THE SHOPHOUSE EDITION: SINGAPORE ART TREASURES EXHIBITION

ABOUT THIS EXHIBITION

An exhibition showcasing fine artworks by Singapore’s first and second-generation artists based in Singapore, this event presents 35 unique pieces that span Singapore’s artistic legacy. Featuring artists like Lim Tze Peng, Zhu Hong, Mohammad Din Mohammad and more. The exhibition celebrates the evolution of local art through works that reflect both the heritage and innovation of Singapore’s art scene. Visitors are invited to view and acquire these remarkable pieces, gaining a glimpse into the diverse expressions and styles that define generations of Singaporean artistry.

Asia Art Collective presents – The Shophouse Edition: Singapore Art Treasures as an art exhibition presented at two shophouses. A first-of-its-kind collaboration with Figment – the art exhibition is hosted at one of its award-winning shophouses designed by Linghao Architects which won the URA Heritage Award (Category B) and another secret shophouse location to be unlocked upon entry at the first location.

Featuring a fine art collection of forty paintings by more than ten eminent first and second-generation artists including Chen Wen Hsi, Cheong Soo Pieng, Wu Tsai Yen, Pan Shou, Choo Keng Kwang, Chua Ek Kay, and Foo Chee San and others; and a range of fine artworks by other artists featured, such as Chen Chong Swee, Fan Chang Tien, Mohammad Din Mohammad, Pang Teng Kun, Ng Yew Hock, Phua Cheng Phue. A total of forty artworks will be exhibited, with works dating from 1980’s to the late 2000’s, ranging from Chinese ink, calligraphy, to oil painting works.; Be firstly greeted with a curated art collection of expressive calligraphy artworks by Lim Tze Peng juxtaposed with the vibrant, boldy-expressive oil paintings by third-generation artist Zhu Hong upon entry to the art exhibition through the Figment shophouse at 11 Lorong 24A Geylang.

FEATURED ARTISTS’ BIOGRAPHY & ARTWORKS

Artist: Lim Tze Peng
Cursive script
Widely known as Singapore’s most celebrated second generation artist and centenarian – Lim Tze Peng’s achievements in his art can be seen by his diverse art styles and innovation. His cursive script calligraphy also known as “糊涂字” beautifully fused the tradition of Chinese calligraphy with abstract expressionism. Exhibiting at the same time with “Becoming Lim Tze Peng” at the National Gallery Singapore, which showcases selected works from public art collections, this exhibit of works from private collections allows the public to view and admire his calligraphy works from the 2000’s.
Artist: Zhu Hong (b.1967)
Geylang – 46cm x 61cm (exhibited)
With third generation artist Zhu Hong’s vibrant and expressionistic oil painting works of Singapore shophouses displayed with Lim Tze Peng’s calligraphy, viewers can admire the different but equally bold styles of the two artists.
phua cheng phue singaporean artist
balinese woman phua cheng phue

A first-generation Singaporean artist, Phua Cheng Phue passed away in 2004 at the age of 70. His works will also be featured in the exhibition.

chen wen hsi singaporean artist
chen wen hsi hens

One of Singapore’s most prominent pioneer artists, Chen Wen Hsi passed away in 1991 at the age of 85. His oil painting <PASAR> set a record at Sotheby’s Hong Kong in 2013, fetching $2.2 million, the highest auction price for a first-generation Singaporean artist. Chen is known for his unique style blending Western art techniques with Chinese brushwork.

wu tsai yen singaporean artist
wu tsai yen swimming fishes

A master of finger painting from Singapore’s first generation, Wu Tsai Yan passed away in 2001 at the age of 90. His works have appeared at multiple auctions, with prices ranging from $130 to $18,646.

First & Second Generations’ ARTIST ARTWORKS

One of the artists featured in this exhibition is Wu Tsai Yen who is a Singaporean pioneer artist well-known for his mastery of finger painting. Lesser known than some of his famous contemporaries Chen Wen Hsi and Cheong Soo Pieng, Wu Tsai Yen graduated from the Xinhua Academy of Art in 1933, and became the most important exponent of finger painting in Singapore. In this exhibition, we are honored to feature four of Wu Tsai Yen’s artworks, including a painting further developed in style as compared to his 1986 artwork – Swimming upwards, collection of the National Gallery Singapore.
Swimming fishes 1987 (exhibited)

Swimming upwards 1986
Ink and colour on paper
168 x 44 cm
Collection of National Gallery Singapore

Pang Teng Kun – By the sea
Pang Teng Kun – Old Tanjong Pagar Train Station
Ng Yew Hock – Chicks Playing
Foo Chee San – Boat Quay
Phua Cheng Phue – Seated maiden with lilies
Phua Cheng Phue – Balinese maiden
Chen Wen Hsi – Hens

Chen Chong Swee – Village

Zhu Hong – Bird view at Little India

Zhu Hong – Singapore Shophouse

Modern Artists’ Artworks

Mohammad Din Mohammad – Flowers
Choo Keng Kwang – Boats by the seashore

Special invitation for Singaporean art critic Zhao Hong to present:
<Artwork Appreciations & Collections of Local Artists>

art appreciation talk for the shophouse edition: singapore art treasures exhibition

Date/Time: November 23, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Event Fee: $48 per person
Speaker: Zhao Hong
Topic: <<Artwork Appreciations & Collections of Local Artists>>

Join art expert Zhao Hong for an in-depth discussion to explore the classic works and unique styles of Singapore’s first and second-generation artists. Zhao will guide attendees through the historical development of Singaporean art and share professional insights into the art market, offering valuable information for art enthusiasts and collectors.

