Tang Juey Lee, Kuku Bird, 2012

Ink and gouache on paper
49 x 68 cm (visible), 76 x 95 x 2.5 cm (framed)
Condition: Very good

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Tang Juey Lee (Malaysian, 1953–2018) was a distinguished artist renowned for his unique fusion of traditional Chinese ink techniques and vibrant watercolours on rice paper. Born in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, he studied at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) in Singapore from 1974 to 1976, under the mentorship of esteemed artists Georgette Chen (Chinese, 1906–1993) and See Hiang To (Chinese, 1906–1990).

Tang’s oeuvre predominantly features nature-inspired themes, particularly orchids—the national flower of Singapore—often accompanied by birds. His work seamlessly merges the Eastern flower-and-bird painting tradition with Western realism, resulting in a distinctive visual language. His meticulous brushwork and vibrant colour palette reflect a harmonious balance between these artistic traditions, making his work both evocative and enduring.