LOT 57
Kwan Chin
B. Kuala Lumpur, 1946
Fruit Seller Series, 2003
Signed and dated “Kwan Chin 03” on lower right
Batik
85 x 146 cm
Provenance Private Collection, Kuala Lumpur
RM 9,000 – RM 13,000
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 colours sets a cheerful, sunny mood for the viewer, at the same time showcasing 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.