“Photography is truth”—those are the words of Jean-Luc Godard. As far as being a thesis on the reflexive and reflective power of art goes, those three words encompass multitudes; they affirm the importance of having a point of view, rendering it on a canvas for the world to see and the deeply emotive, intangible power inherent in that act of expression. Vogue Singapore acknowledges and recognises this fully and in this spirit, is proud to present Vogue Talent Prize 2023.
We live in a digitally accelerated present where the expressive power of sensory phenomena has been maximised to a level that is truly and literally unprecedented. It’s a truism that no image is mute or static. Now, though, the stakes of that reality are upped superlatively. Storytellers and image-makers have never had this vast a field to play on—the possibilities for how to visually convey what you have to say are nearly limitless.
The Vogue Talent Prize is born from a deep understating of the hyper-critical role that images play in digital discourse, which, these days, has emerged as the prevailing mode of communication. Through Vogue Talent Prize, the Vogue Singapore Foundation aims to raise the bar by nurturing local creative talents and placing them on a global stage.
“We are looking for storytellers that push boundaries and embody the perfect balance of creativity, innovation, and originality. Regardless of the medium or style, we hope to see unique perspectives that showcase what the future of fashion can be”, says Desmond Lim, editor-in-chief of Vogue Singapore, underscoring Vogue Singapore’s commitment to holding a torch for the boundary-pushers and conversation-igniters of the future.
The Prize is the perfect opportunity for students, creatives and young professionals aged 18-30 pursuing a career in photography, illustration, 3D art, videography, animation, digital wearables and more to spread their wings within their chosen disciplines and elevate the impact of their work. To apply, candidates must submit a visual response to the following question, along with a 100-word description of their work.
Vogue Singapore and Farfetch believe in driving innovation in the fashion industry. What role does innovation and experimentation play in your creative practice?
Once the applications close, on 11.59pm on 15 May 2023, five applicants will be selected by a jury of esteemed industry professionals to create a brand campaign for Vogue Singapore. The jury includes Desmond Lim, editor-in-chief, Vogue Singapore, Bettina von Schlippe, publisher, Vogue Singapore, Yah-Leng Yu, founding creative director of Foreign Policy Design Group and Vogue Council member, Mae Tan, creative multi-hyphenate and Vogue Council member, Rafiq Mohamad, creative director of Feral and Vogue Council member, Fiona Xie, actress and Vogue Council member, and Ben Jones, CEO and founder of The Mandala Group. Subsequently, one winner will be selected through online voting and an appraisal process.
Meet the judges
The final winner of the prize will receive editorial exposure on Vogue Singapore’s print and digital platforms, a S$3,000 cash prize sponsored by Farfetch as well as an internship with Vogue Singapore.
In addition to the above, the winner will also receive a 1-year complimentary U30 membership at Mandala Club (valued at S$4,276+). The Mandala Club lives by one core belief: “Surround yourself with great people in great environments and great things will happen.” Understanding the challenges of young budding professionals, the Club aims to create an accessible and empowered U30 community that inspires meaningful moments, and to make connections that matter.
Vogue Talent Prize is just one of the initiatives by Vogue Singapore Foundation, which has a mission to nurture regional talent, break down barriers to creative education, and elevate the ASEAN fashion industry.
“With the Talent Prize, Vogue Singapore Foundation aims to spotlight young, emerging talents with a passion for storytelling and build a support system for young creatives. We want to unearth the next generation of talent across the creative ecosystem, and place them on a global stage”, reiterates Vogue Singapore Foundation’s programme director Petra Sekhar.
If you have something to say and an original way to say it, now’s your time.
To apply, please click here. Applications close at 11.59pm on 15 May 2023.