Statement
"Zach's artwork has infinite layers. From exploring ongoing issues such as climate change, the pandemic, and even his cultural background, Zach’s work symbolizes the struggles we have gone through during these heavy times.
Tai Chi is another form of liberation. Ever since he was certified in 1980, Zach has been determined to reach people through all forms of meditation. Though he is a man of many passions and talents, Tai Chi and art are the two main forms of stress relief, and to be able to intertwine those two passions and talents has been a one of a kind journey. Starting a piece with a few ideas in mind eventually evolves into an slightly otherworldly and unpredictable approach. His work is always and forever evolving. From bold statements and colors to subtle brush strokes, his art speaks for itself and suggests endless possibilities.
Zach has broken all the rules when it comes to his strict cultural background and as an artist.
His art signifies liberation yet explores the puzzling day to day struggles we don’t seem to convey to the outside world. To him, art is the freedom in which we long for. For it is in the bittersweet moments of our lives that motivate us to do better, and to seek a better world." - Meditative Movements at SIY Gallery
Biography
Zach Ma is an Asian American artist born in San Francisco, California. A Vietnam veteran, Zach studied Fine Arts at the San Francisco Art Institute, earning a BFA in 1981, and an MFA with Honors in 1983. He also studied Acupuncture at the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
He studied Tai Chi with Grand Master Doc-Fai Wong, and Qigong with Professor Peng Si Yu. Certified in 1980 by the Tai Chi World Federation, Zach won many national and international championships.
He's been teaching Tai Chi and Qigong classes in the Bay Area for over forty years. Currently, he teaches private lessons, and holds classes at Fort Mason and the San Francisco Bay Club.
