Offerings

Liu Kang, Offerings, 1957, oil on canvas, 131 x 98 cm, collection of National Heritage Board

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.

In 1952, Liu, together with Chen Wen Hsi, Chen Chong Swee and Cheong Soo Pieng, made a month-long painting expedition to Bali. The exotic Balinese culture and landscape inspired the pioneer artists and provided new subject matter for their art.This trip was a milestone in the development of the Nanyang style which is epitomized by ‘Offerings’.