Von Wong Jumps out of a Box to Surprise a Fan

Noted conceptual photographer Benjamin Von Wong has been captivating his audience for years with his imaginative imagery. So when Von Wong showed up to Australia gift-wrapped in box to surprise one of his biggest fans for their birthday, was it really so strange? Nevertheless, the tale of how Von Wong ended up meeting his super fan Tyler Grace is actually more thoughtful and heartfelt than one might expect.

A year ago, Grace reached out to Von Wong with a comment detailing his ongoing struggle with chronic illnesses that constantly has him visiting the hospital. As an aspiring photographer, Grace was compelled to let Von Wong know just how much of an inspiration he and his images were. “Even on the days when I can’t get out of bed or am stuck at the hospital/doctors appointments I am planning out my next shoots and this again is all thanks to you!” Grace wrote.

With Grace’s 21st birthday approaching in early March, his sister contacted Von Wong about possibly meeting Tyler as the ultimate gift. Unfortunately, it seemed that their meeting would have to be limited to the form of a personalized video message. But when it struck Von Wong that it was in the realm of possibilities to actually fly over to meet Grace in person, he set out to make it happen. Watch the video above and see Grace’s stunned reaction to meeting Von Wong at his front door:

You can read more about the set up and the time they spent together on the blogs of Von Wong and Tyler Grace.

Images used with permission.