Jeffrey Wandly is a project management professional in the building and construction industry, artist, and co-founder of Maya Gallery. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture (Honours) from National University of Singapore (NUS) and a Master of Project Management from Queensland University of Technology (QUT), and is an associate member of the Singapore Institute of Architects. He received the Anugerah MENDAKI Cemerlang (MENDAKI Excellence Award)—for being the top Malay student at tertiary level—in 1993, and the Architecture Angullia Scholarship in 1987-89. He 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. He has volunteered with various organisations, mentored young artists and professionals, and spoken at various events.
Jeffrey’s deep appreciation for architectural detail and historical significance shines through his artworks. His depiction of heritage landmarks and historical places has earned him the nickname, "Building Whisperer." His works have been exhibited in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Korea and Vietnam, and can be found in the collections of government ministries, organisations, and private individuals.
Using bold, unrestricted strokes, Alunan Biola (Sounds of the Violin) reflects his deep connection to music. This series pays tribute to his late father, Wandly Yazid (1925-2005), a legendary music composer, former musical director for Cathay-Keris, and recipient of the COMPASS Meritorious Award. Through his art, Jeffrey bridges the visual and auditory, echoing the melodies of the past in distinct strokes and rhythmic compositions.
“I know and 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 create my art work, it’s a spontaneity where I let gravity and a natural order flow.
Alunan Biola take me back to the days I had played music and also helped my late father, Wandly Yazid, a music composer, in the rearrangement on some of his music writings. Depicting musical instruments in art signifies a joyous celebration of talent. Painting violins reminds me of the passing of time, that all beautiful things must end, and how we can preserve and share his legacy and memory. It is also a tribute to all the dedicated pioneers of our Singapore music and film industry.”
