Born in Taipei in 1950, I was fortunate to begin learning painting at the age of seven.
I graduated from Fu-Hsin Trade & Arts School and pursued further studies at Otis/Parsons School of Art and Design in Los Angeles.
I do not hold a master’s or doctoral degree—my only formal title is that of a Private First Class in the Republic of China Air Force.
At the age of sixteen, I was fortunate to be guided by an inspiring mentor, who helped me realize the deeper importance of what to paint rather than merely how to paint.
From that point on, I understood the value of independent thinking and became convinced that painting was my life’s calling.
Since 1969, I have continuously produced numerous works in painting, illustration, and interior design.
I value freedom and do not place blind faith in academic credentials or follow any particular art movement.
My strength lies in storytelling through images—painting what I wish, when I wish.
I rarely participate in art competitions—not because of disdain, but because I have always imposed the strictest, most rational, and objective standards upon myself.
Still, I have received honors such as the Golden Tripod Award and accolades from “Best Books for Everyone to Read” and other literary awards.
My interests are broad: creative expression in various forms, classical music, deep observation through travel (especially in free countries or regions), and a love for history—particularly modern military history, which I believe continues to shape our world in profound ways.
In terms of artistic philosophy, I focus on clear, emotionally resonant themes, rigorous technique, and disciplined craftsmanship.
By working prolifically and efficiently, I have gained recognition from a wide audience, leading to many of my pieces being collected.
This creative approach diverges sharply from the traditional Chinese scholar-gentry or elite literati view of the artist as someone above the common people.
Instead, I see myself as a working-class artist, rooted in the everyday.
In 1983, I moved to the United States to pursue art full-time.
Knowing that my time and energy are limited, I have not attempted to reform entrenched cultural mindsets.
Instead, I chose to focus on making a living through my art. Only after securing a stable footing would I be able to return to the local Taiwanese themes and everyday life that I hold dear.
Over the decades, this grassroots approach to art has proven not only sustainable but also compatible with the ideals of many in the American mainstream: that art should be accessible and reach the people.
It has also won support from audiences in Europe, Japan, and elsewhere—enabling me to make a modest living and survive to this day.
Though I reside abroad, I never forget to contribute—however modestly—to fostering what I call “cross-strait relations.”
No, not between China and Taiwan—but between the two sides of the Pacific: the United States and Taiwan.
I have both written and illustrated my own works and collaborated with writers on many picture books.
Among these, Sketches of Time: An Epic of Ordinary People’s Lives in Taiwan is one of my most representative works.
My personal creative journey has also been partially documented in the film An Odyssey of Dreams.
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