Poh Siew Wah Sold at Auction Prices

b. 1948 -

Poh Siew Wah, a versatile painter, was born in Singapore on April 30, 1948. His father was a commercial artist who encouraged him to draw and paint from an early age. He received his formal education at Gan Eng Seng Secondary School where he was taught by Mr. Namasivayam S. (known for his life drawings and figure studies) and Mr. Yeong Ah Soo (holder of a masterês degree in graphic design). Seeing an innate talent, these teachers encouraged him to experiment with different mediums, ranging from charcoal and crayons to watercolours and oils. In 1967, Poh entered the Teachers' Training College, majoring in art education where he was exposed to new techniques and ideas. He graduated in 1970 and taught art ever since before retiring. In Poh's eyes, abstraction is the best means of conveying his emotions, paired with the unrestricted use of material and the spontaneous gesture seems much more direct than any kind of realistic art. In particular, his use of collage technique, revealed his interest in the links between material and experience. Poh's early works were realistic watercolours and oils of Singapore scenes. His works embody an endearing quality to them, reflecting the quietude of nature and its beauty in his works.