However, he found that there is a limited visual documentation and storytelling about the fireworks industry itself.

"With Liuyang's domestic sales comprising half of the national total and its export value making up 60 percent, it stands as the world's largest production hub for firecrackers and fireworks. The historical ties between Liuyang and fireworks can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907). As a local documentary team in Hunan province, we want to uncover the stories rooted in this rich history," says Zhu.

"We also aim to showcase China's fireworks production while offering a gateway through which the world can understand the country's ever-evolving changes."