The name Bobby Luo should be familiar with partygoers—particularly those who clubbed in the heyday at the now-defunct Butter Factory, which Luo had a hand in founding. But the disc jockey and party organiser (who is kept busy with pop-up parties Mismatch and Yum Yum Disco Dong these days) is more than just a rave man. The openly out 48-year-old creative has long dabbled in design and art, even opening his own fashion boutique Superspace back in 2014. He’s also a prominent advocate of LGBTQ rights in Singapore, and a recognised figure in the community. Now, his latest project explores the intersections of all his pet hobbies.
FREAKDOM: The Book is a kaleidescope of art, fashion, uniqueness and plain old joy. Born out of a year-long daily art project on Instagram, the queer photo art book had started as an attempt for Luo to visually archive his wardrobe in 2017.
The limited-edition publication serves up 365 different looks worn by Luo himself, giving comment on art, fashion, politics, and contemporary socio-cultural phenomena. On the pages are looks personally designed and styled by Luo, and photographed by his partner Ritz Lim—each print fabulous and camp enough to put this year’s Met Gala theme to shame. Celebrating uniqueness and individualism, the visually stimulating book more importantly highlights the marginalised and the underground, aiming to give voice to the outcasts—or as Luo says, “queerdoes”—of the world.
Alongside the official book launch on May 17, Luo has put together Chateau Haute Glue, a 10-day installation of art and fashion for fans and visitors to poke around. Running from May 17-28 at Dover Street Market Singapore, the two-meter-tall installation will be made of collectibles from Luo’s personal collection, copies of the book, as well as Freakdom merchandise likes T-shirts and tote bags. And keep your hands to yourself; all the merch will be available for purchase after, while 20 exclusive pieces from the art installation will be raffled off to buyers of the book at the end of the exhibition.
Just 500 copies are up for grabs at $45 a book; so act fast.
Huat The Huat
Smells Like Queen Spirit
Wood You Hold It Against Me
I Am Not Charlie Brown On Acid I Am Not Charlie Brown On Acid I Am Not Charlie Brown On Acid (Bart’s Birthday)
FREAKDOM: The Book launches May 17 online and at Dover Street Market Singapore, 18 Dempsey Road. More information here.
