Becoming

Chloë Shia

Becoming tells the story of the fictional fashion magazine, Fragment, in which the model exists only for consumption by the viewer outside of the magazine world. When she is forced to confront her own reflection for the first time, the model becomes aware of the system she has been placed in and gains the authority to change how she is perceived. In a final act of self-definition and rebellion, she steps out of the frame altogether, no longer bound to a consumable image.

The photographs of the model are juxtaposed with abstract and textured scans of jewelry and fashion accessories—objects of beauty and self-expression through personal style. Through the process of scanning, the elements that shape her identity are flattened, obscured, and repeated, reflecting the less glamorous side of the fashion industry and advertising as a whole. The media’s influence and gaze shifts how we represent ourselves, both in real life and in a digital space, turning our identities into marketable brands. It is important to reflect on who or what has the agency over our own representation, and what the dangers of ignoring that might be.

With this project, I want to turn the gaze inward and ask myself: morally, can I pursue commercial photography while thoughtfully critiquing the system it functions in? In the context of fashion and media, where models are often instrumentalized to serve commercial or aesthetic purposes, how does my role as a photographer influence the way they are represented? In what ways can the models assert agency within or against this system? If this is the starting point, where can I go from here?

About The Artist

Chloë Shia

Chloë Shia is a Toronto-based photographer specializing in commercial, editorial, and live performance photography. She approaches each project with care and curiosity, creating imagery that feels authentic and resonates with a range of audiences. Recent recognitions include the Paul Semple Memorial Award and the Roloff Beny Foundation Photography Award through Toronto Metropolitan University's Image Arts program. She is receiving a BFA in Photography Media Arts, and a minor in French Language. She also completed a semester exchange at the University of the Arts London, expanding her creative storytelling through new perspectives and experiences.

As the Project and Operations Manager for Max Ex 31, Chloë is very passionate about collaboration and bringing creative visions to life. Her photography has been featured in group shows in both Toronto and London, in publications such as Billboard Canada, and in magazines, including Function, Rebelle Zine, and Calibrator. Alongside her freelance work, she is also a social media content manager, combining photo and video to create strong, cohesive visuals that enhance brand identity and expand reach.

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