Seah Kang Chui, Emerald Hill, Watercolour on paper, 56 x 76 cm
Watercolour Landscapes at artcommune is an extensive exhibition featuring over 20 works spanning the period of 1952 to 2016 by notable Singapore watercolour artists: Chen Chong Swee, Lim Cheng Hoe, Gog Sing Hooi, Chan Chang How, Hua Chai Yong, Leng Joon Wong, Low Puay Hua, Ong Kim Seng, Peh Eng Seng, Seah Kang Chui, Tong Chin Sye and Thomas Yeo. The paintings by Chen Chong Swee, Lim Cheng Hoe, Gog Sing Hooi from the period of the 1950s – 1980s, are especially rare to be available for commercial display.
The tradition of watercolour painting was introduced in Malaya in as early as the 18th century through the works of British maritime artists who eagerly recorded topographical and botanical details relating to the Malaysian landscape. The watercolour medium subsequently flourished in Malaya with the inception of English public schools for the locals – often founded upon Victorian education models that propagated English sensibility in art and literature. Much has been written about Sir Richard Walker’s arrival in Singapore in 1923 and the important role he undertook as the Art Superintendent of English public schools. Among the students he taught and encouraged in watercolour activity was Lim Cheng Hoe, whose dedicated pursuit of British watercolour style on local landscapes made him one of Singapore’s most important pioneer watercolourists. Additionally, Watercolour painting was among the mediums offered at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts where many second-generation local artists honed their skills.
Chen Chong Swee, Lim Cheng Hoe, Gog Sing Hooi and Leng Joon Wong were among the 13 founding members who formed the Singapore Watercolour Society in 1969. The watercolours in this exhibition reflect different styles and methods practised by our local watercolourists, ranging from British broad translucent brush style to detailed mixed body-colour wash.
Art Talk & Demonstration of Watercolour by Artist Khor Ean Ghee: 24 September 2017, 3 – 4 pm
In conjunction with the exhibition, artcommune is hosting an art talk on the history of Singapore Watercolour Society as well as a demonstration of watercolour by one of the Society’s founding members Khor Ean Ghee. Mr. Khor, who is formerly an interior designer at the nascent Housing and Development Board was also the designer behind Singapore’s iconic “Dragon” playground. Admission is free but registration is required via valerie@artcommune.com.sg.
Exhibition Period: 16 – 27 September 2017
Time: 12 – 7pm (daily)
Venue: artcommune gallery, 231 Bain Street, Bras Basah Complex #03-39, Singapore 180231
When: 16 - 27 Sep 2017,
