The Challenge of Attachment and the Essence of Creative Ambition: Exploring the Muse's Role in an Artist's Journey

One of the greatest obstacles that artists face in their quest to surpass mediocrity is becoming too attached to their previous creations. This attachment, combined with a sense of arrogance that they have reached the pinnacle of their abilities, can hinder future progress. I continuously strive to refine my craft and remain vigilant in my pursuit of artistic growth. Rarely do I maintain a lasting infatuation with my creative output beyond three months. Instead, I view these works as ordinary and lacking inspiration. Interestingly, the moments when I do sustain unwavering adoration for my creations beyond this timeframe coincide with periods of stagnation, where my artistic progress reaches a disconcerting plateau.

In the early stages of my career, I engaged in a competitive rivalry with fellow photographers. However, I gradually realized that healthy competition has its limitations because I am not them. Our perspectives, perceptions, and affinities diverge significantly. Still, I recognized the essential role of competition as a catalyst for personal growth. Consequently, I redirected my competitive spirit inward, aspiring to surpass the achievements of my previous artistic endeavors. Each passing week demands superior work compared to the preceding one, and every present moment calls for a photograph of greater quality than the one captured just moments ago. This perpetual pursuit of improvement embodies the essence of my creative ambition.

What defines a truly exceptional photograph? Is it the interplay of light and shadows? The careful arrangement of elements? Perhaps it lies in the subject's renown or the meticulous craftsmanship behind its production. While I acknowledge the significance of these factors, I contend that the true measure of a remarkable photograph lies in its ability to evoke profound emotional responses within its audience, regardless of the specific sentiment it elicits. It is this intangible connection, the power to stir something deep within the viewer's soul, that distinguishes a photograph as truly remarkable, surpassing mere technical prowess or aesthetic considerations.

Thus, I assert that the paramount attribute for a photographer is their capacity to establish a profound connection with their subject matter, whether it be living entities or inanimate objects. However, I ponder whether my reliance on a muse is necessary to fulfill my role as an artist. It is when I have a muse that my artistic endeavors flourish, yielding superior work. Conversely, in the absence of such inspiration, my progress reaches a disconcerting plateau.

In my personal experience, a muse has consistently taken the form of a woman, and more recently, even my three dogs at times. The reasons behind this choice are a discussion for another occasion. However, it is important to acknowledge that a muse can manifest differently for each individual. For someone else, it might be the expanse of the sky, a weathered stone, a man, or an elderly figure—anything capable of bestowing a perpetual wellspring of inspiration. I ponder whether it is conceivable for an artist to create art devoid of the nourishing influence of a muse, transcending the need for external inspiration.

Some may contend that depending on a muse is indicative of frailty or a dearth of creativity, yet I maintain that it is quite the contrary. The existence of a muse does not diminish the artist's capacity to generate and pioneer; rather, it amplifies their artistic vision and propels their work to unprecedented levels of grandeur.




Crocell Dong wins Silver for IDA Design Awards

Crocell Dong who New York Fashion Photographer Joseph Chen collaborated with to photograph her collection "The burnt child loves the fire" won Silver for IDA Design Awards Pret-a-Porter Men. The collection is inspired by a quote from Oscar Wilde, "The burnt child loves the fire." The design provokes the rebellious and hedonistic lifestyle of the young generation that seeks romantic danger

IDA Design Award winner Crocell Dong.

IDA Design Award winner Crocell Dong.

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Behind The Scenes of Lycra/Global Denim Shoot

In March we were hired for a joint shoot for Lycra and Global Denim. Here are the behind the scenes of that project. 

Casting female models. 

Claire Wustenberg during casting. She was selected her for the lookbook. 

Claire Wustenberg during casting. She was selected her for the lookbook. 

Lily Rose Cameron during casting. She was selected for the editorial part of the project. 

Lily Rose Cameron during casting. She was selected for the editorial part of the project. 

Casting male models

Emmanuelle Fiore during casting, we selected him for the lookbook. 

