Nathan Tan Yew Wai (b. 1995, Singapore) is an artist, printmaker, and freshwater aquarist known for his evocative exploration of Singapore's freshwater bodies and natural landscapes. His practice is deeply rooted in capturing the subtle trace of human presence in overlooked corners of the city, employing methods ranging from found objects to underwater documentation and observation. Through his proficient and stylistically varied printmaking and mixed media techniques, Nathan offers audiences windows into his ecosystemic narratives, addressing environmental and anthropological concerns.
Nathan holds a Diploma in Fine Art, specializing in Drawing and Printmaking, from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts. Following his studies, he served as the Printmaking Technical Officer at the institution’s Faculty of Arts and Design, managing the print workshop and offering technical guidance to students. His internship at STPI Creative Workshop & Gallery, where he contributed to Education & Outreach programmes, further enhanced his practical knowledge, technical skills, and artistic insight.
His work has been exhibited internationally, including in Germany, Indonesia, Japan, Netherlands, Singapore, Thailand, United Kingdom and Vietnam, with venues such as Aire Place Studios, Gmünder Kunstverein, Hearth by Art Outreach, INSTINC Space, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Orasis Art Space, S.E.A. Aquarium, among others. Additionally, his work was selected for inclusion in both the core collection of the 8th Graphic Art Biennial of Szeklerland in Romania and the 4th ASEAN Graphic Art Competition and Exhibition in Vietnam, extending the global impact of his artistic vision.
Nathan is currently a recipient of the Tan Chin Tuan (Creative Education) Scholarship and the NAFA Talent Development Programme for his Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Fine Art with the University of the Arts London at NAFA.