Yeo Hoe Koon 杨可均

:Artist Biography & Artworks Collection

Yeo Hoe Koon - Singaporean Artist's Biography. Exhibition & Sales of artworks during (Private Art Sales | 31/10-2/11/25 | Helutrans).

Yeo Hoe Koon Artist Biography & Artworks Collection

About Yeo Hoe Koon (b.1935):

Table of Contents
Background and Artistic Journey

Yeo Hoe Koon was born in 1935 in Hainan, China, and later settled in Singapore. He quickly gained recognition as one of Singapore’s pioneering second-generation artists. After graduating from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), he continued his studies at the prestigious École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris. There, he immersed himself in the dynamic world of European modernism.

This cross-cultural journey shaped his unique artistic voice. His works combine Eastern and Western influences with sensitivity and confidence. Over the years, his art has appeared in major exhibitions in Singapore and abroad. Collectors and critics respect him as a master who has helped define Singapore’s modern art landscape.

Artistic Style and Medium

Yeo Hoe Koon
By The River
2015
52.5 x 75 cm

Yeo Hoe Koon is known for lyrical abstraction, expressive brushwork, and the poetic interplay of colour and light. In particular, his expertise in oil, acrylic, and Chinese ink allows him to create emotionally rich and visually rhythmic paintings that break cultural and stylistic barriers.

While his early works reflect classical techniques, his later pieces show bold abstraction. They radiate freedom and spontaneity that mark his maturity as an artist. Moreover, he often explores natural elements such as wind, mist, water, and light, giving his paintings energy and vitality.

Yeo merges the traditions of Chinese ink with the dynamic energy of Western abstraction. Therefore, his art feels both timeless and modern.

Major Exhibitions

Major exhibition < Illumination: Paintings by Yeo Hoe Koon 曙光:杨可均大型油画展 > in NAFA

Yeo has showcased his works in numerous solo and group exhibitions. A major retrospective at NAFA in 2022, titled Illumination, presented over 30 new oil paintings, including a four-metre-long triptych. This event celebrated his lifelong dedication to the arts and highlighted the freshness that defines his current style.

Additionally, his exhibitions stand out for vibrancy, depth, and contemplative qualities. Each canvas opens a window to his inner world and evolving artistic journey.

Collectability and Market Presence​
Yeo Hoe Koon - Singaporean Artist's Biography. Exhibition & Sales of artworks during (Private Art Sales | 31/10-2/11/25 | Helutrans).

Yeo Hoe Koon
Autumn Mood
2019
Oil on Canvas
120 x 150cm

Collectors throughout Asia value Yeo Hoe Koon’s works. His paintings often appear in high-profile auctions. For example, large-scale oil pieces have sold for mid five-figure prices in Singapore dollars at renowned houses such as 33 Auction and Christie’s.

Yeo’s art holds both artistic and cultural importance. Consequently, his works make meaningful additions to private and corporate collections.

Why should we invest in Yeo Hoe Koon's artworks? What is the value of his artworks?

Yeo Hoe Koon: A Timeless Addition to Any Collection

A Founding Voice in Singapore Modern Art

Yeo Hoe Koon plays a central role in Singapore’s modern art history. His work mirrors the nation’s artistic growth, blending classical elements with experimentation. Owning one of his works means owning a piece of this cultural story.

A Harmonious Blend of East and West

With formal training in both Singapore and Paris, Yeo combines the fluidity of Chinese ink with the boldness of Western abstraction. As a result, his works resonate across cultures while remaining rooted in Asian aesthetics.

A Legacy of Artistic Growth

For over 60 years, Yeo’s career has evolved steadily. His range — from meditative brushwork to expansive abstract forms — shows versatility and passion for innovation. Each piece reflects his relentless pursuit of artistic excellence.

Widely Recognised and Highly Sough After

Collectors and institutions appreciate Yeo’s artworks for their beauty, cultural relevance, and historical value. Moreover, his works continue to appear in auctions and exhibitions, strengthening his reputation as a highly collectible modern artist.

Art That Inspires and Endures

Yeo’s paintings carry a quiet strength with calmness, reflection, and vitality. Through his command of brush, colour, and space, he creates artworks that inspire viewers and remain timeless treasures.

Exhibition & Collector’s Note

Yeo Hoe Koon’s artworks stand as profound testaments to both artistic mastery and cultural heritage. Renowned for his expressive brushwork, lyrical abstraction, and meditative compositions, Yeo’s paintings possess a timeless quality that transcends passing trends. As one of the pioneering figures of Singapore’s modern art movement, his works hold enduring value—not only for their aesthetic beauty but also for their pivotal role in shaping the nation’s artistic identity.

From 31 October to 2 November 2025, collectors and art enthusiasts will have an exclusive opportunity to experience Yeo Hoe Koon’s legacy at The Private Art Sale 2:

📍 Location: Artspace @ Helutrans, 39 Keppel Road, #01-05, Singapore
📅 Dates: 31 October – 2 November 2025
🕚 Time: 11:00am – 8:00pm daily

This highly anticipated event will present 90 carefully curated artworks offered at 20%–80% below current market prices, providing collectors with a rare chance to obtain meaningful pieces of Singapore’s art history while engaging deeply with the artist’s legacy.

For years, Asia Arts Collective has been a trusted advisory and consultancy specialising in Singaporean and Asian Modern & Contemporary Art. Their expertise spans artwork purchase and sales guidance, valuation and assessment, collection planning, brokerage, and commissioning services. Beyond their advisory role, Asia Arts Collective actively promotes a culture of art appreciation through rotating exhibitions, art talks, and educational programmes, supporting both seasoned collectors and those embarking on their collecting journey.

Yeo Hoe Koon’s works are more than paintings—they are windows into a pivotal era of Singapore’s cultural evolution. The Private Art Sale 2 is not only an opportunity to acquire exceptional art but also an invitation to connect with the broader narrative of Singapore’s artistic heritage.

For more information or to preview the full catalogue and pricing, visit here

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.