Xu Beihong is recognised as the founder of China ’s art education in the realist tradition and the father of Chinese modern painting. He had an immense influence on the development of Chinese painting in the 20th century. As one of the first Chinese painters to study in the West, Xu became a master of both the art of traditional ink painting and western oil painting. Xu spent several years in Southeast Asia and India between 1939 to1941. Besides painting, he also participated in many social activities. He developed close relations with personalities like R. Tagore, M. Gandhi, Sir Thomas Shenton and Lim Bo Seng, and painted compelling portraits of these individuals.

The exhibition will explore Xu’s journey in Southeast Asia and India, and the interactions that went on between artist and the local communities; how each left an indelible mark on the other, and how these helped propelled Xu Beihong's artistic achievement to greater heights.