From left: Ms. Patti CHEUNG, Associate University Librarian; Mr. Kevin WONG, Project Coordinator;
Ms. LI Lai Fong, Honorary Consultant; and Mr. Benjamin MEUNIER, University Librarian
Published in 2024, this album showcases the remarkable pith paper paintings collected by the CUHK Library. These artworks, created in 19th century Guangzhou, vividly depict daily life scenes from that era. The album includes seven thematic sections: Tea Plantation, Rice Cultivation, Boats, Costumes, Entertainment, Punishment, and Nature. Due to their Chinese themes, affordable prices and portability, these paintings became popular souvenirs among European and American traders, collectors, and sailors residing at the port. These small pith paper paintings not only bridged the gap of mutual understanding between the East and the West but also reflected the Westerners’ romantic imagination of this exotic land.
The receipt of the Publishing Award reaffirms CUHK Library’s mission to curate, preserve, and promote its cultural heritage collections. All are welcome to access the digitalised pith paintings, which have been made available through the CUHK Digital Repository to increase accessibility and encourage engagement.
Hong Kong Publishing Biennial Awards
Organised by the Hong Kong Publishing Professionals Society, the Hong Kong Publishing Biennial Awards are held every two years to recognise and honour outstanding publications, authors, and publishers in Hong Kong. The awards encompass nine categories, including Literature and Fiction, Business Management, and Art and Design. Nine titles are selected within each category to receive the Publishing Award; one Best Publishing Award is also awarded. The 2025 awards drew entries from 102 eligible local publishers. The award presentation ceremony was held on 16 July 2025, coinciding with the opening of the 35th Hong Kong Book Fair. Roving Exhibition on the Winning Books of the Hong Kong Publishing Biennial Awards 2025 has been organised at various public libraries from August to November 2025.