Meet Chen Man, the fashion photographer who just sparked controversy in China with her Lady Dior work – and who’s also snapped celebrities like David Beckham and Fan Bingbing

Nov 19 , 2021

Celebrity photographer Chen Man, pictured here posing with a Piaget watch, recently came under fire for her work in the Lady Dior exhibition in Shanghai in November. Photo: @chenman/Instagram

Luxury brand Piaget chose Chen as part of its Extraordinary Women campaign in 2020 with Crazy Rich Asians star Constance Wu and K-drama actress Gong Hyo-jin

Chen’s Beijing-based Studio 6 has produced advertising campaigns for Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Adidas, Converse, Puma, Budweiser, Maybelline, Guess and more

Chen Man is a modern contemporary photographer, visual artist and creative director who has captivated the world with her unique and vivid artistic expression. Known for her hyperrealistic techniques, her works have a distinctive style, often displaying a bold, colourful and surreal atmosphere that leaves a strong impression on viewers.

Most recently, a piece of hers came under fire by Chinese state media and netizens alike for its portrayal of Asian women. The photo was originally displayed at the Lady Dior exhibition at the West Bund Art Centre in Shanghai, which is running until November 23 – but the brand eventually removed it.

This isn’t the only time Chen has sparked debate. Here’s everything you need to know about the talented and prolific creator.

Chen is world-renowned photographer

Fashion photographer Chen Man has landed covers for Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and Elle. Photo: @chenman/Instagram

The 41-year-old has been professionally honing her craft for almost 18 years. She graduated from the Central Academy of Fine Arts, one of China’s most prestigious art schools. At the age of 23, she began creating covers for the Chinese art magazine Vision. Since then, her distinct style has taken the fashion industry by storm. She has landed covers for famous magazines such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and Elle, as well as working with high fashion brands like Dior.

Chen’s work has also been exhibited worldwide in places like Paris, London, Los Angeles and Tokyo, and she has even photographed numerous celebrities, from Fan Bingbing to David Beckham.

Her art provokes strong opinions

One of Chen Man’s controversial photographs for i-D Magazine in 2012. Photo: @chenman/Instagram