Retrospective 1950s-2020s

Synopsis

In this combined showcase, Koeh Sia Yong's "Retrospective" and Lee Choon Kee's "The Journeyman" offer a unique perspective on Singapore's rich history and cultural heritage, aligning seamlessly with the themes of Singapore Art Week by celebrating the nation's artistic legacy. The Koeh Sia Yong Art Museum serves as a permanent home to over 200 of Koeh's artworks, showcasing some of his finest pieces. Born in 1938 during World War II, Koeh's life and art have been shaped by constant change. His work aligns with the Nanyang style, which blends Western painting techniques learned at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts with Singaporean subjects. Though Koeh works in various mediums, his Singapore oil paintings best reflect his artistic vision, capturing the nation's journey from a former colony to a modern state. Guided by the philosophy that "life is subject matter," Koeh's art provides valuable insights into Singapore's socio-historical evolution.