Registration Link: https://www.eventbrite.sg/e/1073946405609?aff=oddtdtcreator

Event Details

Exhibition details:
Exhibition Title: The Shophouse Edition: Singapore Art Treasures

Exhibition Dates 展览日期:
22 – 24 November 2024
Time 时间: 11am-9pm daily
[Free Admission Daily]

Venue 地点:
11 Lorong 24A Geylang, S398535

Programmes:
Art Talk by Zhao Hong: <<Artwork Appreciations & Collections of Local Artists>>

[赵宏主讲: 新加坡本土艺术的鉴赏与收藏]

Sunday 23 November, 3pm-5pm, by RSVP only, tickets are available on Eventbrite

Guided exhibition walk-through
[11:30am, 1:30pm, 5:30pm daily]

🎨🖌️ SG Shophouse Urban Sketching Workshop:
Be introduced about the history of Singapore shophouse architectural art and culture, their decorative elements & style.
Immerse yourself in guided urban sketching and bring back a memorable shophouse sketch!

Date: 22-24 Nov, 10am-11.30am daily
Course fee: $48nett (including art materials and sketchbook to bring home!)
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.sg/e/singapore-shophouse-edition-urban-sketching-workshop-tickets-1075539330089?aff=oddtdtcreator

The collection of first and second-generation artworks featured shall take our audience on a visual feast to view the best artworks representative of the artists, and learn more about the artists and their favourite art subjects. Through the daily guided exhibition walk-through sessions running at 11:30am, 1:30pm and 5:30pm daily, exhibition visitors may be taken through a short introduction on the history of Singapore art and learn about the art styles of the first and second generation artists featured.

For more information and RSVP, kindly Whatsapp to 90056716 [Iola Liu].

About Figment

Figment is a co-living boutique hospitality company which curates unique co-living experiences. Figment works with a diverse range of local artists, artisans, and architects to infuse spaces with artworks that leads us back to vibrancy and community spirit. As a strong supporter and lover of the local arts community, Figment is providing venue support for the exhibition – The Shophouse Edition – Singapore Art Treasures.

Fang Low (Founder)

Image of Fang Low
Image of Figment Shophouse

The co-founder and CEO of Figment – Fang Low, 35 years old, has always been supportive of local art and has worked with a diverse range of local artists, artisans and architects to infuse co-living spaces with artworks. The collaboration with Asia Art Collective shall transform the Figment event space to an art exhibition gallery, with a creative and curated display of artworks truly Singaporean and iconic.

About Asia Art Collective

Established in 2013, Asia Art Collective is a Singaporean art focused art gallery and consultancy with years of experience in art representation and promotion, art exhibition and event planning. With its physical gallery at the Tanglin Shopping Centre from 2013 to 2015, Asia Art Collective has relocated to 140 Paya Lebar Road, #03-04 AZ@Paya Lebar, Singapore 409015 since 2019 to date. Asia Art Collective continues to promote the appreciation of local artists, with an emphasis on promoting first and second generation artists, representing well-known and highly prominent Singaporean artists, including Chen Wen Hsi, Cheong Soo Pieng, Fan Chang Tien, Lim Tze Peng, Chua Ek Kay, Phua Cheng Phue, Zhu Hong and others.

Image of Iola Liu, taken during exhibition opening of Transcend – 50 years of Singapore Modern Art
“Both Figment and Asia Art Collective are excited about this collaboration, which is the first time that Figment has provided the public open access to its co-living space. This exhibition is hosted at the Figment shophouse at 11 Lorong 24A Geylang and at another shophouse location within a minute’s walk along the same street. This allows the audience to experience a blend of tradition, heritage, art and modernity as they visit the exhibition hosted within the decorated shophouses. The Shophouse Edition shall also continue to highlight and feature various Singaporean artists beginning from the first showcase of “Singapore Art Treasures” with artworks by Singaporean first and second generation artists.” says Iola Liu, 33 years old art director and curator of Asia Art Collective.

Press Contact

Contact Person: Iola Liu | 9239 8226
Email: iola@iolaliu.com | info@asiaartcollective.com
Website: asiaartcollective.com | visualartscentre.sg
Landline: 6255 0711 | 6733 2155

Our Visual Arts Centre Exhibition Gallery Venue Hire Calendar For 2025 Is Open!

