Exhibition Synopsis

Leader, teacher, mentor and experimenter, Yeh Chi Wei was a mover and shaker of Singapore’s early art scene. Members of the artistic community would know how this quiet artist worked laboriously and played significant roles in shaping visual art during the 1960s and 70s. Yeh created some of the most distinctive oil paintings, and defined a unique Southeast Asian style.

At the opening of the First Ten Men Art Exhibition in 1961. From left: Lai Foong Moi, Yeo Tiong Wah, Lee Sik Khoon, Yeh Chi Wei, Cheah Phee Chye, Lim Tze Peng, Seah Kim Joo, Choo Keng Kwang, Chen Cheng Mei and Tan Miow Kheng. Photographs kindly provided by Chen Cheng Mei.

Drawing inspiration from many cultural sources, ranging from ancient Chinese rubbings, carvings to Javanese batik, Yeh’s works powerfully interweaves these cultural elements with both Asian and Western art techniques. As an art teacher and leader of the Ten Men Art Group, he guided and mentored many Singapore artists. He was also a tremendous source of inspiration and encouragement to many others.

The Story of Yeh Chi Wei celebrates the life of such an artist. We warmly invite you to examine the works and inspirations behind this unsung hero.