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How many times have you seen a fit and sexy shirtless guy in the mainstream media? Adverts, commercials, film, and TV? Now, how many of them have been Asian? The truth is, while it may be slowly changing, its still quite rare to have a non-Caucasian front and center, and even more rare for it to be an Asian man.
"We are so used to seeing these absurd and offensive stereotypes about Asian men, whether its. the comedic role with an exaggerated accent or the computer/science nerd. We have been fed this image and idea that somehow Asian men are lesser than their non-Asian counterparts and undesirable. Through my own eyes and art, I find that ridiculous and unacceptable and want to break that stereotype."
Photographer West Phillips has spent the past few years traveling the world, chasing adventure, and finding what seems to be an endless supply of handsome and fit subjects to photograph. Having worked with various modeling agencies and underwear brands, he has built his name around photographing physique and fitness models from Miami to Taipei.
In his first book, Asian Male Portraits, Phillips focuses his lens on what he feels is an underrepresented and underestimated minority in Western media - the Asian male. Featuring photos from the beginning of his career to some of his newest work, the book captures stunning models in a variety of artistic settings, inviting the viewer to take some time and admire the beauty. With over 100 models from over 10 countries, this book is a sort of "best of collection from what Phillips has amassed so far.