LOT 23
Kwan Chin
B. Kuala Lumpur, 1946
Siblings II, 2011
Signed “Kwan Chin” on lower left
Batik
29 x 29 cm
Rubber Tapping IV- Blue Series, 2011
Signed “Kwan Chin” on lower left
Batik
29 x 29 cm
Provenance Private Collection, Kuala Lumpur
Illustrated on page 10 of “Malaysian Villagescape by Kwan Chin” exhibition catalogue
Published in 2013 by KL Lifestyle Art Space
RM 2,200 – RM 3,000
Kwan Chin has a penchant for the Malaysian country life, setting and people. In the first piece, he captures a lovely moment between siblings – all groomed in his trademark unmitigated yet enthralling expressions. The second captures a group of villagers resting after a hard day’s chores and errands. The lines and details of the batik are very clear and evident here, proving to the audience how much of an expert Kwan Chin is with his detailing when it comes to batik. The lovely display of familiar love is heart-warming, at the same time showcasing Kwan Chin’s expertise in the complexity of batik-making.
Born in Kepong, Kuala Lumpur in 1946, Kwan Chin attended the Nanyang Academy of Fine Art in Singapore during which he learned how to use traditional art materials. Shortly thereafter, he delved into the world of advertising but once he was introduced to batik, it instantly changed his career path. His batik pieces are rich in colour and his work is known around the world, having been exhibited in London and Miami.