At the cultural event series titled "Ma Guoxin: My Design Career - Architectural Cultural Book Exhibition" held at Tianjin University on March 20th, Ma Guoxin, a notable member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, reflected on his enduring passion for writing, which has seen him produce a remarkable 36 books over the span of his career.
Ma Guoxin, now 82 years old, embarked on his literary journey with the publication of his first book, "Kenzo Tange," in 1989. Since stepping back from the frontline at the age of 60, he has devoted extensive time and effort to writing and contributing to various publications. He emphasized the significance of books in extending one's longevity, citing a quote from a letter written by Fei Zhengqing to the renowned Chinese editor Zhao Jiabi. Ma expressed his determination to continue writing, drawing inspiration from Fei's words, and shared his contentment in knowing that his books could provide inspiration to readers.
Formerly serving as the Chief Architect of the Beijing Institute of Architectural Design & Research Co., Ltd., Ma Guoxin has left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape with projects such as the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall (1977), the National Olympic Sports Center (1990), Beijing Capital International Airport Terminal 2 and Parking Building (1999), and the Chinese People's Anti-Japanese War Memorial Sculpture Park (2000). The exhibition, "Ma Guoxin: My Design Career - Architectural Cultural Book Exhibition," held at Tianjin University Library, comprehensively showcases Ma's achievements in architectural design and academic theory.
The exhibition, located on the first floor of the university library, presents two main themes for visitors to explore. The first theme revolves around Ma Guoxin's architectural creations, focusing on seven aspects including his initial design experiences, documentation of the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, internships at Kenzo Tange's office, involvement in the Asian Games construction and Beijing Olympic bids, planning and design of Beijing Capital International Airport Terminal 2, planning of the Chinese People's Anti-Japanese War Memorial Sculpture Park, and Ma Guoxin's design philosophy. The second theme highlights Ma's literary contributions over the past 35 years, featuring his 36 authored and co-authored books covering various topics such as reflections on forty years of Japanese architecture, essays, photography collections, biographical anthologies, specialized treatises, architectural arts, and poetry collections, along with his contributions to collaborative works.
Academicians from the Chinese Academy of Engineering praised Ma Guoxin's multifaceted talents, acknowledging him as a master architect who seamlessly integrates music, calligraphy, and painting into his cultural pursuits. They lauded his diligence, remarkable memory, and the invaluable insights gleaned from years of dedicated work and study, encouraging present and future generations to emulate his spirit of learning and exploration.
The exhibition received acclaim from Jin Lei, Vice Chairman and Secretary-General of the 20th Century Architectural Heritage Committee of the China Cultural Relics Society, who commended it as the first showcase in the domestic architectural community to trace the literary lineage of a design master. Jin described the exhibition as a vivid portrayal of Ma's passion for architecture and his profound insights, encompassing both the historical journey of the Beijing Institute of Architectural Design & Research Co., Ltd., and the industry's collective aspirations and reflections.
Gold Wei Xin, the curator of the exhibition and Director-General of the 20th Century Architectural Heritage Committee of the China Cultural Relics Society, emphasized the authenticity and emotional depth of Ma Guoxin's writings, noting their significance as genuine humanistic narratives that offer readers a unique and profound experience.
Following the opening ceremony, an academic symposium titled "Ma Guoxin: My Design Career - Architectural Cultural Book Exhibition" brought together over 30 experts and scholars to share insights and discuss the future development of architectural culture.
Ma Guoxin in front of the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall in 1977. (Photo provided by the organizer)
Ma Guoxin delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the exhibition. (Photo provided by the organizer)
