Frame size: H79.4 x W60.6 x D6.4 cm
Born in Fujian Province, Liu Kang (1911-2004) received his formal training in Shanghai Academy of Fine Art, where he was exposed to Chinese paintings. In 1928, he went to Paris where he was influenced by art movements such as Fauvism and Post-Impressionism. Not only was he one of Singapore’s pioneer artists, he was also a leading figure in the Society of Chinese Artists and the Singapore Art Society. In 1970, he was awarded the Public Service Star for his contributions in the field of art.This work, part of a series of portraits that Liu completed in the 1940s, shows heavy influence from the Paris Academy: the emphasis on form and structure adding to its volume and solidity, and the palette of muted earthy tones. These portraits are among the number of artworks that Liu would regard as studies.
