XIANG ZHANG

Xiang Zhang was born in China in 1954 and developed his artistic passion in the midst of China's Cultural Revolution. His father recognized his talent and nurtured it, providing him with an art tutor, access to National Geographic magazines, and anatomy studies using bones from locked-up science labs. Zhang's formal training in set design at the Central Academy of Drama in Beijing, with an emphasis on oil painting, combined with exposure to Russian masters and Western influences, laid the foundation for his distinctive style.

 

A scholarship led him to Tulane University, where he honed his skills and immersed himself in New Orleans' vibrant arts scene. It was in Texas that Zhang discovered his calling in painting cowboys, spending time on ranches to understand their lives intimately. His art captures the essence of ranching life, from small single cowboy portraits to epic historical narratives, using vibrant colors and masterful brushwork.

 

Zhang's work has earned him a global following, with his pieces gracing collections worldwide. He exhibits at prestigious shows like Prix de West, Briscoe Western Art Museum, and Autry National Center's Masters of the American West Fine Art Exhibition. His artistry reflects the profound connection between cowboys and their horses, and his dedication to historical accuracy is evident in every composition. Xiang Zhang resides in Dallas, Texas, with his wife, Lily, and his work is celebrated in numerous publications and art collectors worldwide.