On 11 March 2026, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) marked a meaningful milestone with the opening of Wong Soo Yen: Ink, Resonance and Grace, a commemorative exhibition celebrating the life and artistic legacy of Mdm Wong Soo Yen.
Held on what would have been her 88th birthday, the exhibition is a heartfelt tribute to an artist whose life was devoted to the discipline, sensitivity, and poetry of ink. Through her works, Mdm Wong expressed a quiet strength and depth that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Mdm Wong began her artistic journey at NAFA in the early 1980s, where she attended part-time courses to deepen her practice. She went on to play an active role in Singapore’s art scene, studying under esteemed artists such as Wu Tsai Yen and Wu Molin. In 1988, she was recognised as one of the three most promising artists by the Outram Park Art Society, which was a testament to her dedication and artistic voice. The commemorative exhibition honours her contributions to the arts and reflects the enduring impact of her journey as a lifelong learner and practitioner.
In conjunction with the exhibition, NAFA is honoured to announce the establishment of the Mdm Wong Soo Yen Endowment Fund. The established fund will go towards nurturing and supporting future generations of young artists through the Wong Soo Yen Bursary, ensuring that financial challenges do not stand in the way of creative pursuit and artistic excellence. The first bursary will be awarded to a deserving student in Academic Year 2026/2027.
The bursary will provide vital support to students in need, empowering them to develop their practice and carry forward the spirit of dedication and artistry that defined Mdm Wong’s life.
NAFA extends its heartfelt gratitude to the family for their generous contribution and for choosing to commemorate Mdm Wong Soo Yen’s legacy in a way that will continue to inspire and uplift aspiring artists for years to come.