The late Singaporean artist Lim Mu Hue was renowned for his skilful and intricate woodcut prints. Trained in Western painting at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts from 1952 to 1955, Lim was mentored by the founding principal of the Academy, Lim Hak Tai and pioneer artists like Cheong Soo Pieng, Chen Wen Hsi and Chen Chong Swee. He was pivotal in developing woodcuts in Singapore’s art history during the 1950s and 1960s. Yet in Lim’s lifetime, he created a repertoire that includes artworks in charcoal, coloured pencil, pastel, oil, watercolour and Chinese ink.
Academic realism, such as still life and figure drawing, was part of the curriculum for Western painting during the early years of NAFA. Lim rendered Seated lady during his art training. The accurate proportion of the figure and tonal values executed demonstrates Lim's excellent draughtsmanship and attention to detail. A sketch of the lady's facial features on the right side of the paper can be observed. Lim's proficient drawing skills are reflected in his woodblock prints as well.
