Posthumous Post
Let me share yet another of my bamboo paintings with you. This time, it is a large scrolled painting featuring several bamboo plants under a bright full moon at night. In the upper right corner of the painting is my calligraphy in Running Script of a well-known poem by Qing Dynasty government official, scholar, artist and poet ‘Yun Shouping’. This poem, which I’ve translated for you, beautifully encapsulates the attributes of an excellent Chinese ink brush painting, adding a deeper layer of meaning to the artwork.
“One should have an open mind free of mundane matters of daily living and the world before entering the best state of mind. During the painting process, there is no need to strive for the subject’s meticulous and perfect resemblance (or likeness) but rather aim to portray its true spirit or soul. Let heaven decide the style and positions of the dots and other brush strokes on the artwork. This is the secret of a good painting that represents nature well.
Tan It Koon
Before retirement, Dr Tan It Koon was, among many appointments, Head of Clinical Biochemistry at SGH’s Dept of Pathology. He was the Deputy Chairman of the National Theatre Trust and Chairman for Grants and Scholarships of the Spore Cultural Foundation. He received the National Day Awards, PBM, and PPA, for his contribution to cultural and community development and excellence in Public Administration.
