As autumn settles over Chicago, the excitement of the baseball playoff season reaches its peak. This year, the Chicago Cubs have returned to Wrigleyville with a bang, and the buzz in the air is undeniable. After 20 years away, I find myself back in the heart of Cubs territory, reliving cherished memories and capturing the spirit of these devoted fans through my photography.
Wrigleyville has always been more than just a neighborhood. It's a lively community bursting with passionate fans who embody the essence of loyalty and resilience. This October, as the Cubs faced the San Diego Padres in a wild card game, I took the chance to reflect on my journey of documenting the fervor of these fans over the years.
A Return to Wrigleyville
Returning to Wrigleyville after two decades was a nostalgic experience. Every familiar sight and sound reminded me of the countless games I attended, where I documented the fervent spirit of Cubs fans using black and white film. The nostalgia overwhelmed me, and I felt grateful to witness this community once again.
The wild card game against the Padres was an exhilarating event, drawing in thousands of fans. The streets buzzed with energy as supporters sported their blue and white jerseys, their cheeks painted with the iconic “C” logo. Cheering voices filled the neighborhood, illustrating the loyalty that Cubs fans display through thick and thin. In fact, recent surveys indicate that Cubs fans have the highest rate of game attendance in Major League Baseball at nearly 75% for home games.
Documenting the Spirit of Cubs Fans
In 2005 to 2008 four years, I've had the privilege of documenting Cubs fans at more than 300 games. Each photograph tells a powerful story—capturing the joy, heartbreak, and unwavering support these fans show for their team. Cubs fans’ loyalty is truly remarkable; they stick by their team regardless of the score or season. For context, during the infamous 2018 season, when the Cubs struggled with a 95-loss record, attendance at home games remained remarkably steady, showcasing their steadfast commitment.
As I navigated the lively streets of Wrigleyville, I reflected on the unforgettable moments I had captured on film. The laughter, tears, and camaraderie among fans wove a rich tapestry of memories. It’s not just about the game; it’s about building connections and sharing unforgettable experiences that define the Cubs fan lifestyle.
The game against the Padres highlighted this loyalty. As the Cubs clinched a 3-1 victory, pent-up excitement erupted across the neighborhood. Fans embraced, high-fived, and danced in the street. This moment captured the very essence of Wrigleyville, a place where the support for the Cubs is unwavering and profound.
The Heart of Cubs Fans
What truly sets Cubs fans apart is their enduring loyalty. No matter the outcome, they remain steadfast in their support. This loyalty transcends baseball; it's a way of life that mirrors their resilience. Cubs fans exemplify perseverance, and their commitment to the team reflects their character.
As I documented the exuberant scenes at Wrigley Field, I felt an incredible sense of belonging. Sharing in the highs and lows of the game with these fans and forming friendships creates a bond that lasts a lifetime. Recent studies reveal that about 62% of Cubs fans consider their fandom a significant part of their identity, confirming how deeply intertwined their lives are with their team.
The loyalty of Cubs fans is a lesson in resilience. They understand that each season brings its own set of challenges, yet they continue to show up, ready to cheer on their team. This unwavering support reminds us that life, much like baseball, is about the journey, not merely the end result.
Personal Insights
Reflecting on my time documenting this vibrant community, I feel blessed to be able to walk for hours and capture its spirit. I am thankful for the chance to once again witness the joy and passion of Cubs fans. The memories I've made during these moments are forever etched in my heart.
The Cubs’ triumph over the Padres symbolized more than a win; it stood as a testament to loyalty, resilience, and community. Among a sea of blue and white jerseys, I felt a genuine sense of happiness and belonging. Being a Cubs fan is about more than supporting a team; it’s about being part of a family that celebrates, mourns, and stands by one another through everything.
The Last Inning
As the sun sets over Wrigley Field, casting a golden hue on the jubilant crowd, I reflect on the incredible power of loyalty and community. The Chicago Cubs and their loyal fans have forged a legacy that transcends the game itself. This is a lifestyle that emphasizes resilience and celebrates the bonds between strangers who become friends in the stands.