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Diego Miguel during casting. we selected him for the editorial. 

During the lookbook shoot somewhere in Bushwisk. 

Claire Wustenberg and Emanuelle Fiore 

Claire Wustenberg and Emanuelle Fiore 

During the editorial shoot in Montauk. 

Lily Rose just before we start the day. 

Lily Rose just before we start the day. 

Diego having his hair fixed towards the end of the shoot. 

Diego having his hair fixed towards the end of the shoot. 

The location. 

The location. 

Light test. 

Light test. 

Joseph Chen's Tropical Shades

 

Tropical Shades –Inspired by tropical summer, the March 2015 issue of Tatler Philippines focuses on edgy and warm looks with ultra-glamorous makeup styles. Model Victoria Anderson poses for Joseph Chen. Andy Basile worked as the shoot’s Creative Director with hair by Juan Carlos Maciques and makeup by Sandy Linter.

"Given a summer story and the nature of the colorful make-up, I saw what I define as a summer, vampy effortlessness. The hair reflects that simplicity by its wet and natural texture. The combination of that roughness with the glamorous beauty of the makeup, gives it that feeling of seduction. " describes hair stylist Juan Carlos Maciques. 

Joseph Chen's Aikido

AIKIDO - Looking towards a more adventurous future, the January 2015 issue of Spirit and Flesh puts the spotlight strong fashions with a martial art twist with this fashion editorial starring Erika Pattison. Joseph Chen captured the seductive Erika and the Aikido Masters in a high fashion look styled by the legendary Freddie Leiba. Hair stylist Adam Markarian and makeup artist Gregg Brockington create their alluring warrior beauty.

Model Erika Pattison with Juan Larrios

Model Erika Pattison with Juan Larrios

The shoot used collections from well-known designers such as Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, Giorgio Armani, Donna Karan, Calvin Klein and Alberta Ferretti. 

Erika Pattison with the Aikido Masters. 

Erika Pattison with the Aikido Masters. 

Aikido - The Process

Stylist Freddie Leiba dressing Erika Pattison.

Stylist Freddie Leiba dressing Erika Pattison.

New York fashion photographer Joseph Chen photographed Erika Pattison for the editorial Aikido for Spirit and Flesh. 

The editorial was styled by the legendary Freddie Leiba. 

Makeup artist Greg Brockington and Hairstylist Adam Markarian

Makeup artist Greg Brockington and Hairstylist Adam Markarian

The makeup was done by Greg Brockington with Adam Markarian fro Hair. 

Juan Larios putting his hakama on. 

Juan Larios putting his hakama on. 

Joey setting up the set. 

Joey setting up the set. 

Behind the scenes with Sabine Barbara Cozijnsen

On June 2014 Joseph Chen photographed dutch model Sabine Cozijnsen for No Tofu Magazine styled by Freddie Leiba. 

Angelic Dutch model Sabine Cozijnsen with hairstylist Adam Markarian. 

Angelic Dutch model Sabine Cozijnsen with hairstylist Adam Markarian. 

Freddie Leiba waiting for the shot to be setup. 

Freddie Leiba waiting for the shot to be setup. 

Carolina Fanni

Carolina Fanni

Carolina Fanni

Carolina Fanni

Model Sabine Cozijnsen ready to go home.

Model Sabine Cozijnsen ready to go home.

No Smiling - Sabine Cozijnsen

No Smiling - Sabine Cozijnsen



Joseph Chen Photographs Paige Reifler for Tatler

New York Fashion Photographer Joseph Chen photographed model Paige Reifler for Philippine Tatler, May 2014 issue, the fashion editorial was styled by legendary fashion stylist Freddie Leiba. "The shoot for Tatler with Joseph evoked such classic, effortless beauty. The entire team was fantastic and the outcome only further confirms everyone's talent in their field,” declares model Paige Reifler.

