Fort Canning Park

I used to do big format location watercolor paintings. Now I like to travel light with either a A5 sketchbook or a A6 blackbook and my favorite Lamy fountain pen. Here is one rare watercolor and two other pen sketches of Fort Canning Park at different times and different views.

Fort Canning Park has been a landmark in Singapore's early history evolving from the 14th century since Majapahit era to the British colonial days. The two white cupolas, designed by George Coleman, were probably places of rest. The word 'cupola' means a small dome-shaped roof or ceiling. Coleman was a prolific architect who left his mark on the urban landscape of Singapore. His tombstone can be found at the park.

The majestic banyan tree with its exposed roots on the ground and the aerial roots dangling down from the tree provides a unique backdrop for the two white cupolas. The contrast between soft landscape and the hard structure compliments with the rich colors, interesting shapes and fascinating textures. I love this particular view but I did not neglect other beautiful corners of the park. I have a sketch of the cluster of old tombs. The park was once a graveyard for some 600 Christian graves until 1865. Today, the park is a popular spot for outdoor concerts and big events.