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The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)’s Faculty of Medicine (CU Medicine) is celebrating its ruby jubilee with the theme of Succession, Innovation and Dedication, aiming to promote the inheritance of medical competence and ethics, a spirit of innovation, and wholehearted care for patients. One of the celebratory events is an online auction. Several staff and alumni contribute to this special occasion by creating or giving away their favourite artworks and collections for auction. The proceeds will be dedicated to the advancement of the Faculty’s development in medical education, research and community services.

Medicine is not only a science but also an art

Since its humble beginnings in 1981, CU Medicine has thrived and become one of the world’s top medical schools. It not only has become a hub for numerous ground-breaking studies that have shifted the paradigm of clinical practice worldwide, but has also cultivated countless competent and compassionate professionals who have made substantial contributions to the healthcare system in Hong Kong and beyond.

There are many similarities between Medicine and Art. Appreciating artifacts or engaging in artistic creation requires a high level of focus, keen observational skills, tactile sensitivity and hand-eye coordination, much like the practice of medicine does. In fact, many medical professionals are also passionate about art.

The online auction showcases artworks and collectibles from seven renowned professors at and alumni of CU Medicine. They consist of an antique pen holder (京劇名伶尚小雲款草書竹筆筒), an item from the personal collection of Professor Francis KL Chan, Dean; a Chinese painting with the title春風化雨40載，朝氣勃勃創新知 by Professor Philip Chiu Wai-yan, Associate Dean (External Affairs); a cartoon artwork by Dr Lucci Lugee Liyeung, medical alumnus; a photograph by Professor Dennis Lo, Associate Dean (Research); a calligraphy work, Bring in the wine (將進酒) by Professor Enders Ng Kwok-wai, Associate Dean (Alumni Affairs); a calligraphy work featuring an excerpt from Su Shi’s Calm the Waves (節錄於蘇軾《定風波》的 「回首向來蕭瑟處，歸去，也無風雨也無晴」) by Professor Joseph Sung, Emeritus Professor in the Department of Medicine and Therapeutics; and an artwork, Pearl of the Orient, and an ink pen sketch of Professor J.A. Gosling’s portrait with four bottles of whisky using the sketch as a wine label, both by Professor Randolph Wong Hung-leung, Chief of the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery at the Department of Surgery. 

Professor Francis KL Chan, Dean of CU Medicine, remarked, “Over the past 40 years, we have been committed to cultivating healthcare talents. Medicine itself is a fusion of science and art. Both require keen observational skills and tactile sensitivity, and the ability to integrate observed details with knowledge. The generous giving of artworks by our CU Medicine members highlights their knowledge and passion in both medicine and art. We also hope to inspire people through the beauty and culture of artworks and antiquities.”

Professor Philip Chiu, Chairman of the 40th Anniversary Organising Committee, added, “In the specially designed logo to celebrate CU Medicine’s 40th anniversary, the number ‘0’ incorporates the concept of ‘yin and yang’, symbolising the convergence of Eastern and Western medical excellence at CU Medicine. The artworks and collectibles included in this auction also encompass the artistic and cultural spirit of both Eastern and Western traditions. On this significant occasion, we hope that we can not only share fond memories and envision the future, but also embark on this artistic journey with the community.”

The auction is by invitation only. For more details, please visit https://artgallery.med.cuhk.edu.hk/.