“My inspiration for the editorial Le Jeune Fille was this elusive beautiful high society girl from New York, an “It Girl” that is easy for everyone to fall in love with. During casting, I had a hard time finding a model that embodies that essence. But I knew that I found the perfect model the moment I saw Paige,” says Joseph Chen.“The editorial was a preview of the best of S/S 2014 collections from some of the most respected fashion houses,” added Freddie Leiba.

Model Paige Reifler

“With the combination of Joseph's photography, Freddie's styling, Sandy's makeup and our model Paige, it made for one of the best results I've been a part of. I'm ecstatic with the outcome,” according to Hair Stylist Juan Carlos Maciques.

The shoot used collections from well-known designers such as Christian Dior, Blumarine, Max Mara, Donna Karan, Calvin Klein and Alberta Ferretti.

Girls and Cats by Joseph Chen for Spirit and Flesh Magazine

The fashion editorial entitled Girls and Cats for New York-based magazine Spirit and Flesh was inspired by the paintings of Polish-French modern artist Balthasar Klossowski de Rola, best known as Balthus.

“Richly lit and slightly transgressed, Joseph Chen and Freddie Leiba invite us to be fashion voyeurs. With beautifully selected garments and strong, moody compositions, this story is a must-see homage to Balthus,” commented Yelena Deyneko, Creative Director of Spirit and Flesh magazine.

“We were very much inspired by Balthus’ exhibit at The Metropolitan Museum of Art and it just so happened that there are the right clothes in the S/S 14 collection to do a fashion editorial with his work as inspiration,” reveals Freddie Leiba.

The editorial was shot with Brazilian model Paula Mulazzani with male model Jonathan Zakus. Mulazzani recently graced the catwalk for fashion houses such Giorgio Armani and Naeem Khan. Rob van Dorssen did both hair and makeup.

Photographer Joseph Chen concludes, “I think this is one of my best works ever and surprisingly, we finished three hours earlier than anticipated. Freddie and I was planning and conceptualizing this photo shoot for more than three months before shooting it.”

Designs by Calvin Klein, Max Mara, Ralph Lauren, Paul Smith, DKNY were used to style the editorial.

Model Paula Mulazzani 

Model Paula Mulazzani 

Behind The Scene Pictures During Balthus Inspired Shoot

Check out some of the behind the scenes pictures during the Balthus inspired editorial we shot in January 2014. 

Freddie Leiba, Paula Mulazzani and Rob van Dorssen.

Freddie Leiba, Paula Mulazzani and Rob van Dorssen.

Freddie Leiba showing the reference pictures to Paula Mulazzani. 

Freddie Leiba showing the reference pictures to Paula Mulazzani. 

Rob van Dorssen and model Paula Mulazzani. 

Rob van Dorssen and model Paula Mulazzani. 

Freddie Leiba being a perfectionist. 

Freddie Leiba being a perfectionist. 

Assistant Marion Liétout still sleepy while standing in for the model. 

Assistant Marion Liétout still sleepy while standing in for the model. 

Rob van Dorssen and model Paula Mulazzani. 

Rob van Dorssen and model Paula Mulazzani. 

Tatler Photo Shoot - Behind the Scene

Join us behind the scene on Joseph Chen's Tatler editorial photo shoot with model Paige Reifler. 

Model Paige Reifler being cute. 

Model Paige Reifler being cute. 

Legendary stylist Freddie Leiba with Joey Pasaoa and Omenaa.

Legendary stylist Freddie Leiba with Joey Pasaoa and Omenaa.

Juan Carlos Maciques being a perfectionist with the the alluring Paige Reifler. 

Juan Carlos Maciques being a perfectionist with the the alluring Paige Reifler. 

Sandy Linter and Paige Reifler. 

Sandy Linter and Paige Reifler. 

Model Paige Reifler still sleepy while having her hair done by Juan Carlos and manicure by Gerry. 

Model Paige Reifler still sleepy while having her hair done by Juan Carlos and manicure by Gerry. 

Fashion guru Freddie Leiba fixing the clothes of Paige. 

