The Hong Kong Arts Development Council (ADC), in collaboration with the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, has introduced a novel scheme: Artwork on Loan. The scheme enables members of the public to acquire on loan works of local artists and enjoy them in the privacy of their own home. To mark the introduction of this scheme, a launching ceremony was held on 30 August 2003 at the Hong Kong Central Library. Mr Darwin Chen, Chairman of the ADC and Ms Choi Suk-kuen, Acting Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, were the officiating guests.

Artwork on Loan Scheme is an unorthodox way of bringing the arts closer to people from all walks of life. This not only stimulates arts appreciation but also acts as a tool to enhance communication among family members. Additionally it will help to brighten the home environment and make life less stressful. Besides, mini exhibitions could also be staged in places like schools to arouse students' interest in arts.

Effective immediately, the holder of a public library card is entitled to borrow the works of local artists from the Arts Resource Centre, 10/F, Hong Kong Central Library. Individual card holders can borrow two pieces of work while holders of a group card may borrow five pieces. Over 100 pieces of reproductions of artworks such as digital art, photography, Chinese and Western paintings are included in the lending list.

In line with the scheme, the ADC has launched a new website, E-Gallery, to provide a comprehensive range of services to the many art-lovers. Besides introducing the artworks and the artists of the scheme, a range of new services such as arts tutorials and arts goodies will be available at the E-Gallery in the near future.

Participating artists include Chan Tung-mui, Choi Yan-chi, Ha Bik-chuen, Hung Hoi,
Jao Tsung-i, Ko Nam, Koon Wai-bong, Kum Chi-keung, Kwok Mang-ho, Leung Kui-ting, Leung Mee-ping, Lee Kwok-chuen, Li Tung-keung, Li Yau-mang, Liu Siu-jane,
Liu Tung-mui, Lo Koon-chiu, Ng Yuen-wa, Ou Da-wei, Tang Chak-fung, Tse Ming-chong, Wong Kwok-choi, Wong Sau-ching, Ying Po-chong, Yip Man-yam, Young Hay
and Yung Sau-mui. They are recipients of the various awards such as "Fellowship for Artistic Development", "Emeritus Fellowship" and "Arts Development Award", presented by the ADC. Four of them are members of the Arts with the Disabled Association of Hong Kong.

The artworks are now available for preview on the E-Gallery www.hkegallery.com.