Exhibition Period: March 2011
Venue: iPRECIATION Singapore

iPRECIATION is proud to present the important collection of a Singapore Pioneer artist, in March 2011. A renowned Nanyang artist, Cheong Soo Pieng (b. 1917 to 1983) made significant contributions to the development of art education in Singapore. Born in China’s Fujian province, he studied at the Xiamen Academy of Fine Arts from 1933 to 1935, and continued his artistic training at the Xin Hua Art Academy in Shanghai. He moved to Singapore in 1946, and was invited by the principal of the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), Lim Hak Tai to teach at NAFA. By the time he settled in Singapore, Cheong was already a skilled artist, adept in his experimentation with the methods and materials of ink painting; He also inspired and guided many students, some of whom became established artists.

An important moment in Cheong’s artistic career, was his travels to Bali with three other artists, namely Chen Chong Swee, Chen Wen His and Liu Kang, in 1952. There they remained for 5 months, and the artist’s fascination with the exotic, charismatic island, deeply influence the way he, and the other artists portrayed Southeast Asia.

In 1959 and 1961, Cheong also travelled to Sarawak and Sabah respectively. In 1961, he embarked on a tour to Europe, to form acquaintance with the developing contemporary art movement. In Europe he spent 2 years, and within this time frame, held 2 successful exhibitions in London and Munich. In 1962, he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal by the Singapore government.

This showcase is the first major gallery exhibition held, since the artist’s passing in 1983; and features a myriad of works created throughout his career. These works will be showcased to the public for the first time.

For further enquiries or to arrange for a private preview, please contact +65 6339 0678.