GF-EMBA Alumna Ling Ko Donates Monumental Paintings to Taipei Veterans General Hospital
College of Management Faculty and Alumni Attend Unveiling Ceremony to Witnessthe Spirit of Art and Philanthropy
On May 18th, National Taiwan Normal University College of Management Global Fashion Executive MBA (GF-EMBA) alumna, U.S.-based artist and philanthropist Ling Ko recently held an unveiling ceremony for her monumental paintings at Taipei Veterans General Hospital, using art to convey strength, hope, and compassion. Representatives from the College of Management attended the event, including Associate Dean Lin, Shu-Jou, GF-EMBA Executive Director Wu, Jim Yen-Chun, and Professor Chou, Cindy Yunhsin, Executive Director of AACSB Accreditation and International Affairs, to witness this meaningful occasion in which an outstanding alumna gives back to society through art.
In addition to faculty participation, many GF-EMBA alumni attended the ceremony in support under the initiative of Alumni Association Secretary-General Chiang Yi-Hsin, demonstrating the strong bonds and solidarity within the College of Management alumni community. Through this unveiling ceremony, alumni not only witnessed alumna Ling Ko’s commitment to philanthropy through art, but also reaffirmed the spirit of mutual support and collective growth that defines the GF-EMBA community.
As an outstanding alumna of the College of Management’s GF-EMBA program, Ling Ko has long resided in the United States while pursuing dual roles as an artist and philanthropist. Twenty years ago, she studied ink painting under Lingnan School master Yang Shanshen, embarking on her artistic journey in splash-ink painting. Her works have since received recognition from renowned artists such as Dong Mengmei and Chu Teh-Chun. Over the years, her artistic and philanthropic efforts have extended across Taiwan, Hong Kong, the United States, China, the United Kingdom, France, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Nepal, and Brunei. Through charity exhibitions and fundraising art sales, she has continuously given back to society and helped countless patients battling illness regain confidence and hope.
The two large-scale paintings donated to Taipei Veterans General Hospital both embody profound meanings of life and heartfelt blessings. The first piece, Rebirth, installed in the Evergreen Building, measures 204 × 454 cm and is intended to bring hope and courage to cancer patients. Inspired by the Japanese art of Kintsugi—the practice of repairing broken pottery with gold—the artwork symbolizes resilience and the beauty of healing after life’s hardships. Ling Ko hopes that patients facing challenges may draw strength and inspiration from the spirit of rebirth reflected in the painting.
The second piece, The Song of Life, is displayed outside the orthopedic clinic on the second floor of the Third Outpatient Building and measures 149 × 800 cm. The artwork aims to encourage patients with mobility challenges to face treatment with greater courage and determination. Ling Ko shared that although life is full of trials, personal growth and perseverance deepen the meaning of one’s life, and art can become an important source of companionship and encouragement throughout life’s journey.
Ling Ko shared that she has devoted her life to two pursuits—painting and spiritual cultivation. She firmly believes that true art should not merely hang on walls, but should flow among people, bringing inspiration and strength. To her, a smile, gratitude, and acts of love are among the most beautiful forms of art.