Ho Kah Leong (1937 - )
Born in 1937 in Singapore, Ho Kah Leong is a well-known figure in Singapore politics and in the art scene. Ho studied at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts between 1955 and 1966 before pursuing his Bachelor of Science at Nanyang University, graduating in 1963 and becoming a teacher for the next ten years. At the same time, Ho was elected the Member of Parliament for Jurong Constituency in 1966, a position he would hold for the next 8 terms. He later served as a Parliamentary Secretary at various ministries. After retiring from politics in 1997, Ho returned to the academy, this time leading the school from his new position as Principal and in 2003, as the Executive Director of NAFA International. He left in 2005 and has since been a Senior Consultant at a media firm.
Despite the demands of his political career, Ho never stopped painting and constantly involved himself in art, even officiating the opening of numerous art exhibitions during his time in office. He is known for his oil paintings painted en plein air as well as his Chinese calligraphy, both of which feature his distinct bold strokes. His works have been exhibited at several exhibitions, including more than a dozen solo shows, and are often put up for auction to raise funds for charities. In 2001, Ho was conferred an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy in Arts by the Wisconsin International University, United States, in recognition of his contribution to politics and art.
