Khaw Sia Khuan

1913 – 1984

Khaw Sia Khuan was a pioneering Malaysian painter born in China. He studied at the Sin Hua (New China) Art Academy in Shanghai from 1927 to 1932, where he met renowned artists including Xu Beihong, who praised his talent and influence. In 1933, he briefly studied under Sir Russell Flint in England, further refining his mastery of watercolor. Combining Chinese brush techniques with Western naturalism, Khaw produced expressive watercolour and oil paintings noted for their luminous washes and delicate balance of form and spontaneity.

After moving to Penang, Malaysia, in 1937, Khaw held his first solo exhibition there in 1955, featuring portraits of Balinese women and landscapes. His works earned international recognition, winning awards at Le Salon in Paris (1956), the Summer Salon at the Royal Institute Galleries, London (1957), and the National Society’s 25th Exhibition in England (1958). Khaw continued painting until his passing in 1984 at the age of 71.