1974

Fragrant Lotus and Stout Ducks and Grapes and Birds are put on exhibition at the 26th International Fair held in Montreal, Canada.

1984

Yu is appointed the vice-president of the Jiangsu Traditional Chinese Painting Institute.

1986

An exhibition of Gong Bi flower and bird paintings by Yu Jigao is held at the Beijing Art Museum.

1987

Yu is appointed vice-president of the modern Gong Bi painting association of China.

1988

Yu is named honorary president of the Jiangsu flower and bird painting association. His work The Crane and Lasting Spring is added to the collection at Chairman Mao Memorial Hall.

1990

Yu becomes a member of the Academy of Chinese Painting.

1993

Yu is appointed vice-president of the Jiangsu Artist's Association.

1997

Yu has a one-man exhibition at United Nations headquarters and receives a certificate of merit from the UN for his achievements in painting and contributions to global cultural exchanges.

1999

Yu creates the biggest Gong Bi flower and bird painting in history for the reception hall at Zhongnanhai in Beijing.