Considered by many to be one of the most influential pioneers of Singapore's creative scene, Theseus Chan seems to show no sign of slowing down in his relentless pushing of the envelope both in his own country and internationally. Reveling in the opportunity to conceptualize and flesh out creative ideas freely, rather than be held down by the constraints of commercially-charged inventiveness, it is no wonder that the world waits for every new project or move with bated breath.

Over the years, Theseus has managed to prove himself to be both creative enigma, as well as uncompromisingly spot-on when it comes to either promoting, nurturing or judging innovative ventures. With a long list of international accolades and commercial success tucked safely behind his belt, one can only begin to wonder where his path takes him next. TAXI sits down with the man himself to try and pry into his sometimes weird, sometimes wonderful, and always beautiful - world.



TAXI >>Hello Theseus. Having been a former recipient of the Designer of the Year Award at the Singapore President’s Design Awards in 2006, and now being a part of the Jury Panel in 2008, how do you feel being awarded this prestigious honor actually help designers and creatives in taking their works to the next level?

Theseus Chan>>For designers and creatives this recognition affirmed that they are in the direction and it is their onus now to inspire others by their example they have set.

TAXI >>The Singapore government has been investing large amounts of money to promote Singapore as a design/creative hub in recent years. What do you feel are some of the biggest hits and misses to come out of this so far?

Theseus Chan>>I am aware that design/creative industries is getting more attention and focus from the government. But I have not paid any attention to hits or misses. But i suggest paying more attention to the emotive aspects in building a design culture in Singapore not just hard figures and statistics.

TAXI >>How has your love for music, in particular, for delta blues, influenced your work over the years?

Theseus Chan>>The oppressions faced by the slaves in Mississippi Delta resulted in a call and response way to communicate. This a creative means to express one's story and strangle in a song. Delta Blues, Country Blues, Chicago Blues, Texas Blues, Electric Blues, Acoustics Blues... i like them all. I have use these inspirations in my work.

TAXI >>WORK has dabbled in a wide range of diverse projects, ranging the entire spectrum of design and advertising, with the overall aim to evoke reactions. What, in your opinion, is possibly the best reaction that can be derived from a consumer?

Theseus Chan>>It's unexpected and inspiring and it left a lasting impression.

TAXI >>You once made the observation that the Singapore design scene was “getting too trendy”. Can you please elaborate a little more on this, and whether you feel it is still happening today?

Theseus Chan>>Being trendy means that you are already part of "the establishment". It means that it is already defined and accepted by the mainstream. Hence, anything truly new or original precede trends.

TAXI >>You are a strong advocate of allowing things to happen organically, without holding on to too much control. What are some of the more memorable collaborations that have come out of this style of working?

Theseus Chan>>WERK magazine, Pedderzine, the Singapore CdG Guerilla Store interiors...

TAXI >>If there was one country or city in the world that global creatives should have their eye on right now, which would it be, and why?

Theseus Chan>>If you have the talent, opportunity and means, make it happen wherever you are. This planet is getting too small.

This interview was made possible with the assistance of the DesignSingapore Council.

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