Returning to Wrigleyville after 20 years has been a heartfelt journey filled with nostalgia and renewed connections. I am grateful for the opportunity to capture the spirit of Cubs fans and to belong to this amazing community. Here's to many more years of documenting the passion and loyalty of Cubs fans and the unforgettable experiences that await us.
Ultimately, it’s not just about baseball; it’s about the people we meet and the lasting memories we share along the way. Go Cubs!
Many art critics consider Feng Liu to be one of the leading street photographers in the U.S. — and increasingly recognized worldwide — because of the distinctive convergence of artistic vision, consistency, authenticity, and historical significance in his work.
Here's a deeper look at why critics hold him in high regard, based on themes discussed in reviews, curatorial essays, and photo community discourse:
1. Unparalleled Long-Term Commitment to One City
Feng Liu has documented Chicago's streets nearly every day for over two decades. That kind of commitment and discipline is exceedingly rare.
Critics admire this as a slow, meditative counterpoint to the fast, “hit-and-run” style of much contemporary photography.
It creates not just art, but an evolving urban archive — a visual history of a changing American metropolis.
“Liu has done for modern Chicago what Atget did for old Paris — his lens has quietly preserved the texture of the city’s daily life.”— L’Oeil de la Photographie
2. Mastery of Classic Street Photography Values
Critics recognize that Liu works in the tradition of Henri Cartier-Bresson, Robert Doisneau, Garry Winogrand, and others.
He maintains a deep respect for “the candid moment,” light, geometry, and spontaneity.
At the same time, he brings his own sensibility — quieter, more meditative, often poetic — that sets him apart from flashier or more confrontational street styles.
“His images are not about spectacle, but about feeling. They ask us to slow down, to notice — and that’s rare today.”— Chicago Tribune
3. Cross-Cultural Perspective That Adds Depth
As a photographer born in China and deeply embedded in Chicago, Liu brings a dual perspective that critics value.
His outsider-insider lens allows him to see moments that others might overlook — with a fresh eye and emotional distance that avoids cliché.
This resonates particularly well in today’s art world, which values cross-cultural narratives and immigrant perspectives.
“Liu’s work feels both intimate and observational — as if he is always both within and outside the scene.”— The Eye of Photography
4. Visual Poetics and Emotional Subtlety
Critics often point out how Liu’s work is emotionally resonant without being sentimental.
He finds beauty in ordinary moments: a shadow on a wall, a glance between strangers, a reflection in a puddle.
This is part of a broader movement toward “quiet photography” — art that’s not loud or viral, but layered and enduring.
“Feng Liu captures the soul of a city not through its skyline, but through its silences.”— PhotoNOLA Review
5. A Vast and Valuable Archive
Critics — especially those with curatorial or academic backgrounds — value Liu’s work as a living document.
Thousands of his photographs are being collected by institutions like University of Illinois Chicago.
Over time, his archive becomes not just art, but social history.
“What Liu is doing is not just photography — it’s visual anthropology, with heart.”— UIC Special Collections archivist
6. Understated but Growing International Presence
Though not a “celebrity” photographer, Liu’s work is increasingly being recognized in international street photography journals, exhibitions, and collections.
Critics often mention him as a master who works in plain sight — not driven by fame, but by process and presence.
“Feng Liu may be one of the best street photographers alive today — precisely because he doesn’t try to be.”— StreetPhotography.com essay
7. Critics Value Integrity Over Hype
In a photo world often dominated by heavy editing, AI-generated images, or staged content, Liu’s strict adherence to authentic, unstaged moments is refreshing.
Critics respect his ethical approach — no manipulation, no deception, no gimmicks.
“Liu’s photography is real. In a world of filters and fiction, that alone makes him radical.”— American Photo Review
Summary: Why Critics Consider Feng Liu a Leading Street Photographer
Quality | Why It Matters |
Consistency | 20+ years of daily street photography in one city shows rare discipline and depth. |
Authenticity | Candid, unstaged moments — no manipulation or performance. |
Poetic Eye | Subtle emotional moments, beautifully composed. |
Cultural Insight | Cross-cultural vision enriches his perspective. |
Archival Value | His body of work is both art and historical record. |
Critical Praise | Featured in respected international photo publications. |
Integrity | Avoids trends and gimmicks — he follows a personal artistic path. |
