The opening ceremony of the exhibition of art by the four founders and presidents of the Xiling Seal Art Society takes place in Hong Kong on April 8. [Photo/zjol.com.cn]

An exhibition of work by the four founders and presidents of the Xiling Seal Art Society is being presented at Hong Kong Central Library from April 8 to 12.

The Xiling Seal Art 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.

This is the first time art from the traditional Chinese art organization has been exhibited in Hong Kong. A total of 105 seal engravings, calligraphy pieces and paintings are on display, offering a glimpse of the society's significant achievements and history.

Jao Tsung-i, 100, a famous scholar of Chinese studies and the current president of the Xiling Seal Art Society, addressed the opening ceremony of the exhibition. As a cultural researcher, he said his dream is to rejuvenate Chinese cultures. On behalf of the society he expressed his expectation that art from Xiling will spread around the world.

Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, also attended the ceremony and expressed her delight in the cultural activity. She said Hong Kong is an international city attractive to both Chinese and western cultures and public exposure of Chinese traditional cultures is necessary for the city's development.