An influential figure in shaping art in Singapore, Koeh Sia Yong was born in 1938 and studied Western Painting at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, graduating in 1958. During his time at NAFA, he joined the now defunct Equator Art Society, a group founded by artist Lim Yew Kuan that promoted social realism, drawing attention to the working class through their art. Koeh was a key member of the society and played an active role in furthering their collective ambition up till the society was dissolved in 1972. Koeh then went on to be an art editor for the art magazine under Sin Chew Jit Poh, and later in the 1980s, a graphic designer and political cartoonist for the Nanyang Business Newspaper. After over two decades in the advertising industry, Koeh decided to dedicate his time to art. , The artist is most known for his impressive oil paintings and cartoon drawings. While his paintings often depict the people and scenes of Southeast Asia, a documentation of the social history, his cartoons offer witty and satirical commentary of the world. Koeh has participated in numerous group exhibitions and held more than a dozen solo exhibitions. His works are highly sought after and collectors include The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, National Museum of Singapore and Fukuoka Art Museum Japan as well as private individuals. Today, Koeh continues to pursue his passion, sharing his insights with audiences through his unique style of art.Credit: Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts & The University of the Arts Singapore