An investigation of Chen Chong Swee’s practical colour application on selected paintings

• Main Author: Goh, Huiying
• Other Authors: Ng Woon Lam
• Format: Thesis-Master by Research
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2020
• Subjects: Visual arts and music::Arts in general
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/143380
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

This research investigates the practical colour application used in the selected paintings of Singapore pioneer artist Chen Chong Swee. There is a lack of extensive research on Nanyang paintings as much of the current existing literature focuses on the definition of Nanyang style, neglecting the formal articulation of the artwork itself. The artist-researcher/author makes use of histogram charts and 3D Munsell colour space generators to analyse how colours were used in the selected paintings. Formal and content analysis of Chen Chong Swee's paintings, writings and biography are conducted to provide social and cultural contexts behind the creation of these paintings. Part of the practical component consists of re-enacted painting processes, colour palettes and experimental studies to explore the strengths and limitations of each medium. Over the years, Chen mastered colour mixing and understood the three qualities of colours: hue, chroma and value. This mastery of colours equipped him with the capability to create communicable imageries that reflect the realities of the Southsea.