Photographer Marisse Caine On Documenting Youth Culture In Singapore
After all, the photographer/artist has been doing so since she was a youth herself back in the 2000s – and is still very much one in spirit.
“As a photographer, what really draws me to a subject is when he or she has an interesting story or offers a unique perspective. These are usually people who think differently and exude this distinctive energy. It’s more about their attitude and less about their style – they are constantly challenging the norm, and it’s this attitude that shapes their style. And in Singapore right now, there’s a whole bunch of Gen Z creatives that excites me.
Photographer Marisse Caine has been capturing Singapore's underground scene for well over a decade, and some her favourite subjects in recent years include fashion designer Moh Ee Jin (blond hair with sunglasses).
For example, I’m fascinated with the model Anthony whom I shot for this issue. It’s hard to place where he’s from and his features – particularly his eyes – remind me of the 2000s supermodel Lily Cole, which in turn makes me rethink what is beautiful when it comes to masculinity. There’s also Moh Ee Jin, the fashion designer behind the clothing label Lasik. What’s cool about him is that he has a very clear idea of what he wants even though he’s only in his early 20s… He could be wearing a trash bag and it would still look cool because of his conviction and passion.
Marisse Caine's has a soft spot for the queer party collective Bussy Temple for their independent spirit.
Another name I’m drawn to is the queer collective Bussy Temple, who are behind the rave of the same name. The group throws really cerebral, immersive events and are to me redefining the term ‘queer’. A Bussy Temple night carves out a space not only for the LGBQTIA+ community, but also for anyone who doesn’t feel like he or she fits into social conventions. And to me, that’s what youth culture should be about: pushing against the grain, claiming what’s yours, and expressing what other people might not dare to.”
AS TOLD TO KENG YANG SHUEN
This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity
This article first appeared in the April 2024 Art Book edition of FEMALE