Traces

Filmed in 2005, "Traces" captures the final remnants of political prisoners who suffered in labor camps, where many perished due to hunger. Wang Bing's use of 35mm black and white film, a gift from artist Yang Fudong, adds a stark visual quality to the film, enhancing its themes of loss and memory.

The documentary features no sound, allowing the visuals of bones, clothing, and footsteps to convey the weight of history and the impact of political repression. This approach reflects Wang Bing's broader interest in historical narratives and the personal stories behind collective trauma.

Despite being filmed nearly a decade earlier, "Traces" was not edited until 2014, when it was first presented at the Centre Pompidou. This delayed release adds a layer of significance to the film, allowing viewers to engage with its themes in a contemporary context.