Recollections

On the evening of 6 May 2004, I sat on board an Indonesian Airlines plane en route from Jakarta to Beijing. By chance I happened to glance down at a Chinese newspaper. The shocking news I came across regarding Mr. Schoeni was hard to believe. With no way of verifying it, I was left with a sleepless night... It was all too sudden.

I met Mr. Schoeni at the end of April in Beijing. I would never have thought that it would become our final parting. Sometimes I still find it difficult to accept the truth that he has really gone. This lingering fear in my heart has kept me from revealing my sentiments for him...

Mr. Schoeni and the Gallery enjoy a great reputation both in Hong Kong and on the mainland. It is a fact that a lot of painters have found success, after being represented by his Gallery for a period of time.

The Gallery is still running as normal, due to its professional operations and international packaging.

Mr. Schoeni had never received any formal training in the art industry. However, because of his talents and business expertise, which he'd acquired over a number of decades, he was able to cement The Schoeni Gallery's reputation by discovering many talented Chinese painters. He was responsible for the globalisation of Chinese art, in addition to Asian art. He was also able to cultivate a passion for Chinese art in a great number of people both locally and overseas. The Schoeni Art Gallery is by far one of the best galleries in Hong Kong, not to mention in the whole of Asia.

He strived to help the painters he worked with realise their full potential. He often discussed art, as well as personal issues with his painters. When his painters faced hardships, he was always there to support and provide them with encouragement. I was deeply touched by this.

There was a period of time when I worked on landscape paintings. Sometimes I could not achieve the desired effect, and the deadlines would loom. Mr. Schoeni was always there to offer his support and advice. In the beginning I had my doubts. However, when I saw the reaction from the exhibitions and received positive comments from viewers, I finally acknowledged Mr. Schoeni's artistic intuition and I admired his accuracy. I was given a chance to improve the standard of my works and was given the opportunity to learn a great many things. He also helped me realise how an artist should cope with the reality of the market, while still maintaining their individual style and interests. His earnest and passionate attitude for his work was wholly inspiring. His spirit will certainly have an impact on my work in the future. I have benefited greatly by knowing him. His passing away was so deplorable and regrettable.

Nicole will now continue the legacy her father left behind and manage the Gallery's work. Old and new customers alike, as well as those who care for the Gallery will be there to support her every step of the way. Artists and art lovers will treasure the 'Schoeni' name even more.

We have a reason to believe that the Gallery will have a future that will shine even brighter.

Mao Yi Gang
July, 2004