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[Art Affairs] Nanyang: A Private Selling Exhibition

Written by  Sarah Abu Bakar
Curate celebrated the best of Nanyang art in a unique and almost sold-out show titled Nanyang: A Private Selling Exhibition, which showcased some of the finest masterpieces by pioneering Malaysian and Singaporean artists. The travelling exhibition greeted art enthusiasts across the crossway from 31 July to 3 August 2014 at artspace@222, Singapore, and returned home to Kuala Lumpur from 6 August until 22 August 2014 at Curate, SENI Mont’ Kiara.
 
Nanyang or ‘Southern Seas’ is a term originally coined in the late 1920s by literary intelligentsia to indicate contemporary Chinese narratives written based on local subjects. A synthesis of Eastern and Western art, the Nanyang style reflects the tropical mood of the region.
 
This exhibition is a survey of works by a selection of artists who had advocated the spirit of regionalism in depicting scenic landscapes of a new and faraway homeland and adoringly capture local essences by incorporating Chinese art with Western techniques.
 
Aimed to highlight connections and coherence, this show aimed to encourage viewers to develop their own understanding of the Nanyang style thus promoting continuity emotionally and culturally in preserving the history of our region. This exclusive exhibition also provided an opportunity for discerning collectors to acquire and possess a precious piece of history.
 
Masterpieces by first generation Chinese artists such as Lee Cheng Yong and Khaw Sia were displayed alongside artists and/or graduates affiliated to the prestigious Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts namely Yong Mun Sen, Tan Choon Ghee, Kuo Ju Ping, Khoo Sui Hoe, Ho Khay Beng, Tew Nai Tong and artists who have studied and practised art in the West such as Eng Tay, Chia Yu Chian and many more. 


*An accompanying catalogue with texts by Sarah Abu Bakar and Emelia Ong in dual language (English and Chinese) is available for sale at Curate.




Last modified on Thursday, 04 December 2014 04:28