Neoteric VISION

With the use of photorealistic 3D art, Shania Lim and JJ Low are the two young creatives roots of fashion in Singapore materialising the subculture-influenced

- BRYAN HO

With the fashion industry advancing in a myriad of ways over the last few years, technology has played an undeniable role in pushing its boundaries. From digital runway shows to fashion in the metaverse, innovation has been at the forefront of mind. As for the latest revelation to take fashion by storm? Futuristic three-dimensional avatars. These graphic renderings are often hyper-realistic and play on sartorial themes such as brutalism and surrealism. Bold and deep colours, intense expressions and maximalist ensembles are just some of the common traits displayed in this mode of design.

For Singaporean fashion photographer and art director Shania Lim, the eventual popularity of 3D animation came as no surprise. Currently based in Paris, Lim’s passion for her craft stemmed from her obsession as a kid “with anything light- and shadow-related”. She adds: “No matter the process, the end goal is always to eloquently translate my visions into something tangible.” The 23-year-old prides herself on being multidisciplinary and staying attuned by constantly finding ways to improve and tap into undiscovered opportunities.

JJ Low—a 24-year-old Singaporean freelance 3D artist based locally—is in a similar headspace of trying to convey his artistic vision through his ethereal sci-fi digital landscapes. Describing his style as “characters or sculptural abominations inspired by cosmic horror”, Low has worked with notable celebrities like JJ Lin and Fiona Xie. Having initially studied to be an interior designer, his knowledge of spatial design helped ease him into 3D animation. “Having a foundation in 2D design made it easier for me to transition into 3D as I was self-taught from then on.”