墨澜社 molan art association
A brief history of The Molan Art Association
墨 (Mo) Chinese black or black ink, is a medium of expression used for Chinese calligraphy and painting. It is the character which gave the Molan Art Association its name, and together with the character 澜 (lan), refers to the momentum generated by the might of the Chinese brush.
The Molan Art Association was formed in 1967 by a group of Chinese artists who excelled in Chinese painting, calligraphy and seal engraving. Most of them were graduates from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), drawn together by a common bond and goal, they aspired to preserve the Chinese heritage through the promotion of Chinese art.
The advocator of the association was the late Shi Xiangtuo 施香沱. His contributions were significant to the establishment of the association. Shi was a part-time lecturer at NAFA. He visualised having a society whereby people with similar interest in Chinese art could meet for discussions. When the association was formed, meetings were held regularly and attended by NAFA students.
In forming Molan Art Association, the following objectives were laid out
1. To promote fellowship among members.
2. To promote interest and the study of Chinese painting, calligraphy and seal engraving.
3. To achieve a deeper understanding of the Chinese culture among the various ethnic communities.
In carrying out these objectives, members continued to meet on a regular basis at the Activity Centre, 133-C South Bridge Rd. Topics discussed at these meetings cover a wide scope, and members are encouraged to express themselves freely.
Besides these frequent gatherings, the association organises exhibitions, demonstrations and talks by both local and foreign artists. Among the important guests from China and Hongkong were Du Yingqiang, Chen Zhenming, Zhao Shaoang, Zhu Renming, Zhou Sixing, Lu Xiangru and Yei Shangchin.
Another important role which the association plays in furthering the experience and exposure of its members is in recommending potential artists for scholarships. Chen Shyh Jin, Kong Yin Ling. Ang Cheng Chye and Pang Boey Moi received grants from the Lee Foundation. This enabled them to study Chinese painting in China's art academies. These members are presently teaching in local schools.
The Molan Art Association also participates in fund-raising activities. Notable events were the fund raising campaign jointly organised with the then Singapore Arts Council in 1968, and the charity exhibition with the Lion Club Mandarin in 1988.
In 1992, the Association staged a Jubilee Art Exhibition in May to celebrate its 25th anniversary. Members' works were exhibited at The Empress Place and the exhibition was officiated by Professor Tommy Koh, Ambassador-At-Large and Chairman of the National Arts Council. A Jubilee Souvenir Magazine was published to commemorate the occasion and to express the Association's gratitude for the invaluable support shown by both public and private organisations.
The Jubilee Art Exhibition travelled to Shantuo, China in June in the following year. It was officially launched by the Party Political Secretary and the Mayor of the City. About 80 pieces of artworks by some 45 participants were displayed at the Shantuo Painting Studio's exhibition hall. Accompanying the exhibition was a seven-member delegation which participated in a formal discourse with local artists.
The Molan Art Association has come a long way since its founding in 1967. Although members previously voiced their concern over the general lack of interest in Chinese art in Singapore, they persevered in promoting the art. Today, the association is among the influential institutions in Singapore and has staged many exhibitions of its members works and those of foreign painters with international repute.