Born in Singapore in 1922, Ho Kok Hoe is an eminent architect in Singapore. While studying architecture in Australia from 1948 to 1952, he participated actively in many exhibitions there. Upon his return home in 1952, Ho became involved in the local art scene and was instrumental in putting Singapore art on the world stage when he brought the works of the pioneer artists and others to London in 1955. He served as president of the Singapore Art Society from 1954 to 1967, and again from 1981 to 1983. In 1983, Ho received the Public Service Medal from the President of Singapore for his contributions. A self-taught artist, Ho is proficient in many different mediums, such as oil, Chinese ink and etching. This work, which depicts three young men in military uniform engaged in a conversation, possibly during a break in training, is executed in mixed media. ‘Conversation’ is one of Ho’s best-known works.
