Born in Fujian Province, Liu Kang (1911-2004) received his formal training in Shanghai Academy of Fine Art, where he was exposed to Chinese paintings. In 1928, he went to Paris where he was influenced by art movements such as Fauvism and Post-Impressionism. Not only was he one of Singapore’s pioneer artists, he was also a leading figure in the Society of Chinese Artists and the Singapore Art Society. In 1970, he was awarded the Public Service Star for his contributions in the field of art.Throughout his artistic career, Liu drew portraits as he felt life drawing is the most challenging art practice. In the SAM collection is a strong representation of this genre, and it reveals Liu’s enduring interest in the people and cultures of this region.
