Bulletin Autumn 1975

Interview with Prof. Cheng Te-Kun of the Fine Arts Department Prof. Cheng Te-k’un, world-renowned Chinese archaeologist, has been Visiting Professor of Fine Arts of this University since 1974. Prof. Cheng, educated at Yenching University, obtained his B.A. and M.A. degrees in 1930 and 31, and was awarded a Ph.D. degree in 1941 by Harvard University. Before his appointment as Reader in Chinese Archaeology at Cambridge University in 1966, he taught at various universities: Amoy University, West China Union University, Princeton University and Malaya University. Besides contributing to the Harvard Journal of Asiatic Studies, To ung Pao, Antiquity, Oriental Art,and Artibus Asiae ，Prof . Cheng is the author of Archaeological Studies in Szechuan, Archaeology in China and Archaeology in Sarawak. Q : The Fine Arts programme of this University is primarily a comprehensive as well as in- depth study of Chinese art, putting the emphasis on the historical, theoretical and practical aspects of Chinese painting, calligraphy, seal-carving etc. Wh at do you think is the rationale behind such a programme? Wouldn't it seem too narrow when compared with the programmes of other universities? O r is it part and parcel of the distinctive feature of this University? A . : The emphasis of the Fine Arts programme is best explained by the geographical setting of The Chinese University, whose educational policy should be, inter alia, the study of Chinese culture, which is indeed a continuing concern of Hong K o ng at large. Q . : Is Hong Kong, in particular C U H K , a vantage ground for the study of Chinese art? A . : Studying Chinese art is no easy matter. We need specimens for study and books for reference. As regards specimens, the collections of Hong Kong's few museums are small, but fortunately we have many rich private collections. With these private collectors the Art Gallery of the University maintains a very close relationship and often draws on their invaluable collections for exhibitions. Such exhibitions have benefited not only staff and students of the University but also interested members of the public who otherwise would not have a chance to view and study them. The recent Exhibition of Mi ng I-min Paintings and Calligraphy is a case in point. As for the purchase of art books, the University has spared no effort in acquiring reference works. 6