bearing scales like a snake. Children who touched it were believed to be protected from illness and danger. Patrick strongly believed that the origin of the universe followed a similar pattern: dust coalesced into the shape of a serpent, then curled up to form planets, giving birth to life and civilizations.

The priest in Norgris would conduct a ceremony before spring arrived, and during those days, supernatural occurrences blurred the lines of my memory. These included seeing indistinct faces outside my window, experiencing intense physical pain, and dreaming of being covered in scales from head to toe.

I no longer have the opportunity to return to Norgris, or perhaps Norgris does not exist. Within the belly of the giant serpent is a digestive fluid. For a certain period, I see the world enclosed, immersed within unquestionable walls.

Published in 2023
22.5 x 30.5 cm
54 pages

Showcased as part of Jimei x Arles: Travelling Photobook Showcase at the 9th SIPF Photobook Showcase

Artist Biography:

Chen Chuanduan (born 1994), utilizes photography and charting as his mediums, focusing on the connection between humans and nature as well as the calls within modern life. He is fascinated by both natural science and supernatural phenomena, with a particular penchant for the imaginary and fictional elements.

He has independently published photography books titled “Restrained Orders”, “Belly of The Giant Serpent”, and “Restorative Topophilia”. Chen Chuanduan’s work was recognized among the “TOP20·2019 Emerging Contemporary Chinese Photographers.” He has also won the “2024 Three Shadows Photography Award (TSPA)”. Moreover, he has held solo exhibitions, including “Voice in the Wilderness,” “Rootless Hymn,” “This Land Heals Me,” and “Restrained Orders.”

Currently, he works as a creative individual/artist and resides in China, nurturing two cats.