Professor CSA Print Ma Wan 125 Ma Wan

The vertical format immediately establishes a sense of monumental scale and upward aspiration. Here we observe a landscape dominated by towering rock formations, rendered in a palette of muted ochres, browns, and creams. The artist has employed a technique that emphasizes texture; the surfaces of the rocks appear layered and weathered, with visible brushstrokes contributing to their perceived age and solidity.
The composition is structured around a central axis of ascending peaks. These are not depicted as isolated entities but rather as part of an interconnected system, where each rock formation seems to emerge from and support another. The artist has skillfully used atmospheric perspective; the distant peaks appear paler and less defined, creating a sense of depth and vastness.
At the base of the composition, a cluster of trees – primarily pines – adds a touch of life and detail to the otherwise austere scene. These trees are meticulously rendered, their branches reaching upwards as if striving towards the heights above. A few small figures can be discerned amongst the foliage, suggesting human presence within this grand landscape, though they remain subordinate to the overwhelming power of nature.
The inscription on the right side provides contextual information – likely a title and artist’s signature – but its placement also serves to integrate calligraphy into the visual language of the painting. The vertical orientation of the text mirrors the verticality of the landscape itself, reinforcing the sense of upward movement.
Subtly, the work conveys themes of resilience and endurance. The weathered rocks suggest a history of time and change, while the persistent trees symbolize life’s ability to flourish even in challenging environments. The small figures hint at humanitys place within this larger natural order – a position marked by both humility and aspiration. The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation, inviting the viewer to reflect on the relationship between humankind and the enduring power of nature.