What makes some of these local or global creatives tick? In this weekly column, pioneer generation artist and Cultural Medallion recipient Goh Beng Kwan (the artist is exhibiting both his traditional and digital works soon with tickets available for purchase here) shares his favourite things.
1. Scarves: I used to be a boy scout growing up, so I would wear neckerchiefs as part of the uniform. I still keep patterned scarves as part of my everyday wardrobe because they add a pop of colour and can be styled in many different ways, either folded or tied around the neck, head, or arm.
2. Turquoise: Turquoise is my favourite colour because the blue-green shade is like patina, which represents the natural passage of time. When I saw bronzes and sculptures in the museums of New York back in the 1960s, I was fascinated by the layer of corrosion formed on them and I incorporated that colour in a number of my works till today.
Pictured above: Goh Beng Kwan, V-stroke, 1964, oil on canvas, 90 x 85cm, Collection of the artist
3. Madame Butterfly by Giacomo Puccini: The opera by Puccini has a special place in my heart because I watched it since I was a young student at the Chinese High School in the 1950s. It follows the tragic story of Cio Cio San, a Japanese girl who falls in love with Pinkerton, an American naval officer.
I found Puccini’s music so poignant and captivating that I bought the score on vinyl.
4. The Sound of Music : When I was in New York from 1962 to 1966, I would often go to the cinemas after my art classes to catch this film that was released in 1965. This movie gives me fond memories of my time there whenever I re-watch it now.
5. Buddhist amulets: On one of my trips to Thailand, I was given Buddhist amulets of Luang Pu Thuat by monks and I always wear these for protection. I added beads and woven string to make the amulets into necklaces when I went to an art exhibition.
6. Caps: I have a collection of caps in leather and canvas to go with my outfits. I also hand-painted some caps as gifts for my family.
7. Fishing Vests: I often wear vests because they are lightweight and functional with multiple pockets, which saves the need for a bag. They are a wardrobe staple that I pair with my scarves and the outerwear is always suitable for Singapore’s unpredictable weather.
8. Harmonicas: When I was in my 20s, I wanted to learn how to play the harmonica so I bought the musical instrument and taught myself. I keep several harmonicas now and occasionally I would play them at home or entertain my friends at gatherings.
9 UOB Painting of the Year award trophy: Winning the inaugural UOB Painting of the Year award in 1982 changed my career and life. The tremendous recognition that the competition gave me led to many opportunities to participate in regional and international projects and exhibitions.
The award encouraged me to become a full-time artist and I continue to be inspired by it today.
Once you’re done with Goh Beng Kwan’s obsessions, click here to catch up with our May 2022 issue!
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