Fashion guru Freddie Leiba fixing the clothes of Paige. 

Legendary makeup artist and author of 2 books Sandy Linter and hair genius Juan Carlos Maciques making the adorable Paige Reifler perfect. 

Legendary makeup artist and author of 2 books Sandy Linter and hair genius Juan Carlos Maciques making the adorable Paige Reifler perfect. 

We are Collision Cover Shoot

Behind the scenes pictures from the We Are Collison cover photo shoot by New York Fashion Photographer Joseph Chen with model Kat Niko and Barbora styled by the legendary Freddie Lieiba. 

Juan Carlos fixing the hair and Kat Niko and Barbora. 

Juan Carlos fixing the hair and Kat Niko and Barbora. 

Two of the most beautiful women in the world, Sandy Linter and Kat Niko. 

Two of the most beautiful women in the world, Sandy Linter and Kat Niko. 

Freddie Leiba with model Barbora. 

Freddie Leiba with model Barbora. 

Juan Carlos being a perfectionist. 

Juan Carlos being a perfectionist. 

Joseph Chen’s All that Glitters for Tatler with Sophia Lie

All that Glitters – Model Sophia Lie is on the style section cover  of Philippine Tatler, June 2013 edition. Fashion Photographer Joseph Chen photographed the Norwegian model for the issue. On the cover, Sophia wears sunglasses  from ARTSEE eyewear.

“A modern take on classic glamour, with dewy not too made up looking skin to keep her natural healthy glow and a classic red lip that has a 40′s Hollywood feel- think Kim Basinger in L.A. Confidential” said Ingeborg when asked about her inspiration for the makeup.

“I wanted to do a simple, clean, luxurious beauty story, just using 1 piece of jewelry for every shot. I wanted it to look like a jewelry campaign. I also loved the model’s playful attitude in some of the images.” said stylist Kelly Brown.

 

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Credits

Photographer: Joseph Chen

Model: Sophia Lie @ Supreme

Stylist: Kelly Brown

Makeup: Ingeborg @ Opus Beauty

Hair Stylist: Eloise Cheung @ Walter Schupfer

Nails: Eri Handa

Assistant: Joey Pasaoa

Making the Warrior Spirit

By N. Placek

After 3 months of painstaking preparations, followed by an exhilarating 15 hour shoot, we’re finally on the tail end of our Viking/Game of Thrones-inspired Kurv magazine editorial! In an effort that required an uninhibited model, light-hearted stylist, undeterred art director, 3 photographer’s assistants, a reluctant horse, and the cooperation of an uninvited beach-bum, Joseph and his team are putting the finishing touches on the beautiful photos from the day.

When scrolling through image after image of the stunning Luana, radiant in Dolce and Gabbana, it’s easy to forget the less glamorous hours that got us to Fort Tilden Beach.  There was the test of our individual strengths, when we took turns hauling the 100 lb generator through the streets of Brooklyn, and the test of patience when Joey personally scoured New York City to find a Cinderella worthy, snow-white horse (not an easy feat in the Concrete Jungle). There was the meticulous, detailed process of choosing of the model, hand-picked from hundreds of Agency options, as well as the three separate trips out to Fort Tilden Beach, where we scrutinized the dunes for the perfect backdrop.  The only detail of the Kurv shoot we overlooked was sunscreen, watching each other succumb to awkward tan-lines, and desperately daydreaming about SPFanything.

But here we are, 2 months until the photos are published in Kurv, and 4 months since this concept was first being casually discussed, just an idea thrown around as something that might be fun to shoot at the beach.  The horse was returned, the sunburn has faded, and it’s safe to say the work was definitely worth it!  We are thrilled with the finished products, and can’t wait to see them in 12 pages of glossy perfection.  In the meantime, we’ll keep our nose to the grindstone, gearing up for the next big project, including another Kurv editorial in April.  Keep your eye on us for upcoming shoots, and images, and make sure to mark your December calendar for our big launch!