Name: Patricia Ong Hwee Boon
Thesis Title: Historicisation of Cynical Realism (1990s–2010s)
Thesis Abstract
This thesis adopts a retrospective stance to examine the impact and implications of the art eco-system and its agencies (including the state, museums, auction houses and collectors) in shaping and influencing Cynical Realism during the 1990s to 2010s—a stylistic genre that is widely regarded as a milestone. The study assesses the profound impact these agencies had that led to the rapid rise of Cynical Realism and its legendary ‘burst’ onto the international art scene that would become a key driving force in the art market through the 1990s and 2010s. In addition, it posits and frames the achievements of the Cynical Realist artists as an irony or paradox, as certain successes are paradoxically also attributed to compromising the ‘edge’, force or power of some of the ideals of Cynical Realism. In this sense, the trajectory of Cynical Realism is arguably akin to successful brand entities of creative industries that burst into a meteoric rise and are then deemed visibly ‘commercialised’ over time, with some even tapering off from their elevated positioning in the international art world. Nevertheless, Cynical Realism is postulated as greatly successful in introducing a new form of artistic practice in China; and thus, occupying a significant role in the historicisation of contemporary Chinese art discourse in the 1990s to 2010s.

Name: Kelly Foo
Thesis Title: Light, Shadow and Memory: The Evolution of Architectural watercolour Techniques in Ong Kim Seng’s Ouevre
Thesis Abstract
This thesis investigates Ong Kim Seng’s architectural watercolours, focusing on his innovative use of light and shadow, force-end brushstrokes, and mastery of the watercolour medium. The study delves into how Ong’s ‘Conceptual’ California Style—characterised by vibrant colours, free composition, and scale manipulation based on personal memories—transforms architectural representation, making it a medium of joy and engagement. The findings highlight Ong’s integration of artistic innovation with cultural storytelling, cementing his pivotal role in evolving watercolour techniques and contributing to the discourse on modern watercolour painting in Singapore and globally.

Name: John Hsieh
Thesis Title: The Art of the Modern: Abstraction in the Lacquer Paintings of South Vietnam
Thesis Abstract
This thesis investigates the use of abstract lacquer painting as a medium for researching modern painting in Southern Vietnam with focus on Ho Huu Thu and Nguyen Lam’s abstract lacquer paintings. Although their philosophical perspectives differ, both devote their lives to the arts. Their art journal clearly demonstrates that it is an important aspect of life. They both shared a passion for lacquer painting as their life goal. In the process, they inspire viewers with their work and encourage aspiring artists to create modernist lacquer paintings. The study also reveals that the South has been and will continue to be a major arts hub in the country.

Name: Sheryl Lynne Tan
Thesis Title: To Picture a Nation: The Representation of Malaysian Identity in Selected Photomedia Work of Yee I-Lann
Thesis Abstract
This thesis investigates themes of Malaysian identity and the imagined Malaysian community through selected works from Yee I-Lann’s photomedia practice, Through Rose Coloured Glasses (2002), the Malaysiana series (2002), and the Rasa Sayang series (2012-2021). Malaysia is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious plural society that continues to grapple with issues of identity. Sabahan artist Yee explores ideas of identity and the imagined community through the use of found studio photographs and crowdsourced photographs in her work that pictures the imagined Malaysian community. This thesis situates Yee’s works in the sociopolitical contexts in which they were created, discusses the strategies that Yee uses in her work as well as examines the impact that curatorial intent and the exhibitionary context have on the reading of Malaysian identity and the imagined Malaysian community in the selected works from Yee’s practice.

Name: Lau How Sin
Thesis Title: The Influence of Art Patronage and Art Market on the Artistic Styles and Development of Cheong Soo Pieng and Chen Wen Hsi in Singapore between the 1950s and 1970s
Thesis Abstract
This thesis investigates the influence of art patrons and art markets on the development of artistic styles of two pioneer artists, Cheong Soo Pieng and Chen Wen His, as they grew their art careers in Singapore from the 1950s to the 1970s. Through a combination of primary and secondary research methods, this study draws upon a rich tapestry of archival materials, art exhibition catalogues, newspaper articles, and others, to uncover the intricate influence of patrons and art markets on the evolution of these artists’ artistic styles. This study underscores the strong impact of art patronage and art markets on the artistic development of Cheong Soo Pieng and Chen Wen Hsi. Their artistic journeys exemplify the symbiotic relationship between artists, patrons, and the art market, demonstrating how these interactions can shape art styles and influence the trajectory of an artist’s career.