.jpg?w=1)
Lot Essay
A pivotal figure in the bourgeoning art scene of the 50s and 60s in Singapore, Chen Wen Hsi was part of the group of pioneer artists who set out to discover and depict a uniquely 'Southeast Asian' form of artistic expression. Chen was also in attendance at the Xin Hua Academy of Fine Art in Shanghai in 1930, where he was contemporaries with the likes of Liu Kang and Chen Chong Swee - with whom he would continue to produce art alongside following their migration to Singapore. The trademarks of Chen's style fall into two broad categories - Chinese ink painting focused on the flora and fauna of the region, and abstract works executed on paper and canvas.
Gibbons reflects a signature example of Chen's gibbon ink paintings, as he contrasts his meticulous execution of the gibbons against a dynamic, swift rendition of the background mountains and bamboo. The essential elements of brush painting, such as keen brushwork and boldness in execution, are maintained. However the linear flow is truncated into modernist angles and the field of composition reflects Chen's trademark 'chaotic' elements, where he juxtaposes various painting traditions into a coherent and new visual dynamic.
Herons displays a theme that Chen becomes fascinated with all through the later part of his life. This variation utilises the classical Chinese brush and ink on paper, but with a western, abstract twist. The interlocking lines and sudden directional change of brushstrokes offset the two-dimensionality of the bold flat streaks of colour. These interlocking herons exist in undefined space, as a flattened, all-over composition without any outer boundaries; yet this interchangeable treatment of solid and void produces infinite depth.
Sparrows is an exceptional work of its genre as well. Another favourite animal subject of his, Sparrows is a painting that demonstrates the height of Chen's ink technique, as well as nostalgia for the Chinese aesthetic. The sparrows sit peacefully on the branches or fly around, showcasing Chen's unrestrained and bold strokes, creating a simplicity and sense of peace and harmony. The anatomical accuracy and liveliness of the animals illustrates further as well Chen's lifelong observation and love for his animal subjects.
Squirrels completes the different series of Chen’s favourite ink animal subjects featured. Two squirrels bound and scamper playfully across vines filled with lush flowers, in a scene that conveys an overall feeling of joy, as well as an appreciation for the beauty and delicacy of nature. There is a sense of the vigour and movement captured in the expressive ink strokes. Indeed, Chen's prolific animal paintings have come to be iconic to the region - referencing the unique quality of tropical life through the traditional medium of ink on paper.
Gibbons reflects a signature example of Chen's gibbon ink paintings, as he contrasts his meticulous execution of the gibbons against a dynamic, swift rendition of the background mountains and bamboo. The essential elements of brush painting, such as keen brushwork and boldness in execution, are maintained. However the linear flow is truncated into modernist angles and the field of composition reflects Chen's trademark 'chaotic' elements, where he juxtaposes various painting traditions into a coherent and new visual dynamic.
Herons displays a theme that Chen becomes fascinated with all through the later part of his life. This variation utilises the classical Chinese brush and ink on paper, but with a western, abstract twist. The interlocking lines and sudden directional change of brushstrokes offset the two-dimensionality of the bold flat streaks of colour. These interlocking herons exist in undefined space, as a flattened, all-over composition without any outer boundaries; yet this interchangeable treatment of solid and void produces infinite depth.
Sparrows is an exceptional work of its genre as well. Another favourite animal subject of his, Sparrows is a painting that demonstrates the height of Chen's ink technique, as well as nostalgia for the Chinese aesthetic. The sparrows sit peacefully on the branches or fly around, showcasing Chen's unrestrained and bold strokes, creating a simplicity and sense of peace and harmony. The anatomical accuracy and liveliness of the animals illustrates further as well Chen's lifelong observation and love for his animal subjects.
Squirrels completes the different series of Chen’s favourite ink animal subjects featured. Two squirrels bound and scamper playfully across vines filled with lush flowers, in a scene that conveys an overall feeling of joy, as well as an appreciation for the beauty and delicacy of nature. There is a sense of the vigour and movement captured in the expressive ink strokes. Indeed, Chen's prolific animal paintings have come to be iconic to the region - referencing the unique quality of tropical life through the traditional medium of ink on paper.