Among the themes for which Khaw Sia is renowned for are his sumptuous still-life arrangements, which shows the dynamic interplay of shape, form, and texture. Distinctive within his still life paintings is the incorporation of Chinese cultural motifs, such as the chrysanthemum, a flower associated with nobility and perseverance. The work features a meticulous coordination of elements such as lobster, crab, and blossoms in a harmonious display.    Born in Shanghai, Khaw Sia studied at the Sin Hwa Academy before receiving private training under Sir Russell Flint in England in 1933. He made his solo debut in Penang in 1955, and soon after gained international recognition with awards from Le Salon in Paris (1956), the 14th Annual Summer Salon at the Royal Institute Galleries, London (1957), and the National Society’s 25th Exhibition in England (1958). A member of the American Orchid Society, Khaw Sia is renowned for his exquisite orchid paintings. His deep passion for the subject led him to travel widely across Taiwan, Philippines, Hong Kong, Thailand, and Indonesia in search of rare species for his garden and immortalised in delicate works on paper.