Foreword

Time flies. Established on the historic site of the Lai Chi Kok Hospital, the Jao Tsung-I Academy has now completed its first decade of service as a community centre for art and cultural activities. Persistent hard work and strong dedication of our staff have ensured its sustainability and popularity across our community. today, the Academy is often crowded with visitors and participants of various cultural activities, with excellent feedback from users and stakeholders alike.

On the happy occasion of our 10th anniversary of service, we received from Dr. Simon Suen, Chairman of the SML group, the wonderful news that he would loan to the Academy 68 paintings jointly created by Professor Jao Tsung-i and the legendary four masters of the Lingnan school of painting, for long-term exhibition and enjoyment by the public. Moreover, Dr. Suen generously donated ten million Hong Kong dollars to the Academy, to cover the capital and operational costs of this long-term exhibition. This will undoubtedly enrich the artistic value of the Academy tremendously.

For many decades, Dr. Suen has been a staunch and crucial supporter of Professor Jao Tsung-i and his research activities. He is a Founding Chairman of the Jao Tsung-I Petite Ecole at The University of Hong Kong. As well, he is the key donor and supporter for the Jao Tsung-i Institute of Sinology, and the Suen Institute of Studies in Humanities in China, both at the Baptist University of Hong Kong, along with the Suen Development Fund for Sinology and Art Studies at the Peking University. He is undoubtedly a role model for our community, and his strong commitment to the study and promotion of Chinese art and culture is simply exemplary.

CF Lee GBS, SBS. JP

Chairman of the Management Board

Jao Tsung L Academy