The History of Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (1938 - 1990)

Abstract

This thesis proposes to study the historical development of the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts in Singapore as a way of understanding the Academya??s institutional growth from between the periods of the 1930s and the 1980s. The thesis presents an analysis of the Academya??s mission, organizational structure and enrolment, activities and pedagogy during three periods: the 1930s, the 1950s and 60s, and the 1970s and 80s. Through the charting of its history, it is hoped that this thesis will produce a more detailed and coherent picture of the Academya??s establishment and development, and its relation to the art scene as Singaporea??s oldest art training facility. An alternative view of Singaporea??s history of art development will also be gained in the process, with the provision of new insights into key events and figures of Singaporea??s art scene, and the expansion of the field of art education.