Sergeant Chung Kin-san's paintings proved a real hit during his recent exhibition, with scores of art buffs sampling his works at the Chinese University.

About 30 pieces from the New Territories North Region officer's paintbrush, most of them watercolours, were displayed at the University's Shaw College, February 17 to 27.

Mother Nature was the 38-year-old's biggest inspiration, with many pieces depicting landscapes and the changing seasons.

"I grew up in a village in Fanling and was deeply impressed by its natural surroundings. Despite rapid urbanisation, my colourful memories will never go away. They remain the greatest inspiration for my creations," he said.

SGT Chung started his love affair with painting at three and teachers in his secondary school were highly encouraging of their budding young artists and he showed his natural talent. He later attended classes run by several renowned local painters to hone his skills.

"What's really interesting is that some of my classmates joined the Force as well, and specialised in drawing identikit sketches!"

Despite his demanding police career, SGT Chung has enhanced his mastery of the arts, joining a number of associations and staging exhibitions of his work, both locally and abroad. And his hard work has paid off with several of his masterpieces making numerous collectors' albums, and displays at the Hong Kong Museum of Art and the Heritage Museum.

"People are so peaceful in mind when looking at paintings. I think it helps take the anger and violence out of them, and that's good as far as police work is concerned! But seriously, this healthy and relaxing pursuit can really help us cope with the challenges and stresses of our daily work," he said.

SGT Chung vowed to continue his artistic endeavours, and dreamed that his works might one day become legendary.

SGT Chung Kin-san with his masterpieces