Fashion editorial rarely transcends into emotional and thought-provoking territory but the work of Wing Shya for iD Magazine proves that this is certainly possible. Wing Shya‘s photographic style draws me in because it captures a certain dystopian romanticism. I think his photos express loniness and alienation in modern urban life in a way that almost looks photojournalistic. This edge of realism is something lacking from most fashion editorials and I’m glad artists like Wing Shya are leaving their mark on the industry.
The below biography is from the iD, be sure to visit it to see more of his work.
Wing Shya is a Hong Kong-based photographer and filmmaker working in fashion, film and art. He started his career as a graphic designer after studying at the Emily Carr Institute in Canada. Upon his return to Hong Kong,Wing Shya set up the Shya-la-la Workshop, an award-winning design studio. He is also the exclusive photographer and graphic designer for Wong Kar Wai’s films including Happy Together, In the Mood for Love, Eros and 2046. Wing Shya contributes to numerous international fashion magazines including i-D and French Vogue and his commercial clients include Louis Vuitton, Lacoste, A Bathing Ape and Nike.
Aside from photography, Wing Shya is also a recognised director. He has directed several music videos for artists such as Karen Mok, Eason Chan, Jacky Cheung and Vanessa Mae. In March 2006, he had his first solo exhibition at the Mori Museum in Roppongi Hill, Japan. In October 2007, he had two solo photo exhibitions – one held in Xintiandi, Shanghai and a Diesel sponsored exhibition “Wing Shya – The Archives Unlocked” in Hong Kong
Words by Rocky Li
