Chinese photographer and artist redefines contemporary Eastern beauty
At the core of Chen Man’s artistic philosophy is the fusion of different cultures
“Actresses are more comfortable getting naked in front of me,” quips Chen Man, nonchalantly. “It’s probably the biggest perk of being a female photographer.”
As China’s most respected fashion photographer, Chen has photographed many A-listers, from Gong Li to Fan Bingbing and Zhou Xun. Some have been more than willing to strip for the camera simply because they trust the person who is behind it.
In a traditionally male-dominated industry, Chen has made her name not just as a photographer but also as an artist with her own interpretation of new Oriental looks and avant-garde approach towards portrait-making.
“Observing people through my viewfinder is what I do every day,” she says. “What interests me the most is that my subjects are constantly evolving with their new life experiences.”
Chen has become a celebrity herself. The multitalented and creative Chen has collaborated with many luxury brands – the latest being Kering-backed jewellery house Qeelin.
Working in conjunction with Qeelin’s creative director Dennis Chan, Chen designed a limited-edition pendant called the Monkey King Bo Bo which puts a creative spin on Qeelin’s iconic Bobo motif and its take on cute pandas. The coloured diamond-encrusted panda motif is fitted with interchangeable face masks and adorned with the Monkey King crown.
“I love the Monkey King because it’s such a classic Chinese motif and it’s also a rebel – so much fun and invincible,” says Chen, who is dressed in a floor-grazing, body-hugging black robe for our interview in Beijing’s Aman at Summer Palace.Chen is well versed in the social world yet keeps her distance.