Yao Tuo, originally from Luzhuang, Gongyi, Henan, was born Yao Tianping and also used the name Yao Kuang. He was a renowned writer and calligrapher. He graduated from the Central Military Academy in China and served as publisher and chief editor of Chinese Students Weekly, University Life, Students Weekly, and Chao Foon Monthly. He was one of the founders and advisers of the Malaysia Calligraphy Association. In his early years he studied Wang Xizhi and was later influenced by Pu Ru. His strokes are firm, elegant, and vigorous; large and small characters alternate with continuous momentum, linked movement, rich variation, and natural fluency. Through diligent practice he gained deep skill, and the clear rhythm within his relaxed manner reflects a cultivated artistic spirit. He summarized his life with the words: ?I devoted all my talent to cultural work and never boasted of personal achievement.?