PHUNK

PHUNK is a globally acclaimed contemporary art and design collective based in Singapore. Founded in 1994 by Alvin Tan (b. 1974), Melvin Chee (b. 1974), Jackson Tan (b. 1974), and William Chan (b. 1973), PHUNK has pioneered a unique approach to collective art-making, inspired by the collaborative energy of a rock-and-roll band and rooted in a shared passion for urban subcultures. Celebrated as “The Champion of Singapore’s Graphic Scene” (Creative Review, UK), “Asia’s hottest agency” (Computer Arts, UK), “one of the world’s foremost cutting-edge design collectives” (Asia Tatler, Hong Kong), and “iconic representatives of the new wave of young Asian creators” (Get it Louder, China), PHUNK has earned a reputation that resonates worldwide.

PHUNK’s work embodies a distinctive visual language, blending and reinterpreting influences that range from traditional Chinese craftsmanship, philosophy, and folklore to Hong Kong wuxia pulp fiction, Japanese manga, otaku culture, and Western pop culture. Their art combines elements from various art and design movements to create a singular aesthetic that reflects their multicultural identity and environment. Known as “Creators of modern urban mythological tales” (Chinese Contemporary Art News, Taiwan), PHUNK has built a densely populated visual universe filled with ancient gods, mythical beings, and contemporary characters to explore themes of social satire, human morality, rock-and-roll ethos, contemporary culture, and humour. The concept of ‘universality’ in an increasingly globalized world is a recurring theme throughout their work.

The collective constantly challenges conventional notions of the ‘artist’ and ‘commercial design studio,’ blurring the boundaries between the two. Their style fuses Neo Pop Art ideology with Post-Modernist design sensibilities, resulting in a cross-disciplinary approach that they describe as “an aesthetic collective consciousness,” focused on new visual expressions. PHUNK’s expansive portfolio spans art, design, publishing, fashion, music, film, and interactive media.

Over the years, PHUNK has collaborated with notable international brands and artists, including Nike, Nokia, MTV, Daimler Chrysler, Herman Miller, Uniqlo, Levi’s, and The Rolling Stones. Their works have been featured in numerous international publications and recognized in major design award shows. Their artwork Electricity was highlighted in the book Graphic Design, A New History as an example of “truly global graphic design.” In 2007, they were honoured with the President’s Design Award as ‘Designer of the Year,’ Singapore’s highest accolade in the arts and design. PHUNK has exhibited and lectured extensively worldwide, and their works are held in public institutions, private collections and well-known commissions globally. Notably, their piece CONTROL CHAOS (2003) was acquired by M+ Hong Kong for its permanent collection and displayed in the museum’s inaugural exhibition.