Chen Cheng Mei

Chen Cheng Mei / Tan Seah Boey
(1927 – 2020)

Details
1927
Born in Singapore as Tan Seah Boey

1954
Graduated from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts with a degree in Western Painting

1960
Co-founded the “Ten Men Art Group” and began extensive travels across Southeast Asia

1969
Studied printmaking techniques in Paris at Studio 17 under Stanley William Hayter

1971
Left her job as a French translator to become a full-time artist

2004
Held her first solo exhibition in Singapore

2020
Passed away in Singapore at the age of 93

The Voyager’s Canvas: Chen Cheng Mei’s Artistic Journey

Chen Cheng Mei (1927 – 2020), also known as Tan Seah Boey, was born in 1927 in Singapore and stands as a pioneering artist. Her artistic exploration began at Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, where she was mentored by avant-garde figures like Chia Yew Hock and Lim Hak Tai. In the late 1950s, Chen embarked on a seminal journey across the Malay Peninsula with three fellow artists, setting the stage for her expansive artistic voyage. By the 1960s, she co-founded the “Ten Men Art Group,” leaving a significant mark through their artistic explorations across Southeast Asia.

In the 1970s, Chen extended her horizons to China and India, and later ventured into Africa and South Asia. Her artistic creations, deeply influenced by these diverse regions, reflect a unique style developed over decades of global exploration. Her works, showcased worldwide, reveal not only her profound understanding of natural landscapes but also her insightful perspective on post-colonial cultural diversity.

A Journey of the Soul: Chen Cheng Mei’s Personal Reflection

“Art, to me, is a journey of the soul and spirit. Each travel, whether through the lush landscapes of Southeast Asia or the vast deserts of Africa, offers a fresh perspective and inspiration. My works are more than mere depictions of these scenes; they are heartfelt expressions of my inner emotions. Through colours and lines, I aim to share these experiences and feelings with the viewer, inviting them to feel the joy and passion I have for the world.

The charm of art lies in its ability to transcend the visual and touch the soul. Through my creations, I express my intimacy with nature and my enthusiasm for life, conveyed through vibrant colours and distinctive forms on the canvas. Each piece is a result of my dialogue with the world, reflecting my desire to explore the unknown.”

Worlds on Canvas: Unveiling the Stories and Emotions Behind the Works

Chen Cheng Mei’s artworks are profound expressions of her perceptive engagement with the world. Each piece is a testament to her unique understanding of nature and culture, skillfully translated into art. Her bold use of colour and form transforms her travel experiences into vivid visual narratives.

Rather than presenting simplistic exoticism, her work offers a nuanced portrayal of cultural complexity and modernity. Each creation is not just a visual delight but a reflection of her exploration and articulation of shared human cultural experiences. Her art captures the essence of diverse cultures with a deep sense of empathy and insight.