HONG KONG.- The Hong Kong Heritage Museum of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) will stage the "PICASSO - Masterpieces from Musée National Picasso, Paris" exhibition as one of the highlight cultural events to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

The exhibition is jointly presented by the LCSD and the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, and jointly organised by the Hong Kong Heritage Museum and the Musée National Picasso, Paris. It will be held from May 19 to July 22 at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum.

The exhibition is also one of the highlights of the 20th anniversary of Le French May, of which LCSD is a major partner.

An LCSD spokesman said today (March 28), "The LCSD is proud to present this magnificent exhibition in Hong Kong. The exhibition will feature 55 original works by Picasso, covering every phase of Picasso's prolific career from his Blue, Rose, Primitive and Cubist stages to Neoclassical and Expressionist.

"Apart from showcasing masterpieces by the acclaimed artist, the exhibition will also feature some 50 photographs and four documentary films. These materials will greatly enrich visitors' understanding of Picasso and his art.

"This will be the most comprehensive exhibition of Picasso's works ever held in Hong Kong and we expect the exhibition will be a huge draw for the Hong Kong public and visitors," the spokesman added.

Due to the gallery's limited capacity and the short exhibition period, the Hong Kong Heritage Museum will extend its opening hours from 10am to 8pm daily with scheduled viewing sessions. The museum will be closed as usual on Tuesdays.