Chinese contemporary artist Xu Bing has been appointed as an ambassador for cultural promotion, with the government saying he will help with its efforts to propel Hong Kong's rise as a cultural hub.

Xu graduated from the Central Academy of Fine Arts in 1981 and then stayed on there teaching.

His artworks have been exhibited in places like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the British Museum and the Museum of Modern Art in New York. One of his most famous installations, “Book from the Sky”, is currently displayed at the Hong Kong Museum of Art.

“He had served for several leading roles and was the former Vice President of the Central Academy of Fine Arts. [That] brings him a wealth of experience in arts education having lived and worked both in mainland China and abroad,” Culture Secretary Kevin Yeung said at an appointment ceremony on Thursday.

“His international exposure is exceptionally an ideal professional, enhancing Hong Kong's position in cultural exchange and fostering the growth of our local talents.”

Xu said he is deeply honoured to be given the ambassador role, adding that he has a profound appreciation for Hong Kong's cultural and artistic characteristics. He said Hong Kong's "East-meets-West" cultural blend strongly resonates with his own artistic philosophy.

The government said Xu will hold the role for five years and will focus on curating large-scale art projects.

Chinese composer, musician and conductor Tan Dun is also an ambassador for cultural promotion, having started a five-year term in the position in January last year.