In this unit students learned about a variety of aspects of the local Peranakan culture through the creation of art. Students researched symbolism and motifs used in the decorative arts of Peranakan culture and responded to the traditional motifs using a range of media. 

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Researching Peranakan Culture

Exploring the meaning behind decorative motifs used in Peranakan decorative arts.

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Peranakan Motif Watercolour Paintings 

Here are examples of detailed watercolour paintings inspired by elements of decorative motifs traditionally found on Peranakan tiles, nonyaware, sarong kebaya and beaded slippers. Students focused on developing their colour mixing skills, colour blending and brush control to create the intricate watercolour paintings. 

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Peranakan Sgrafitto Drawing 

Students were given the challenge of experimenting with a range of mark-making techniques to demonstrate texture and form. Students produced intricate drawings using wax crayon and oil pastel inspired by motifs found on Peranakan kebaya and nonyaware. 

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Collaborative Art Challenge

Students worked in collaboration to create a large-scale artwork based on a traditional Peranakan kamcheng. Students were challenged to design individual sections of the whole piece using only a monochrome colour scheme whilst ensuring that the image was cohesive as a whole. An emphasis was placed on team work, problem solving and creative use of media and techniques.

Final collaborative artwork

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Student-Led Peranakan Tile Printmaking Workshop

Inspired by a one day workshop with the Peranakan printmaker, Jennifer Lim, students shared their skills and expertise with their peers by preparing for and leading a printmaking workshop. Inspired by the motifs found on traditional Peranakan ceramic tiles, students designed and created repeated print designs. 

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