Tao Ho
Ho Tao (Chinese: 何弢; Jyutping: ho4 tou1; pinyin: Hé Tāo; 1936 – 29 March 2019) was an architect from Hong Kong.
Background
Ho was born in Shanghai in 1936. He graduated from Williams College and then studied architecture at Harvard University and worked as a personal assistant to the Bauhaus founder Walter Gropius. He has been teaching and practising in Hong Kong since 1964.
He served as president of the Hong Kong Institute of Architects from 1994 to 1998.[1] As president, he criticised the proposed design for the new Hong Kong Central Library. This was controversial because the HKIA code of conduct stated that members should not criticise other members' work unless they inform that party in advance. Ho responded that absent criticism, architects may suffer from "narcissism".[2]
Designs
He designed the Hong Kong Arts Centre in 1977. A hanging piece created by Ho, entitled "Synergy of Dynamic Energy," is installed in the West Hall area of the Hong Kong International Airport's passenger terminal.
Ho also designed the Bauhinia emblem and the flag of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
Awards
In February 1997, Ho was awarded the Crystal Award by the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, honoring him as a leading international artist and architect and for his contribution to bridging the cultures of the East and the West.
Personal life
Ho suffered a stroke in 2002.[3]
Ho died from pneumonia on 29 March 2019 at age 82, three days after admitted to Ruttonjee Hospital.[4]
References
- ^ "Past presidents of HKIA". Hong Kong Institute of Architects. Retrieved 14 December 2016.
- ^ Tacey, Elisabeth; Buerk, Simon (17 August 1997). "The good, the bad and the ugly". South China Morning Post. p. 32.
- ^ Sun, Andrew (14 July 2006). "Ho draws big names". South China Morning Post.
- ^ Mok, Danny; Wong, Olga (30 March 2019). "Pioneering architect Tao Ho, known for designing Hong Kong Bauhinia flag and buildings such as Arts Centre, dies at age 82". South China Morning Post.