10F Room 1010
馬光亞 Guang-Ya Ma (1914-2005)
Introduction Guang-ya Ma (November 1, 1914 - September 1, 2005), born Jian-zhong Ma (馬建中), was a renowned traditional Chinese medicine practitioner in Taiwan.
Since childhood, he had a deep love for literature and the arts. He sharpened carving tools for the painter Bai-shi Qi (齊白石), which provided him the opportunity to self-study seal carving and painting techniques. Also, he was deeply influenced by his grandfather, Wen-cai Peng (彭文彩), who often taught him to read books, poetry, Tangtou Gejue (湯頭歌訣) and learn medical practices. He apprenticed at his father's Chinese medicine shop by day and studied writing under his brother's guidance by night, cultivating a profound literary foundation.
Throughout his half-century-long medical career, Guang-ya Ma dedicated himself to training numerous outstanding practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine, leaving behind many books that generously shared his clinical experiences. Despite his busy schedule, he remained passionate about literature and the arts. After retiring, he immersed himself in painting, frequently depicting plum blossoms and bamboo. He enjoyed inscribing poems, practicing calligraphy, and occasionally painting figures and birds, especially doves, symbolizing his hope for people to cherish peace. His works reflect his deep appreciation for life and reverence for Chinese culture.
Guang-ya Ma achieved remarkable success in both Chinese medicine and education, and his prolific contributions to poetry, calligraphy, painting, and seal carving have left a splendid legacy in the realms of literature and art.
The following work reflects Professor Ma’s noble character and attitude towards the world:
Left: 修身豈為名傳世,作事應思利及人
"Self-cultivation is not for fame to pass down through generations; in doing things, one should consider benefiting oneself and others."
Right: 虛竹幽蘭生靜氣,和風朗月喻天懷
"Bamboo and orchids thrive in tranquility, gentle breeze and bright moon reflect the heart of heaven."