Fan Chang Tien was born in Guangdong, China. He graduated from the Xinhua Academy of Fine Arts in Shanghai in 1928 and later continued his studies at the Changming Academy of Art. He settled in Singapore in 1956. (ISEAA)

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With the support of his wife, Madam Heng Siew Leng, Fan established The Pure Orchid Studio at Balestier Road. There, he taught Chinese ink painting to young Singaporeans free of charge, passing on traditional Chinese painting techniques and the artistic traditions of the Shanghai School. (Visual Arts Centre)

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Through decades of teaching, Fan influenced many younger artists and played an important role in the development of Chinese ink painting in Singapore.