Education
Urasenke Chanoyu Center (Japanese Tea-Ceremony). New York, New York.
M.A. Domus Academy. Milan, Italy.
A.I.A. The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (Interior Design major). Los Angeles, California.
N.D. The London College of Fashion. London, England.
Catholic High School, Singapore
Working History
Art / Design Consultant / Fashion Designer
1995 - Present
Directing design of exclusive made-to-measure women’s couture collections. Designing for private client in New York and California
Designer/Owner of Women’s ready-to-wear “Almost All Year Round” Collection.
Asian Art Private Dealer
1996 - Present
Handle unique antique textiles and costumes for wear and display in the household.
Specializing in antique utilitarian Oriental tea and dishware ceramics (for private collectors & museums) under name Richard Gien Art Consultant.
New York, New York
Artistic Director / Interior Design Consultant
1994 - 2006
Environmental design: assist in selection and integration of Oriental antiques and contemporary objects into home or office space
JGS Inc. New York, New York
Private Chef
1994-2006
Offer unique culinary experiences, incorporating spiritual or ceremonial aspects of dining into specially selected and lovingly prepared foods
JGS Inc. New York, New York
Assistant Curator of Photography
1994 -1998
Catalogued extensive 19th & 20th century photography collection
Camera Works Inc. New York, New York.
Fashion Designer
1991
Created articulate detail for embroidery application for women’s ready-to-wear
collections.
Krizia S.P.A. Milan, Italy.
Fashion Pattern Drafter
1987 - 1988
Designing women’s ready-to-wear collections.
Benny Ong International. London, England.
Assistant Fashion Designer
1985 - 1987
Designed women’s ready-to-wear collections.
Thomas Wee & Mixables Fashion. Singapore.
Fashion Designer
1985 - 1987
Designed women’s ready-to-wear collections.
First Stop Pte Ltd. Singapore.
Fashion Designer
1985 - 1987
Designed both men’s and women’s ready-to-wear collections
Yaohan & Isetan Stores. Singapore.
Assistant Fashion Designer
1983 - 1985
Designed women’s ready-to-wear “Rest & Relax” collection.
Metro & Tangs Stores. Singapore
Personal
Born Singapore
Languages Spoken: English, Mandarin (Cantonese), Italian
Community Contribution
Creative Projects Tutor
2007
Artistic / emotional guiding of students ( with parents ) through the final graduation projects / presentations
Clinton School For Writers and Artists. New York, New York