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Aik Beng Chia, known affectionately as ABC, is a celebrated Singaporean photographer and artist whose work has captivated audiences around the world. Born and raised in Singapore, Chia’s journey into photography began as a hobby, gradually evolving into a profound exploration of urban life, culture, and human connections within the bustling cityscape of his hometown.

Chia’s distinctive style combines street photography with elements of fine art, resulting in images that are both visually striking and emotionally resonant. His keen eye for composition, light, and color transforms seemingly ordinary moments into extraordinary visual narratives, inviting viewers to see the world through his unique perspective.

One of Chia’s most renowned bodies of work is his ongoing series titled “Tonight the Streets Are Ours,” which offers a glimpse into the vibrant nightlife of Singapore’s streets. Through his lens, he captures the energy, diversity, and contradictions of urban life after dark, portraying scenes of revelry, solitude, and introspection with equal grace and sensitivity.

What sets Chia apart as a photographer is his ability to infuse his images with a sense of intimacy and empathy. Whether photographing strangers on the street or documenting the everyday rhythms of life in Singapore, he approaches his subjects with respect and curiosity, forging fleeting yet meaningful connections that are reflected in his work.

In addition to his street photography, Chia is also known for his experimental approach to visual storytelling. He frequently incorporates digital manipulation and collage techniques into his work, pushing the boundaries of traditional photography to create immersive and thought-provoking narratives.

Chia’s influence extends beyond the realm of photography, as he is also an accomplished visual artist. He has collaborated with musicians, filmmakers, and other artists to create multimedia installations and immersive experiences that blur the lines between photography, video, and sound.

Despite his international acclaim, Chia remains deeply rooted in the local arts scene in Singapore. He is actively involved in community projects, workshops, and exhibitions, where he mentors aspiring photographers and shares his passion for visual storytelling with the next generation of artists.

Back in 2010, Chia has gained recognition for his advocacy of mobile photography, demonstrating that powerful images can be captured using nothing more than a smartphone. His Instagram account, where he shares his daily snapshots of life in Singapore, has amassed a loyal following of over a hundred thousand followers, further cementing his status as a pioneer in the world of mobile photography.

Chia’s work serves as a testament to the power of photography to transcend cultural boundaries, challenge stereotypes, and foster empathy and understanding. Through his lens, he invites viewers to see the beauty in the mundane, the poetry in the everyday, and the humanity that unites us all.

Aik Beng Chia is a visionary artist whose photography transcends the boundaries of traditional street photography to create immersive and emotionally resonant visual narratives. Through his keen eye for composition, his experimental approach to storytelling, and his unwavering commitment to capturing the essence of urban life, Chia has emerged as one of Singapore’s most influential photographers and cultural ambassadors. His work continues to inspire and provoke thought, reminding us of the transformative power of art to connect us to ourselves and to the world around us.

ABC (@aikbenchia)  is one of the artist we will be meeting during the trip to Singapore organized by NewOldCamera on 26-10/02-11 (link here).