Studio Mobile: A Journey in Portraiture

Maleonn's Mobile Studio Captures the Essence of China's Diverse Population

The inspiration for Studio Mobile came at a challenging time for Maleonn. His studio in Shanghai was torn down, prompting him to convert his workspace into a mobile one. The idea was to create a project that would connect with ordinary people, reflecting a popular lifestyle trend from China's early days. The mobile photo studio, which offers free portraits to strangers, is Maleonn's unique way of giving back to society through his art.

Studio Mobile is not just a mobile studio; it's a journey. The project took seven months of preparation and spanned over 10 months of travel. Maleonn and his team visited 35 cities in a battered truck and a minivan, capturing 1,600 portraits of diverse subjects, from tank drivers and police officers to Tang dynasty scholars. The subjects either dressed in clothes from Maleonn’s van or brought their own outfits, adding a personal touch to each portrait.

The unique properties of this project lie in its simplicity and authenticity. Maleonn provides the clothing and props, then takes a photograph. The aim is to convey pure romance and kindness, a refreshing departure from the digital era. Participants receive their printed photos onsite, a tangible memory of their encounter with the artist. The project also fosters a sense of community, with at least eight people per city providing food, accommodation, and workspace for Maleonn and his team.

Studio Mobile is more than a service; it's a form of communication and connection. Throughout the journey, participants gave back many things to Maleonn, fulfilling his intention of connecting to the world. This reciprocal exchange between the artist and the subjects is what makes Studio Mobile a unique and impactful project.

The project's innovation and creativity have not gone unnoticed. Studio Mobile was awarded the Silver A' Photography and Photo Manipulation Design Award in 2017. This prestigious accolade is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation, strong technical characteristics, and remarkable artistic skill. Studio Mobile undoubtedly fits this description, showcasing a level of excellence that inspires amazement and wonder.