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.The island of Bali with its rich and exotic culture was a source of inspiration for Liu and his fellow artists. It provided them with new subject matter and was crucial to the development of the Nanyang style. This undated pastel work is probably drawn on one of Liu’s trips there.
