Dr Ho Kah Leong is an honorary advisor of the Singapore Art Society, under his guidance; the society has made signif-icant progress, organized key events that contribute to the development of the local art scene. His service is highly commendable and well appreciated.
Despite the ripe age of 81, Dr Ho hardly rests on his laurels; instead, he has revisited his long passion of woodcut prints in recent years. With the information that he has gathered, he painstakingly carved 42 artworks for this special exhibi-tion. All of which bring out the liveliness and the uniqueness of the characters in their environment. His choice of retain-ing the classic style of black and white woodcut prints further highlight the vibrancy and distinctiveness of each print.
Dr Ho is deeply concerned and emotional about the refugee crisis happening in different parts of the world. With these thoughts in mind, he carved out multiple scenarios that look to evoke strong sentiments from viewers and influence them to discuss greater societal problems that are in occurrence. The motivations behind these works of art are not only starkly different from those he had whilst painting scenes of Nanyang but more importantly, they embody his hopes for a better world.
Titled Passion Rejuvenated, this exhibition contemplates on Dr Ho’s continued inquisitiveness and fondness for wood-cut prints. Additionally, it expresses his hopes for this art form to rediscover the recognition and importance that it once had.
The landmark showcase will feature 30 portraits of fellow artists, 6 woodcut prints of socialism and rural lifestyle dated back from 1957 to 1980 and 6 pieces of refugee series will be exhibited in this solo woodcut exhibition. Dr Ho Kah Leong’s intention to inspire young artists on woodcut art making as well to inform the public and bring social commen-tary on the reflection of the plight of refugees.
Venue: Cape of Good Hope Art Gallery, 231 Bain Street #03-17, Bras Basah Complex, Singapore 180231
When: 29 Sep - 6 Oct 2018,
By: Cape of Good Hope Art Gallery
