Zhang Zuying, a prominent figure in the realm of oil painting, possesses a profound passion for art which has guided his artistic journey for over six decades. With a career that spans various prestigious institutions and organizations, Zhang has left an indelible mark on the development of Chinese oil painting. His dedication to the art form, his relentless pursuit of excellence, and his unwavering commitment to his responsibilities have earned him widespread acclaim and admiration.
Early Career and Achievements:
Born in China, Zhang Zuying embarked on his artistic path during a period of immense cultural transformation. In 1967, he was assigned to Beijing to work on the artistic decoration of subway stations as part of the burgeoning Beijing subway project. Since then, his involvement in preparing major events such as the “Huangshan Conference” and the Chinese Contemporary Oil Painting Exhibition has solidified his position in the art community.
His collaborative partnership with esteemed institutions such as the Chinese Artists Association, Chinese Oil Painters’ Association, and the Chinese Academy of Art Research Institute, among others, demonstrates his substantial contributions to the field. Notably, Zhang served as the Secretary-General of the Oil Painting Art Committee of the Chinese Artists Association and Vice-Chairman of the Chinese Oil Painters’ Association. His pivotal roles in these organizations have allowed him to actively shape the landscape of contemporary oil painting in China.
Artistic Excellence:
Zhang Zuying’s artistic prowess manifests through a dynamic range of genres and subject matters. With a fervent love for oil painting, he has devoted himself to continuous exploration and creation. Notably, his captivating series of portrait paintings, such as “The Difficult Journey of Entrepreneurship” (a portrait of Marshal Chen Yi), exhibit his ability to depict specific themes and contexts. By employing an evocative and realistic style, Zhang brings his subjects to life, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
In his landscape paintings, Zhang demonstrates an exceptional ability to capture the beauty of nature. Traveling across the country, he finds inspiration in the majestic landscapes beyond the Great Wall and the rivers that wind through the North and South. His series including “Ancient Path,” “Water Village,” “Mountain,” and “Love Song of Terraced Fields” embody his unique poetic experiences and spiritual expressions. Through his artwork, viewers gain not only a visual appreciation of his subjects but also a glimpse into his profound inner world.
Contributions to the Artistic Community:
Beyond his own artistic pursuits, Zhang Zuying has played a vital role in the development of Chinese oil painting as a whole. Through his involvement in various national academic organizations, he has diligently worked to secure resources, organize exhibitions, seminars, and publications, and develop professional career advancement plans. His unwavering dedication has been instrumental in the advancement and recognition of oil painting as a significant and respected art form in China.
Upcoming Exhibition “Artistic Poetics”:
To celebrate Zhang Zuying’s brilliant artistic career, the prestigious Phoenix Art Capital Museum is hosting the exhibition “Artistic Poetics: Zhang Zuying’s Oil Paintings” from October 15, 2023, to November 10, 2023. Under the guidance of the Wuxi Municipal Party Committee Propaganda Department, the Wuxi Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio, and Tourism, and the Wuxi Literary and Art Association, this exhibition is organized by the Chinese Artists Association, the China Oil Painting Society, the Art Research Institute of China National Academy.
Appreciation of Selected Artworks: