Veteran Chinese ink artist encourages imaginative interpretation of his artwork

4 Cheah working on a 30-meter scroll. The Chinese ink artist calls his latest calligraphy work at the National Art Gallery an ‘exercise in fun’.5 ‘Who’s The Winner’ (1997) – Feather flying and action-packed, the cock at right looks like he’s bought it for this round.6 ‘Harmony’ (2005)- Look not at the surface but go deep into the painting. Cheah is like a tourist guide taking the eye into a surreal realm.7 ‘Safe Home’ (2005) – Where space is of no consequence but the feeling of comfort and safety is conveyed just the same.

Cheah Thien Soong is recognised as a master of the Nanyang-style of ink painting.

The style is believed to have emerged sometime in the 1930s when migrating Chinese artists began producing work depicting local elements.