Paul Koh

Paul Koh is a distinguished Singaporean watercolour artist renowned for his masterful depictions of urban landscapes, architecture, and everyday city life. With decades of artistic practice, he is widely respected for his ability to balance technical precision with expressive spontaneity, making him a highly influential figure in Singapore’s watercolour scene.

Trained in architecture, Paul Koh brings a strong structural foundation to his art. This background is evident in his confident handling of perspective, proportion, and spatial depth, particularly in his cityscapes and streetscapes. Rather than rigidly documenting architecture, however, he infuses his works with atmosphere and movement, allowing light, shadow, and colour to guide the emotional rhythm of each composition.

Working primarily in watercolour, Koh is known for his bold yet controlled brushwork, decisive mark-making, and skilful use of tonal contrast. He often employs a direct, on-site painting approach, capturing scenes with immediacy and vitality. Loose washes coexist with carefully articulated details, creating a dynamic interplay between abstraction and realism. His paintings frequently convey the humidity, light, and energy of tropical urban environments, reflecting a deep sensitivity to place.