This event has ended
Over the past decade, the lotus flower became a primary subject in Professor Jao Tsung-I's paintings. He pioneered numerous new techniques and directions in lotus painting, making it a symbol of his continuous exploration in the art of painting. Therefore, when planning a touring exhibition in China, the Jao Tsung-I Petite Ecole, The University of Hong Kong, Friends of Jao Tsung-I Petite Ecole, and the Jao Studies Foundation unanimously agreed on the lotus as the theme. Thus, the "Lotus Auspiciousness – Professor Jao Tsung-I Lotus Painting and Calligraphy Tour Exhibition" was born.
Professor Jao once explained the reason for his recent fondness for painting lotuses. His father named him "Tsung-I," meaning to follow the Song Dynasty Neo-Confucian master Zhou Dunyi. Zhou Dunyi loved the lotus throughout his life, and his "Ode to the Lotus" is one of the most important essays praising the lotus throughout history. However, according to Professor Jao, the most significant inspiration for his unique lotus style was Bada Shanren's "River Flowers Scroll.
As noted in the first part of "The Blooming of Jao's Lotuses," titled "Why I Enjoy Painting Lotuses": "Hu Yin (1098–1156), in his 'Preface to the Wine-Side Lyrics,' commented on Su Dongpo's poetry: 'It refreshes the eyes and ears of the world.' Jao's lotuses can also be said to have achieved this." This exhibition aims to showcase Professor Jao's advocacy of "integrating scholarship with art" and his ever-progressing creative power through his lotus works.
As one stop on the tour, this thematic exhibition holds a special connection with Macao, as the lotus is the central motif of Macao's regional emblem. Another connection is that the Macao Museum of Art held the "Universal Lotus World" special exhibition at the Macao Handover Gifts Museum to celebrate Professor Jao's 90th birthday, which beautifully complements the "Lotus Auspiciousness" exhibition. The myriad forms and perpetual vitality of the lotuses under Professor Jao's brush symbolize the continuous prosperity and development of our cultural endeavors.
Art Exhibitions
