Lily Foo Sau Kwan, born in 1971 in Perak, Malaysia, is an artist who has made remarkable strides in Chinese ink painting, seamlessly blending tradition with abstraction. Though she began her artistic journey later in life, her passion and dedication have propelled her to notable achievements in a short span of time.
Foo's exploration of Chinese ink painting began in 2018, when she immersed herself in the techniques of traditional ink art. This foundation enabled her to develop a deep understanding of brushwork, ink flow, and
composition—essential elements that define this ancient art form. As her skills grew, so did her curiosity and desire to innovate. In 2022, she took a bold step into abstract Chinese ink painting under the mentorship of Tay Poi San, embracing a more expressive and modern approach to the medium.
Her artistic evolution has not gone unnoticed. In 2018, she participated in the Culture Arts Competition organized by the Teochew Eight District Association and was honored with the Award of Excellence in the Youth Section.

In 2023, she further cemented her reputation by securing Second Prize at the Malaysia Ink Painting Contest, a recognition of her technical prowess and artistic vision. Most recently, in 2024, she won the Silver Award at the Superior Culture International Competition, a prestigious black-and-white painting competition hosted in Hong Kong. These accolades reflect her rapid rise and growing influence in the art world.
Lily Foo’s work is a testament to the harmony between tradition and innovation. Her paintings convey a sense of fluidity, movement, and emotion, often inspired by nature and personal introspection. The fusion of structured brushstrokes with abstract elements allows her to express both the discipline of classical techniques and the spontaneity of modern artistic expression.
Her journey is an inspiring reminder that artistic passion knows no age limits. From mastering traditional Chinese ink techniques to pushing creative boundaries with abstraction, Lily Foo Sau Kwan continues to make an impact in the art world. With her unique style and relentless pursuit of artistic excellence, she is undoubtedly a name to watch in the realm of contemporary Chinese ink painting.