Seascape- Man and Nature through the lense of Eiffel Chong

Seascape- A solo exhibition by Eiffel Chong (Malaysia) at Artify Gallery, Hong Kong

Perspective is a tricky thing – viewed in different contexts, meaning and messages can be redefined. It is in Seascape that Eiffel explores the relationship between man and his surroundings, transforming typical literal sea views into questions of existence . Seascape is the second of Chong’s exhibition Artify Gallery (Hong Kong) presents, after its inaugural exhibition in 2012. The exhibition runs from 22 January – 05 March, 2015.

The world according to Eiffel’s camera lenses, with the help of the Neutral Density filter and pastel film becomes a zen-like tranquil quality, almost too still at first glance. However, the craft of positioning and centering humanity amidst the wonders of nature creates a grandiose effect of an overwhelming sense of serenity. This effect is vastly different from an imagery of an open sea, whether still or with gentle waves. The serenity from a barren landscape is quiet and tranquil, whilst the serenity from another which has a human element commands a sense of comparison which adds to a higher level of appreciation of calmness amidst the realities of the world. Thus is the relationship between man and nature – a constant struggle in achieving balance, a love hate, and ultimately

Taken at different locations along coastal Asia, the photographs are united in their composition. Carefully orchestrated by Chong, each image alludes to man as a creator, defined however by the parameters set by nature. Be it a buoy, boat, seemingly abandoned pier, kitsch crab statue or conglomeration of skyscrapers in our familiar Hong Kong, the traces left by man are generously featured in the center of Chong’s works. Blending into the lucid ocean and sky, the human world coexists with nature seamlessly in the fictional space skillfully crafted by Chong.

Eiffel Chong graduated with an MA in International Contemporary Art and Design Practice from the University of East London and a BA (Hons) in Photography from London College of Printing. Besides his production of photographic work, Chong is highly engaged with the Malaysian photographic community; taking on the role of mentor for the Goethe Institut Malaysia/Nikon Shooting Stars programme and Exposure+ Workshop. In addition, he has been appointed to the panel of judges for the Kuala Lumpur Photography Awards 2013 and 2010/2011 Annual Nikon Photo Awards, Malaysia. He was also named finalist for The Sovereign Asian Art Prize (Hong Kong) in 2014, and nominee for The Prix Pictet (London) in 2013.

Eiffel Chong’s work considers abstract concepts of life and death through the banal details, silent landscapes and curious obsessions he observes from daily life. More of his work can be viewed on http://www.eiffelchong.com

Eiffel now lives and work in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Seascape – A solo exhibition by Eiffel Chong

Date: 22 January – 05 March, 2015 Address: Artify Gallery, 10F, Block A, Ming Po Industrial Centre, 18 Ka Yip Street, Chai Wan

Opening Times: Tue – Fri 10am to 7pm; Sat 11am to 7pm; Closed on Sun & Mon

Phone: +852 3543 1260 Website: www.artifygallery.com