Parks are rebellious

In the realm of public spaces, parks stand apart from places like shopping malls and cinemas for a particular reason, which, Liu believes, lies in the anti-consumerist essence of parks.

"Many people mistakenly suppose that they have to spend money to enjoy their leisure time, but parks offer a non-consumerist environment where one can find joy without opening their wallets," she explained.

She also sees parks as havens of equality, where people from all walks of life, regardless of wealth, can equally enjoy beautiful experiences.

In her "In the Park" project, Liu highlights the human ecological significance of parks. "Parks themselves are man-made landscapes, and it is the presence of people within them that gives these spaces meaning. This is why I do not accept purely scenic photos," she said.

"Whether it's people strolling, boating, reading under the trees, or simply lost in thought on a bench, this project seeks to observe how individuals, amid the fast-paced urban life, find solace in these 'urban oases'."

For Cheng, parks are a sanctuary from the mundane routines of daily life, brimming with unexpected possibilities. She has come across many European parks through posts in her Douban group, some even featuring graveyards.

"They offer me a fresh outlook on parks, prompting me to ponder the philosophical questions of life and death," she said.

"We modern people spend too much time indoors, trapped in repetitive work routines. Even our social outings with friends follow a predictable pattern: dining, shopping, and then catching a movie. Yet, in a park, you can do so much more — it's liberating and full of creativity."