It’s futile feigning indifference to commercial and fine art photographer Craig Phang Sang. His engagement is always memorable, his subjects engaging and his passion infectious. His imprimatur always black and white.

Imagine, then, being sent an absolutely breathtaking image in a blaze of colour. That’s right, colour: as in Trini Carnival spectacular. Allegedly by the man you’ve associated with old world method-acting of Hollywood: the glory days of James Dean, Greta Garbo, Bette Davis, et al. Indeed, his professional life started in 1980 and since then he has actively been a part of the motion picture, ProVideo and broadcast industries in various technical and creative capacities and currently sells the equipment and services to his industry in Jamaica.

It took some time to make the call to confirm that our beloved Phang Sang had not only added colour to black and white photography — one of the original art forms — but that he had expanded his portfolio to, in his own words, “introduce a series of images that combine the art of paint and photography in colour”.

The work, which is visually arresting, uses live models. “We paint directly on the skin,” explained Phang Sang, “intentionally preserving the texture of the paint, so that when carefully photographed and printed on artistic canvas creates a beautiful piece of art.”

If like us you’re still picking your jaw up from the floor, don’t feel too badly; this direction is a mere week old but has piqued the imagination of many. In fact, the entire collection is headed for an exclusive boutique hotel.

Interpret this to mean: buy now — it’s the perfect Christmas gift!