Tan Kok Leong

Tan Kok sustained a serious injury to his cervical vertebrae following a somersault accident, which resulted in complete paralysis of all four limbs and left him reliant on a wheelchair. Demonstrating extraordinary determination, he taught himself to paint with his mouth in 1988. Just a year after his first attempts, he was awarded a scholarship from the Association, allowing him to dedicate himself more fully to his artistic development.

Tan Kok’s work reflects two dominant stylistic influences. The style of his painting is rooted in the classical Far Eastern tradition, evident in his depictions of mythological and fantastical scenes featuring monsters, spirits, and the eternal struggle between good and evil, as well as in his watercolour studies of flowers and animals. Hs art also reveals the influence of European and American styles, particularly through his love of portraiture and his preference for working in oils.

In addition to mastering oil painting, Tan Kok has studied the techniques of traditional Chinese painting, developing a deep appreciation for Chinese art and skillfully incorporating its techniques into his own work.

Tan Kok has exhibited widely, participating in numerous group exhibitions in Singapore and presenting his work in solo shows. His artistic achievements have been recognised with various awards and honours, contributing to his considerable reputation in his home country.