PHUNK is a contemporary art and design collective based in Singapore. Alvin Tan (b. 1974), Melvin Chee (b. 1974), Jackson Tan (b. 1974) and William Chan (b. 1973) are 4 Singaporean artists/designers. They met in Lasalle College of the Arts, Singapore and came together in 1994 to form :phunk studio. Described as "The Champion of Singapore's Graphic Scene" (Creative Review, UK), "Asia's hottest agency" (Computer Arts, UK) and "iconic representatives of the new wave of young Asian creators" (Get it Louder, China). They have propagated a visual signature that seamlessly blends and reinterprets their diverse influences such as traditional Chinese craft and folklore, Hong Kong's wuxia fiction, Japanese manga and otaku subculture, Western popular culture,art and design movements into a singular creative thought that reflects their multi-cultural identity, background and environment. The concept of "universality" in the age of modern globalization is a constant theme in their works. PHUNK has collaborated and worked with international brands such as Nike, Nokia, MTV, Daimler Chrysler, Comme des Garcon, Levis, Tiger Beer and Salem. Their works are featured in many international publications and awarded in various design award shows. One of their artworks titled 'Electricity' was cited in the book, 'Graphic Design, A New History' as "Instances of truly global graphic design". They were awarded "Designer of the Year" in 2007 by the President's Design Award, the highest accolade for designers in Singapore. They have exhibited and lectured extensively around the world. They represented Singapore at the Gwangju Design Biennale 2005 and the London Design Festival 2006. The Singapore History Museum hosted their 10 year retrospective exhibition 'A Decade of Decadence' in 2005.
