Georgette Chen (23 October 1906 – 15 March 1993) was an accomplished and influential Singaporean artist renowned for her contributions to the world of art. Her life was dedicated to art, and her legacy continues to shape the art scene in Singapore and beyond.
Life & Career
Georgette Chen, born Chang Li Ying in 23 October 1906 in Zhejiang, China, lived an extraordinary life marked by a passion for art from an early age. Her family moved to Singapore, and this multicultural environment had a profound influence on her artistic journey. She received her education in art in Shanghai and Paris, where she developed her skills and distinctive style.
Chen’s artistic career was marked by her remarkable contributions to the Nanyang art style, a distinctive Southeast Asian art movement. She was celebrated for her mastery of oil painting, capturing the vibrant colors and beauty of Singapore’s landscapes and people. Her work in both portraiture and still life gained acclaim and recognition, solidifying her status as one of Singapore’s pioneer artists. In 1953, Chen settled in Singapore, where she helped found the Nanyang style of painting–an experimental style that combined Asian subjects and themes with Western styles and techniques. Chen was among the generation of Chinese-born artists who emigrated to Singapore to join the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, where she taught for 26 years. She became renowned for her refined brushwork, which infused her paintings with a dreamlike quality.
Georgette Chen’s art was not limited to Singapore; she also exhibited internationally, sharing her work with a global audience. Her influence extended beyond her paintings, as she was an educator who taught art and played a significant role in nurturing the talents of younger generations.
Chen’s contributions to the Singaporean art scene earned her numerous accolades and awards. Her impact on the development of art in Singapore cannot be overstated.
Georgette Chen passed away on March 15, 1993, but her legacy continues to live on in the art world. Her works remain treasured and continue to inspire artists and art enthusiasts. Her contributions to the Nanyang art style and the broader art community in Singapore and Southeast Asia are remembered with admiration and gratitude.
Notable Works
Georgette Chen’s body of work includes numerous paintings that are celebrated for their artistic and cultural significance. Some of her notable works include:
- “My Sister,” a touching portrait capturing her sister’s grace and charm.
- “The Birthday Party,” a vibrant depiction of a joyous celebration.
- “Still Life with Daffodils,” showcasing her talent in capturing the beauty of everyday objects.
These works, among many others, showcase Georgette Chen’s artistic prowess and her enduring legacy in the art world.
On 1 November 2021, a Google Doodle was created to celebrate Georgette Chen’s 128th Birthday.