Wan Soon Kam, Untitled (House on a Knoll), Undated

Watercolour on paper
70 x 53 cm (visible), 92 x 74 x 2.5 cm (framed)
Condition: Very good

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Wan Soon Kam (Singaporean, b. 1943) is a second-generation Singaporean artist celebrated for his serene depictions of landscapes, kampungs, and quiet urban scenes. Working primarily in watercolour and acrylic, his art captures the tranquil essence of a rapidly evolving Singapore.

Raised in a village on Hainan Island, China, Wan's early experiences deeply influenced his artistic vision. He graduated from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts in 1961 and initially pursued a career as a book designer and illustrator. This period honed his skills in various media, including oil, watercolour, and acrylic. In 1976, he transitioned to full-time painting, encouraged by the support of gallerist Della Butcher, a prominent advocate for Singaporean artists.

Wan's work has been showcased in solo and group exhibitions both locally and internationally. Notably, he held a retrospective exhibition in 2016 at the ARTrium @ MCI in the Old Hill Street Police Station. His paintings are appreciated for their nostalgic portrayal of Singapore's heritage, offering viewers a window into the nation's past.

A large body of work is dedicated to painting rural street scenes and landscapes in Singapore and Malaysia. Through a blend of deep hues and a combination of watercolour and acrylic techniques, he conveys the textures of the humid and verdant tropical archipelago.

(Photographed in February 2025)