Sino Group's Art in Hong Kong programme has received an award from the Hong Kong Arts Development Council in recognition of its significant contribution to arts development locally. The company was singled out for praise after sponsoring a series of events and local artists. Certain properties have been transformed into exhibition areas and workspaces, notably the Fotanian art studios in Fo Tan, Sha Tin. The Art in Hong Kong programme is aimed at creating more opportunities for local artists to display their work and encourage appreciation of the arts among the public. A curatorial team has also been established to manage the scheme. On top of providing free venues and technical support for exhibition installations, Sino shares its marketing expertise to promote exhibitions, including producing and distributing news about exhibitions through its vast database. It also organises a wide range of educational activities including workshops, talks and guided tours to enhance visitors understanding of art. 'The recognition by the Hong Kong Arts Development Council is an important milestone for the Arts in Hong Kong programme,' Nikki Ng, group general manager of Sino Group, says. 'It is an affirmation that it is possible to integrate art and culture into the busy lives of Hong Kong people. We strive to continue our endeavour to create a more culturally vibrant Hong Kong.' Noteworthy events include: The New Face of Ink Painting - Modern Ink Painting Group Exhibition and Symposium, featuring the works of 35 renowned modern Chinese ink painting masters; the Hong Kong contemporary art exhibition Time After Time curated by Chang Tsong-zung and Jaspar Lau Kin-wah, and Influential People Marking the 10th Anniversary of the Handover - Paper-cutting Arts Exhibition by Lu Xue. Sino Group also helps artists with disabilities, in the belief that art can bridge differences between people. The group organises many inspiring exhibitions and charity sales of works by artists with disabilities. Among these are Integration Sculpture and Charity Sale, solo exhibitions of Chan Tung-mui and Liu Tong-mui, and Rising Stars Arts Festival, which presented the works of artists with disabilities from Hong Kong and Japan for two consecutive years. Acclaimed calligraphy artist Lou Zheng Gang's first solo exhibition in Hong Kong, The Path of Heart, will be on view until April 28 in Central Plaza, Wan Chai. The exhibition brings together 34 abstract mixed media works of her Life and Love series which will be collected by the National Museum of China after this exhibition.