At times, these collections of photographs will also run in random sequences, beyond the control of our subjective or categorical tendencies. The idea is that we can sometimes learn more from our research when we have less control: the random sequences can give rise to understandings that elude us when we organise our materials to support our preconceived theories.
The most important aspect of 1000 Asia is the notion that cities cannot be explained by few selected photographs. Instead, the indefinable reality of its overwhelming complexity can only be captured by a virtually unlimited number of images. This less editorial approach to the depiction of cities is consistent with the immense multiplicity of images collected and consumed by the public in the age of digital photography, which goes far beyond the older urban photography once dominated by professionals. Urban images are increasingly matters of public consumption and contribution, and 1000 Asia reflects the public, globalising representations of cities today.
