Dialogue Session
with Dr. John Chia and Dr. Cheryl Loh / Goh Chun Aik / Theresia Irma

What draws us to collect photographs? And how does collecting shape the wider ecosystem that artists, galleries and institutions depend on?

This dialogue brings together collectors, artists and gallery professionals for an open conversation about building a photography collection today.

Joining us are Dr John Chia and Cheryl Loh, Singapore-based collectors of contemporary art; Goh Chun Aik, a gallery professional whose practice moves fluidly between photography, installation and institutional critique; and Theresia Irma, Gallery Manager at Mizuma Gallery and Chair of Ethics & Practice at the Art Galleries Association Singapore.

The conversation is moderated by Gwen Lee, Artistic Director of Singapore International Photography and DECK Photography Art Centre.

Together, they explore what it means to collect image-based works—from the motivations behind a first acquisition to the questions of care, context and long-term stewardship that follow.

Whether you are an experienced collector or simply curious about starting a collection, this session offers practical insights into the world of photography collecting, and an opportunity to consider how our choices as collectors can shape the artistic ecosystem around us.