Born in Guangdong province in 1905, Professor Chao Shaoan went on to become one of China's most gifted painters and now has a considerable international reputation. He created a new art style by introducing unconventional subject matter and Western art techniques such as shadow and perspective into Chinese painting. Professor Chao has travelled extensively abroad during his career and there have also been numerous exhibitions of his work in many countries throughout the world. His paintings are also to be found in many private art collections in Europe, America and Asia. Professor Chao was made the Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1984 in recognition of his long service to the people of Hong Kong in the realm of the arts.
In recognition of his services to the arts, the University has resolved to confer upon him the degree of Doctor of Letters honoris causa.
