Reminiscences of Hong Kong by the Brush: A Celebration of the 100th Birthday of Professor Jao Tsung-i

Exhibition Gallery, Hong Kong Central Library
2 - 8 December 2015

Free admission

Presented by the Home Affairs Bureau
Jointly organised by Leisure and Cultural Services Department and The University of Hong Kong
In association with the Jao Tsung-I Petite Ecole, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Heritage Museum, Hong Kong Museum of Art, Art Promotion Office, Hong Kong Public Libraries, The Seal Engravers' Society of Xiling and Jao Tsung-I Petite Ecole Fan Club

Supported by: Jao Tsung-I Academy, Jao Tsung-I Academy of Sinology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Federation of Hong Kong Chiu Chow Community Organizations, Hong Kong Chiu Chow Chamber of Commerce, Soka Gakkai International (SGI), Soka Gakkai International of Hong Kong, Associação Budista SGI de Macau, Jao Tsung-I Academy, Macau, Jao Tsung-I Art Gallery, Guangzhou Jao Tsung-I Academic and Art Academy, Jao Tsung-I Petite Ecole, Chao Zhou, Tianyige Museum, Dunhuang Academy, Jao Studies Foundation Ltd., and Jao Tsung I Foundation Ltd.

Internationally renowned for his academic achievement and knowledge in numerous fields, Professor Jao Tsung-i is equally outstanding in his artistic and literary endeavours. In recognition of his contribution to the research and promotion of traditional Chinese culture, this exhibition is organised to coincide with the celebration of Professor Jao's 100th birthday. Selected exhibits include paintings and calligraphy by Professor Jao, as well as a collection of his academic masterpieces, manuscripts and letters. They present a comprehensive survey of the master's academic and artistic accomplishments over the past eight decades.

Since his departure from Chaozhou to settle in Hong Kong in the 1940s, Professor Jao has been deeply impressed by the local scenery. He makes frequent excursions around Hong Kong, making sketches at various sites. Around 40 pieces in this exhibition focus on the beautiful landscapes of Hong Kong. In some of the paintings, Professor Jao assimilates the styles of different ancient masters when depicting the scenery. In others, he opts for a mixture of Chinese and Western artistic techniques. Although he has inherited the spirit of the Chinese literati painting, he rarely adheres strictly to traditional rules. Therefore, his landscapes often express a unique sense of charm and personal style. His sincere sentiment for his hometown is clearly evident in these works.

To give the audience an insight into Professor Jao's achievements in art and the academia, as well as some interesting anecdotes of his life, the Hong Kong Central Library is organising a public seminar during the exhibition period.

Public Seminar (Free admission)

Exhibit Highlights

Lantau Island in Rain 2003 Colour on paper

Pokfulam in Rain 2003 Colour on paper