Singaporean artist and NAFA alumnus Tan Teck Heng presented a solo exhibition of 19 paintings and 54 woodcarvings created between 2011 and 2026 marking his return to Singapore after nearly 3 decades abroad. Tan’s unconventional path spanned over 4 decades of artistic practice across Singapore, China and Taiwan, shaped by sustained observation and contemplation drawn from nature, culture and the human experience. This restless exploration was reflected in his choice of medium – tactile sculpture carved from local trees to metaphorical paintings and semi-abstract landscapes of Hainan’s picturesque landforms.

The exhibition opening was officiated on 5 June 2026 by Dr George Quek, Chairman of the BreadTalk Group, with full turnout of support from the artist community, alumni and NAFA faculty.

Among the highlights was River of Time, a painting inspired by the mangrove swamps of his birthplace in Indonesia. Having left his hometown at a very young age, Tan only returned to it as an adult. This reunion with the landscape became a defining catalyst for his work and growth, as he looked inward to understand himself and the world around him with awareness and clarity. Tan realised that artistic practice is enriched not only by technical skill but also by lifelong practice in observation. Like his woodcarving, Philosopher, his commitment to reading and intellectual inquiry became an integral part of his creative process directly fuelling his artistic vision.

Many visitors engaged with the artist personally during the exhibition, captivated by his worldly outlook and personal stories.  The showcase marked a meaningful homecoming for an alumnus who has been a teacher and mentor to artists at NAFA for a brief but impactful period in the early 1990s.