CHINESE FINE ARTS SOCIETY
Our Mission
The mission of the Chinese Fine Arts Society is to introduce and educate audiences about the rich history of Chinese culture through the arts.
Founded in 1984 by Shanghai‑born piano teacher and cultural ambassador Barbara Tiao, the Chinese Fine Arts Society has become one of the leading champions of Chinese music, dance, and visual arts in Chicago. What began as one woman’s dream to share the richness of her heritage has become a vibrant network of cultural exchange that encompasses live events, artist development, and community engagement.
For the past four decades, CFAS has introduced the cultural wealth of China and the Asian diaspora to Chicago and the Midwest through our performances, community engagement, and educational programming. By hosting events at major venues such as Millennium Park, the Art Institute, the Chicago Cultural Center, and Navy Pier, CFAS has reached thousands of people and increased awareness of Chinese and Asian diasporic cultures across generations. From concert halls to libraries, nursing homes, parks, and community centers, CFAS aims to engage diverse audiences and foster cultural understanding.
Today, CFAS stands as a testament to Barbara Tiao’s legacy and a dynamic platform that continues to inspire artists and audiences, both within the Chinese diaspora and beyond, to explore the beauty of both traditional and contemporary Chinese arts.
OUR PROGRAMS
CFAS’s programming falls into three main categories:
Main Stage Events
Our Main Stage events feature performances that celebrate both traditional and contemporary Chinese and Asian diasporic arts. We showcase renowned Chinese composers, musicians, visual artists, and performers, highlighting a variety of themes. Additionally, we have an Artist in Residence program that supports the production of a selected artist’s work for one season.
Educational Programming
For over 35 years, CFAS has hosted the Music Festival in Honor of Confucius (MFHC). This festival invites young musicians to explore the rich heritage of Chinese music, celebrating both traditional and contemporary repertoire. Through performances, competitions, and mentorship, MFHC provides students with an opportunity to enhance their skills while engaging with Chinese musical traditions in a focused and supportive environment. The festival brings together participants from across the Midwest to receive feedback from experienced educators, connect with peers, and grow as both musicians and cultural thinkers.
Community Engagement
CFAS often collaborates with various institutions to host multidisciplinary events at public venues in Chicago, as well as smaller cultural programs at educational institutions, libraries, nursing homes, and other locations.
