Singapore, 15th September 2006 - Epson, a world leader in digital imaging and printing solutions, today announced the official opening of its latest photo exhibition - 'Preserved Nature' - by local photographer and Master Printmaker Chris Yap. 

'Preserved Nature' aims to showcase the intimate interaction between nature and humans.  The exhibition revolves around the two sub-themes of 'Starting' and 'Final Part'.  Comprising of photographs of nature, 'Starting' focuses on preservation and the perception of nature.  Even though some of the subjects are already lifeless, the images still convey a distinct sense of beauty and identity.  'Final Part' is intended to remind audiences of the human reactions to and with nature.  Through both sections, preservation is explored in its most natural sense.

In explaining the themes, Chris Yap said, "Nature and mankind are complex subjects.  Despite our differences, we still need to go through the same cycle of life - from birth, to maturity and eventually death.  Through 'Preserved Nature', I hope to convince viewers that every moment with nature is a moment worth preserving." 

'Preserved Nature' is the only photography exhibition by a local artist at Singapore Biennale 2006, Singapore's first visual arts biennale organised by the National Arts Council and National Heritage Board of Singapore. 

Ms Kimberly Ong, epSITE's Manager, said, "We are thrilled for 'Preserved Nature' to be selected as one of the exhibitions of the inaugural Singapore Biennale.  This is testimony to Chris's artistic reputation, epSITE's standing as a venue for major events, and Epson's contribution to the international arts community."

Chris added, "As a Master Printmaker, I am a strong believer that the quality of output is as important as the input.  Thanks to Epson's commitment to sharing their technology and expertise in digital imaging, printmakers like myself can produce our art as we envisage." 

'Preserved Nature' will open with 'Starting', which happens from 16 September to 5 October 2006.  It will be followed by 'Final Part', which will run from 6 October to 31 October 2006.   The exhibition will be on-show at epSITE in Wheelock Place and is open to public daily from 11am to 8pm.  Admission is free.  For more information, please contact epSITE at 6736 4986.
 
Chris Yap's bio
Chris Yap has been teaching photography, digital workflow and image archiving at many educational and corporate institutions in Singapore and in the region.  Some of his clients include Nanyang Technological University, National Library Board, National Archives of Singapore, and Objectifs - Centre for Photography and Filmmaking.

As a printmaker, Chris had been instrumental in the establishment and management of Singapore's pioneering digital imaging processing studio.  He helped develop standards for the digitising process for National Archives of Singapore, where he customised an ISO system for managing over one million recorded images.

Chris has also been appointed as judge at several international photography competitions including the Nikon Photography Contest in Tokyo and the Noise Festival in Singapore.  He has produced fine art prints that have been exhibited at the Month of Photography 2004, the SARS exhibition at the Singapore History Museum and other photography shows around the world.  For samples of his work, please visit www.chrisyapphotography.com