Objective Exploring the theories of inheritance, development, and innovation in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Chinese painting throughout the course of Chinese civilization, providing new perspectives for research in traditional cultural disciplines. Methods Conducting research on the interdisciplinary field of TCM and Chinese painting from multidimensional perspectives encompassing material properties, philosophical foundations, and integrated applications. Results TCM and Chinese painting are intricately intertwined within the realm of Chinese traditional culture, demonstrating mutual enlightenment and symbiotic development. Conclusion The interdisciplinary interaction between TCM and Chinese painting visually articulates TCM theories through artistic expressions, while infusing artistic creation with conceptual inspiration drawn from medical diagnostic culture. Together they construct the distinctive "convergent origins of medicine and art" knowledge system intrinsic to China's outstanding traditional culture.