Foundation In Digital Art

Embark on a captivating journey into the vibrant world of digital art! Our Foundation in Digital Art workshop invites budding creatives aged nine and above to unleash their imagination and hone their artistic skills in a dynamic, supportive environment. From mastering basic digital tools to crafting mesmerizing digital masterpieces, children will explore a spectrum of techniques guided by seasoned mentors. Through hands-on activities and interactive sessions, participants will discover the endless possibilities of digital expression while fostering creativity and critical thinking. Join us for an exhilarating adventure where young artists transform ideas into stunning visual realities, igniting a passion for digital art

Colour & Texture Exploration With Acrylic Painting & Collage

Prepare to unleash your inner artist in a kaleidoscope of color and creativity with ‘Colour Blast: Acrylic Painting & Collage Techniques’! Dive into a whirlwind adventure where vibrant hues and mesmerizing textures collide in a symphony of imagination. From mastering the art of seamless color blending to discovering the magic of mixed media collage, this journey is a playground for your artistic soul. With each brushstroke, explore new techniques that breathe life into your canvas, transforming it into a vibrant tapestry of expression. Join us and let your creativity run wild as you embark on this colorful escapade!”

World of Manga [Foundation & Styling]

A manga art workshop for children and teenagers sounds like a fantastic idea! Here’s how you might structure it:
Introduction to Manga: Begin by introducing what manga is, its history, and its influence on popular culture worldwide. Show examples of different manga styles and genres to give participants an overview.
Basic Drawing Techniques: Start with the fundamentals of drawing, such as line work, shapes, and proportions. Provide step-by-step instructions on how to draw basic manga characters, focusing on simple shapes that can be built upon.
Character Design: Move on to character design concepts, including creating unique characters, designing their personalities, and developing backstories. Encourage participants to get creative and think outside the box.
Expression and Emotion: Teach how to convey emotions and expressions through facial expressions, body language, and positioning of characters. This can be a fun and interactive exercise where participants practice drawing various emotions.
Storytelling and Paneling: Explore the basics of storytelling in manga, including paneling techniques, pacing, and layout. Show examples of different panel structures and discuss how they affect the flow of the story.
Inking and Coloring: Introduce participants to inking techniques using pens or markers. You can also cover digital inking for those interested. Then, demonstrate basic coloring techniques using markers, colored pencils, or digital software.
Feedback and Collaboration: Provide opportunities for participants to share their work and receive feedback from their peers and instructors. Encourage collaboration by having them work together on short manga projects or collaborative drawings.
Final Showcase: End the workshop with a showcase of participants’ work. This could be in the form of an exhibition, digital gallery, or printed booklet. Celebrate everyone’s creativity and progress throughout the workshop.
Remember to create a supportive and encouraging environment where participants feel free to express themselves and explore their creativity. And don’t forget to have fun! Manga is all about imagination and passion, so let that spirit shine through in your workshop.

Academy Drawing Traditions

The academy drawing and sketching tradition, rooted in centuries of artistic practice, emphasizes disciplined study of form, proportion, and technique. Originating from Renaissance workshops and formalized by institutions like the Royal Academy, it prioritizes meticulous observation and mastery of fundamental skills. Students progress from basic exercises to complex compositions, learning to depict still life and common objects with precision and expression. This tradition values both classical principles and innovation, encouraging artists to push boundaries while maintaining a deep respect for tradition. Through rigorous training and critique, artists within this tradition cultivate a strong foundation for creative exploration and artistic excellence.

Chinese Ink Painting and Calligraphy

This course on Chinese ink painting and calligraphy introduces young learners to the rich traditions of Chinese art. Through hands-on activities, students explore the basics of brush techniques, ink control, and the delicate art of Chinese script. They learn to appreciate the cultural significance of calligraphy and painting, developing skills in creating elegant strokes and expressive brushwork. The course fosters creativity, patience, and fine motor skills, while also providing insights into Chinese history and aesthetics. By the end, children gain confidence in their artistic abilities and a deeper understanding of Chinese cultural heritage.

Funk with Graffiti

Funk With Graffiti Workshop for children is an engaging and creative program aimed at introducing young artists to the vibrant world of graffiti and funk-inspired street style art. Participants learn the basics of graffiti history, techniques, and safety. Guided by professional graffiti artists, children explore the art of designing their unique tags, emphasizing creativity, expression, and individuality. The workshop includes hands-on activities, from sketching concepts to creating final designs with spray paint on provided surfaces. By the end of the session, children gain confidence in their artistic abilities and an appreciation for graffiti and funk as legitimate forms of street art. Each child completes two original artworks, which they proudly take home, showcasing their newfound skills and personal style.

Batik Tales

In the Batik Introduction Handkerchief Painting workshop, participants will learn the traditional art of batik, a wax-resist dyeing technique originating from Indonesia. The workshop begins with a brief history and overview of batik, highlighting its cultural significance and various techniques. Participants will then observe a demonstration of applying wax with tjanting tools and dyeing the fabric. Following the demonstration, each participant will design and create their own batik handkerchief, applying wax to create patterns and then dyeing their fabric. The workshop concludes with a group discussion, allowing participants to share their creations and reflect on their learning experience.