Tong Chin Sye, Kolkata Market, 2000

Watercolour on paper
29 x 41 cm (visible), 44 x 54 x 3 cm (framed)
Condition: Very good

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Tong Chin Sye (Singaporean, b. 1939) is a second-generation artist recognised for his mastery across watercolour, oil, acrylic, Chinese ink, and mixed media. A graduate of the Singapore Academy of Fine Arts in 1960, he later taught Western Art part-time at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts. His works reflect a synthesis of Eastern and Western techniques, often depicting landscapes, cityscapes, and street life in Singapore and abroad. Over his career, he has received multiple awards, including first prize at the Port of Singapore Authority Open Art Competition in 1987 and the Tan Tsze Chor Art Award in 1992.

Sometime in the late 1990s, there was a piece by Tong on display at Bt Panjang Plaza going for about $400. It was too exorbitant an amount for me then. Almost 20 years later, I didn’t think twice when this piece became available.

Acquired during Singapore Watercolour Society 2017 Annual Show.

(Photographed in September 2025)