Chieu developed this unique art form by mixing etching and dyeing on metal sheets. The technique is similar to that of etching. Instead of using the master plate to print, Chieu uses it as a work of art. Chieu's work is rich in textural qualities.

Chieu worked as a visualiser in an advertising agency for 24 years, he patterned his life as art director in the agency by day and an artist at night.

"I enjoyed my work in the advertising agency immensely. All along I was lucky to be given a reasonable free hand by the creative directors. I made fine art the focus of my graphic designs, giving priority to creativity and experimentation. They appealed to our clients. This approach meant my designs and paintings or metal reliefs fused easily with one another.

More and more of my ideas come out in low relief ie aluminum, copper, copper enamel, steel and zinc. They have a life of their own in light. They are more complete than anything I have done in the past. Experimentation is obviously important as it is through his concepts, the artist has much to gain through the exploration of media and materials. But the artist must guard against preconceived solutions. I find endless possibilities working with metal.

In Singapore, if an artist sticks to only one form of art, he will have difficulty making living out of it. The answer, I believe, is to be able to tackle the different mediums. Indeed, the artist must always bear in mind the collector's needs. Discerning collectors look for uniqueness in ideas and application."