LOT 45
SEAH KIM JOO
B. Singapore, 1939
Kenyan Musicians, 1970s
Batik
49 x 76 cm
Signed on lower right
PROVENANCE
Private Collection, Canada
RM 2,500 – 5,000
Seah Kim Joo, born in Singapore in 1939, is an established second generation artist. He was raised in Terengganu, where he was exposed to the process of traditional batik making, which became his signature medium used to portray scenes of Singapore. Seah attended the NanyangAcademy of Fine Arts in 1959 and later became the vice chairman of its Alumni Association. Characteristic of the second generation of Singaporeartists, Seah pushes the creative boundaries of the established Nanyang style through the use of non conventional mediums, such as batik.Kenyan Musicians captures a lively ensemble of musicians rendered in Seah Kim Joo’s characteristic stylised forms and richly patterned costumes. The warm ochre and amber palette, punctuated by intricate batik motifs, gives the work a striking rhythmic energy, while the elongated instruments and expressive figures create a strong sense of movement and musicality.