Cao Chunsheng (center) views artworks alongside scholars at the Cao Chunsheng Sculpture Gallery in Qingdao, Shandong province. [Photo/Shandong University]

The Cao Chunsheng Sculpture Gallery opened to the public at the Qingdao campus of Shandong University in Qingdao, Shandong province, on June 7.

The artworks in the gallery were donated by renowned Chinese sculptor Cao Chunsheng. Born in 1937, Cao currently works at the Central Academy of Fine Arts and also serves as an adjunct chair professor at Shandong University.

The gallery is located at the Qingdao branch of Shandong University Museum. The exhibition space spans nearly 800 square meters and features over 60 sculptures and more than 40 sketches created by Cao over a career of more than 70 years.

The opening of Cao Chunsheng Sculpture Gallery is an important effort of Shandong University to advance the development of its art disciplines and enriching campus culture, said Ren Youqun, Party secretary of Shandong University.

Building on the gallery, Shandong University has also established the Cao Chunsheng Public Art Research Center, which focuses on advanced academic research, artistic creation, and art education.

Cao said the gallery's opening marks a new beginning. He plans to work with Shandong University to create more artworks reflecting the spirit of the new era and people's lives, nurture new artists dedicated to the people, and continue advancing art research and education nationwide.