Editor’s Note :
Chinese culture lives not only in grand narratives, but also in carved words, calligraphy, painting, and music—where its spirit and beauty quietly endure.
Cultural Express launches its new Culture column to rediscover the warmth and elegance of Chinese culture in everyday life.
In this issue, 92-year-old Professor Teresa Sun reflects on twelve woodcarved classical inscriptions by her late husband,
Terry Sun, revealing the warmth and beauty of Chinese culture.
Terry chose these two pieces of seal carving to express his love for nature and appreciation of Chinese culture.
He was talented in both engineering and art, allowing him to excel in each discipline without them interfering with one another.
Art & Engineering · Flowers & Books
He was admitted to the Department of Mechanical Engineering at National Taiwan University as well as the Department of Art at Taiwan Normal University.
After spending several years working as an engineer, he made the transition to becoming an artist.
The two pieces profoundly signify the harmony between the beauty of nature and the elegance of human character.
The shadows of flowers reflected on the curtain uplift one's spirits, and there on the bed, one would easily notice the books scattered around.
Whether the room is a penthouse or a small, shaded space is not of primary concern; the captivating shadows and the scattered books create the atmosphere of a refined scholar’s studio.
Books & Learning · Culture & Legacy
Education has always been highly respected in China throughout world history.
Chinese intellectuals distinguished themselves by acquiring knowledge and enjoyed the status of the top social class in China since the beginning of its civilization.
The traditional civil examination system established a pathway for social mobility by certifying educated individuals to become officials who would govern the country.
This merit-based policy promoted the idea of "social equality."
As a result, people were motivated to pursue education, and this spirit of valuing education continues to be passed down to future generations, even in today's age of science and technology.
Most importantly, the ethnic and moral traditions can be preserved. Thus, the proverb, "There is gold hidden in books," is well-known among the Chinese.
Mountains & Rivers · Stillness & Grace
Traditional scholars often connect their paintings and poetry with themes inspired by the enduring philosophy of nature--Daoism.
They hold a deep appreciation for mountains and rivers, seeking solace for their inner spirit in the natural world.
By rising above the mundane aspects of life, they find peace of mind and satisfaction in their existence. This symbolism is beautifully represented by water.
Bamboo & Books · Strength & Spirit
Bamboo is easy to plant and grows into a sturdy, durable plant.
Historically, it played a crucial role in recording ancient writings and documents and is considered the origin of books in China.
It symbolizes various qualities of the Chinese people, such as endurance, inspiring overseas Chinese to refer to themselves as "born like bamboo."
Hollow & Humble · Knotted & Noble
Its hollow trunk signifies humbleness, while its knots represent integrity, echoing the sound of the character.
The Chinese admire its shape and color, believing that bamboo stands apart from vulgarity. It is a favored subject in painting, particularly among scholar-painters.
The renowned scholar-statesman Su Dong-Po wrote a famous poem about bamboo, declaring its character.
( Article 8 of 12)
Click to Read More :
Article 1 of 12—May Flowers Bloom, the Moon Stay Full, and Life Be Long
Article 2 of 12—Heaven Moves, Man Strives
Article 3 of 12—The Confucian Way
Article 4 of 12—Nature’s Dao, Spirit’s Rest
Article 5 of 12—Matter of the world and my spirit will last forever
Article 6 of 12—Long Life Shared Moonlight
Article 7 of 12—Peace Within, Strength in Simplicity
About the Author :
Teresa Sun
Teresa Sun received her bachelor’s degree in Chinese literature from Taiwan Normal University, an M.A. in education from UCLA, and a doctorate from Seton Hall University.
She taught Chinese language and culture at California State universities and Whittier College for nearly 25 years, and was active in Chinese language education, cultural promotion, and community service. She has published papers and four books.
Terry Sun
Terry Sun graduated from National Taiwan University in mechanical engineering and continued his studies at USC. An outstanding HVAC engineer, he was named a Fellow of ASHRAE.
After retirement, he developed a unique artistic style combining wood carving and Chinese calligraphy, and his works were exhibited in museums and institutions.