Officials and artists cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony of Xiling School in Hong Kong on April 23. [Photo/zjol.com.cn]

Xiling School, a cultural exchange platform built by the Xiling Seal Art Society, Joint Publishing (HK) Co Ltd and Tsi Ku Chai, a HK dealer in Chinese traditional books, paintings and calligraphic works, began to offer classes on Chinese arts in Hong Kong on April 23.

The society, a Chinese arts organization based in Hangzhou, capital of Zhejiang province, was founded in 1904. It is the earliest Chinese society formed by specialists in seal engraving, calligraphy and painting. The school is an extension for Xiling art in the special administrative region.

The members of the Xiling Seal Art Society and well-known artists are invited to give lectures and training courses about traditional arts to HK's local residents.

"Xiling Seal Art Society is an organization of artists who have achieved profound cultural accomplishment. The cooperation between the art society and Tsi Ku Chai is a strong connection which will be beneficial to the cultivation of HK's artists," said King Yeo-chi, former president of The Chinese University of Hong Kong, expressing his appreciation for the joint effort.

Chen Zhenlian, vice president of the organization, gave the first lecture at the school on April 23. Chen said he hoped by practicing traditional arts like calligraphy, seal carving and painting, students will have a better understanding of Chinese arts.

In addition, an exhibition of Chen's calligraphy works is being held on the sideline of the classes.