Born in Chenghai Province, Guangdong, China Chen Chong Swee (191 0-1 985), also known as Chen Khai, was a pioneer generation artist who espoused the Nanyang style of painting that emerged in the Straits. Trained as a Chinese ink painter at Xinhua Art Academy Shanghai, he came to Singapore in 1932. Here he settled down and taught art at various schools - the defunct Tuan Mong High School, Chinese High School and Chung Cheng High School. He also taught at NAFA. In his 24 year tenure at NAFA, he was not only diligent in his own practice but embraced the role as art educator with a passion to nurture young artists and shape the consciousness of the visual arts in what was then Malaya. When he died in 1985, he left an artistic legacy of the finest traditions in painting - one that reflects the spirit of life itself.  

NAFA is honoured to organise the exhibition together with the family of late Mr Chen Chong Swee, to mark the centenary of his birth. The exhibition will present over 60 chinese ink, watercolour and oil paintings by the prolific artist, some of which have never been seen in public before.