Liu received his art education from the best of both hemispheres. Translated these influences and incorporated local Southeast Asian flavours into his work to create the distinct Nanyang style. Attributed to Singapore’s pioneer artists – Chen Wen Hsi, Chen Chong Swee, Cheong Soo Pieng and Liu Kang, the Nanyang style of art first emerged after the four pioneer artists’ return from a study-cum-painting trip in Bali in 1952.

Some of his well-known paintings from this era include: “Artist and Model” (1954), “Batik Workers” (1954) and “Balinese Girl in Red Sarong” (undated).

Liu Kang is a prolific artist and painter. His oeuvre of works is extensive and includes oil painting, pastel, Chinese ink painting, and calligraphy. Over Liu’s lifetime, he had been exhibited in Singapore and overseas including France, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan and the United States.