LOT 39
ONG KIM SENG
B. Singapore, 1945
Singapore River – St Theresa Church, 1982
Signed and dated “K.seng, 82” on the lower left
Watercolour on paper
27.5 x 37.5 cm
Private Collection, Singapore
RM 7,000 – 15,000
Ong Kim Seng’s style is described as being “naturalist cum impressionistic” and “a combination of post-impressionist colour and the outlook of the American realist masters”. He paints en plein air and has stated that in order for him to paint a place; he has to feel it first. “I believe that inspiration comes naturally when there’s a link between the artist and his subject.” He focuses on inanimate objects, architectural form, masonry, foliage and landscape and as seen in this piece he captures the scenery in Singapore brilliantly, and the results are better than real. From the complexity and the minute details of the boats to the realistic play of light and shadow, his exemplary use of watercolour and the balance between subject and space truly make his work a gem. Ong Kim Seng was born in Singapore and has been a full- time artist since 1985.