A Point of View – Asian, Still, by Devendra Bisaria

Speed of Light
 

In the on-going photography debate of digital versus film, Devendra Bisaria still stands firmly on the side of the latter. “I continue to use film as this is fundamental to my concept of photography as an art medium. I compare it to vinyl records and CDs – you can’t beat the former for quality!” says Bisaria, a self-taught photographer who has nurtured an interest in the art since his schooling days.

Honing his skills on his travels, Bisaria decided to pursue the hobby more seriously, and held his first formal exhibition in September 2007 at The Arts House in Singapore. His fourth and latest exhibition, A Point of View – Asian, Still, will return to this same venue, from February 23 to 26, 2012, and will feature a new collection of 55 photographic works, as well as some of his older works to be displayed.

Wabi Sabi
 

Born in North India and currently living in Singapore, Bisaria has travelled extensively in the last two years, largely in Asia, where he has found that the continent offers endless photo opportunities. His new works present his personal observations of a rapidly changing Asian environment, and thus, he believes that the intrinsic nature of film allows for the most sincere self-expression.

“Since my proposition is capturing the truth of the moment that I see and experience, it would be self-defeating to alter that moment digitally. What I saw is what you get. Of course, interpreting it and what you take from it depends on your point of view,” he offers.

To a Better Place

Observing the Asian landscape, Bisaria has been unable to ignore the issues of poverty and disadvantage in the social fabric. His last exhibition in 2009 saw all sale proceeds (after deducting only the cost of the frame and print) going towards worthy charities, and he plans to do the same this year. Proceeds from A Point of View – Asian, Still will be donated to two charities that Bisaria has selected – Bishan Home for the Intellectually Challenged (Singapore) and Agape School and Orphanage (Thailand/Myanmar border)

On his appointed charities, he says, “When I go [to Bishan Home], I am always struck by the fact that the residents as well as the staff look happy. I also realise the practical issues around caring for adults with disabilities, so Bishan Home is not just providing care for them but also a valuable service for their families. [I chose] Agape because I wanted to support a children’s effort somewhere in the Indo-China region. Agape is really the effort of a handful of dedicated people who are providing shelter against extreme odds for about a 150 orphaned or abandoned kids. Their plight really brings out the relative value of money – 50 cents can provide a meal!”

A Point of View – Asian, Still will be held at the Gallery at The Arts House from February 22 to 26, 2012. Click here for more details.