Born in Fujian, China, Shi Xiangtuo (1906-1990) came from an eminent family of seal carvers and calligraphers, Trained by his father, he is best known for his calligraphy and seal work. In addition, Shi was an accomplished ink painter who counted the Shanghai School and, in particular, Wu Changshuo’s paintings as major influences. He emigrated to Singapore in 1938 and contributed immensely in the area of art education: first as a principal at a primary school and later as a lecturer at Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts. In 1979, Shi was awarded the Public Service Star by the Singapore government.Although Shi did not belong to any school of art, the influence of the Shanghai School, such as the combination of free sketch and meticulous styles, can be seen here. Also noteworthy is Shi’s unconventional use of white paint to illustrate the fragile pistils and delicate petals.
