Steve McCurry: Shaolin Monks

Steve McCurry’s photographs of China offer glimpses into the country’s rich tapestry of tradition and modernity. These striking images were taken in 2004, when McCurry photographed a short series at the Shaolin Monastery in the province of Henan. Blending his colourful and considered style of documentary with the ‘snapshot’ aesthetic of street photography, these intriguing images are celebrated for their serenity, masterful dynamism and compelling atmosphere.

Nestled in the Song Mountains of Henan, the Monastery stands as an ancient beacon of martial arts and Chan Buddhism. Founded over 1,500 years ago, the Monastery is home to the Shaolin monks, who are world-renowned for their martial artistry and devoted, disciplined lifestyle. The monks’ intertwine their spiritual practice with rigorous training in kung fu, seeking harmony between physical strength and inner peace. McCurry reflects this sentiment in these powerful photographs. The skill of the monks combined with the magic of photography creates a superhuman quality; two surreal moments frozen in time.