Chen Wen Hsi

Acquired directly from the artist
Private Collection, Singapore

This work is in very good overall condition as viewed. There is some light wear along the edges of the work, but this does not affect the overall image. The paint layers are healthy overall. Examination under ultraviolet light reveals areas of restoration on the surface of the work as well as along the edges and corners. Framed.
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From Cubism to Abstract expressionism, these western art movements had a pivotal influence on the development of Singaporean artist Cheong Soo Pieng’s paintings. Stylistically daring and innovative, he experimented with different painting styles, while creating his very own artistic voice. Uninterested to commit with one particular style, the artist demonstrated his versatility throughout his career by switching from different artistic languages, and thereby reaffirming his position as one of the most important Singaporean painters in the 20^th century.

Favouring Southeast Asian subject matter, Kampung Scene is a portrayal of a traditional kampung.  Directly translated to mean village, kampungs were popular in the olden days, fifty-some years ago that reflected a very different image of modernity than the Singapore of present-day. The painting is reminiscent of cubist aesthetics, stylistically resonating western influences such as Paul Cezanne, though with a slightly darker palette.

By pairing a traditional subject matter with a modernistic depiction style, the contrasting elements unexpectedly complement one another. The present painting can also be seen as an exemplification of Cheong Soo Pieng’s maturity as an artist. Partly nostalgic as well as personal, Kampung Scene is the artist’s rendition of his own history growing up in Singapore.