To the uninitiated, the Singaporean fashion brand An Asylum seemingly remains an enigma. Esoteric and understated in approach, the label prides itself on producing contemporary designs that reimagine traditional archetypes, seamlessly melding together a wide array of disciplines that include fashion, fine art, literature and even psychology. Best known for its considered approach and meticulous detailing, the brand’s debut collection was showcased at StamfordArts Centre during Singapore Art Week 2021, placing its stamp on the local scene.
At the helm is 33-year-old product designer Jaren Neo and 28-year-old multidisciplinary artist Becky Ng, who launched the brand in 2019 with the common goal of building a platform that offers an alternative approach to fashion. Shares Neo of the motivation behind launching their own label: “An Asylum began as a way to merge both of our passions—mine for design and Becky’s for storytelling. Growing up surrounded by creativity, we felt a pull to create a space where we could express our ideas without restriction.” He explains that An Asylum is more than just a fashion label, but instead an incubator for self-experimentation and expression. “Our collections are deeply inspired by the stories we want to tell and the emotions we aim to evoke, inviting our audience to engage with fashion in a way that feels personal and immersive.” Ng offers similar sentiments, citing that the label’s ethos is one built on compelling narratives and individuality.
But what sets An Asylum apart from its local counterparts would be the in-house residency programme that the brand offers. Established the same year as its conception, the programme sees Neo and Ng picking out a viable candidate and mentoring their project from start to finish, serving as the duo’s way of giving back to the local creative community. “When we started, there were limited resources available—especially for those without extensive financial backing,” shares the duo. “We went through a lot of trial and error, and we wanted to create a supportive environment where others would not have to face the same struggles. The idea was to provide a space where artists and designers could experiment and grow, without the pressure of immediate commercial success.”
To date, two successful residencies have been completed under the programme. The first applicant was product design student Mai Yuyan, who reworked her final-year project under the guidance of Neo and Ng. The second residency saw Philippine-born, Singaporean-raised fashion designer Josh Tirados produce a runway show for his eponymous label in May last year, one that was extremely well-received by the public. Mentoring these creatives has certainly enriched Neo and Ng, reinforcing their belief in mutual growth within the industry. “Running An Asylum already requires a lot of attention, but we make it a priority to stay actively involved with our residents. Witnessing these artists benefit from the programme and grow through the experience has been extremely rewarding, and has kept us energised and optimistic of the future.”
“Nurturing creativity allows ourselves and others the freedom to explore and evolve at our own pace.”
Looking ahead, the duo is excited to witness the evolution of the local fashion and arts scene. With the recent increase in collaborations across varying creative disciplines, the door remains open for new trailblazers and innovative projects to leave their mark. “There is a lot of talent and creativity here, along with a strong sense of community,” notes Neo and Ng. “Nurturing creativity allows ourselves and others the freedom to explore and evolve at our own pace. At the end of the day, it is about supporting each other, offering guidance and building a community that encourages continuous growth and self-expression.”
Photography Zantz Han
Styling Bryan
Hair Zhou Aiyi using Keune Hair Cosmetics
Make-up Wee Ming using NARS
Photographer’s assistant Alexander Ng
Vogue Singapore’s November ‘Nurture’ issue is now out on newsstands and available online.
