Jeffrey Wandly (b. 1964, Singapore) captures the essence of heritage landmarks and historical places in his intuitive and fluid paintings, earning him the nickname, "Building Whisperer." He has exhibited his works in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Korea and Vietnam, and his paintings can be found in the collections of government ministries, organisations, and private individuals. With an academic background in architecture and project management, Jeffrey’s deep appreciation for architectural detail and historical significance shines through his artworks.
Jeffrey holds a Bachelor of Architecture (Honours) from National University of Singapore (NUS) and a Master of Project Management from Queensland University of Technology (QUT). Jeffrey is a project management professional and associate member of the Singapore Institute of Architects. He is the co-founder of Maya Gallery with his wife, Masturah, has mentored young artists, and been invited to give art talks at various events. He is a recipient of the Anugerah MENDAKI (MENDAKI Excellence Award), for being the top Malay student at tertiary level, and the Architecture Angullia Scholarship. He also won the Merit Award at the Singapore Tourism Board’s Saces Sculptor Competition in 1980; Third prize (Seniors) at the Takashimaya National Student Painting Competition in 1992; and Best of Show Award at SeniKita by Kamal Arts Gallery in Wisma Geylang Serai in 2020.
I love everything about a building, from conception to construction, each nut and bolt; how every part is made, I have touched every single piece of material and smelt the dirt at construction sites. When I work it’s a spontaneity where I let gravity and a natural order flow. In my Imperfection Series, I capture the hands of Malay artist and master potter Iskandar Jalil at work in his studio. It is inspired by Pak Iskandar's values of discipline, endurance and taking "no short cuts" in the pursuit of artistic excellence. The series is a tribute to the respected educator's philosophy of allowing imperfections as part of one's artistic journey. In Time and Space, I continue my interest in portraying iconic heritage landmarks, in appreciation of our (lost) visual heritage.
Huu Nghi: Singapore & Vietnam 50-10 Exhibition
“My artwork depicts the Huong River, flowing through the city of Hue. Also known as "Perfume River," flower petals would fall in autumn and give its waters a subtle fragrance. More than a waterway, spanning 80 km, it's a symbol of Hue Imperial City and aligns with the principles of Fengshui in the Nguyen Dynasty, signifying wealth and prosperity. In the form of a map, the painting guides you through Hue's landscape, showing Ngo Mon Gate's significance as an entry into the citadel. It also reminds us of the history of our Singapore River, thus allowing us to share stories of Vietnam and Singapore's heritage and friendship. Art can foster cultural understanding, and encourage us to reflect on our past and the promise of tomorrow.”
