Zhenlin Zhang

About

Postgraduate student in RCA(Current student), Experienced in Various forms of Painting now emphasize the creation of oil painting. Work has been recognized through its inclusion in the Curated Selection by Art Maze Mag’s 33rd open call. Keen to become a contemporary artist.
Graduated with First-Class honours fromthe University of Reading, where his work was recognized through selection in the 33rd edition of the Art Maze Mag’s open call. His notable exhibitions and recognitions include ‘Many Shades Of Love’ at the Rising Sun Arts Centre in February 2022, where his work was selected for full participation and a speech. Additionally, his workhas been recognised by institutions like the Freelands Foundation.
His recent exhibitions include appearances at the M P Birla Millennium Art Gallery for the Transitional Traces Exhibition in March 2024, The Noho Showrooms for “The Future of Belonging” in May 2024, and the Peckham Arches for “Are We
There Yet?” in April 2024.
In December 2023, Zhenlin was the recipient of the December Grant at Artsin square.
In June 2024, a solo exhibition titled “Tibet: Cultural Assimilation Through a Theatrical Lens” will be held at Their Gallery. In July 2024, a group exhibition titled “Within and Without” will take place at Liliya Art Gallery.

“Tibet: Cultural Assimilation Through a Theatrical Lens”
In the captivating series “Tibet: Cultural Assimilation Through a Theatrical Lens,” a Royal College of Art student specializing in oil painting presents a profound exploration of Tibetan culture, framed within the realms of philosophy, literature, and poetry. This collection weaves a narrative that juxtaposes the spiritual depth of Tibet against the backdrop of global materialistic influences.
Marked by a symbolic immersion into rain-drenched Tibet, interpreted locally as a welcoming omen, the artist sets the stage for a series that delves into the intricate balance between spiritual serenity and material desires. The heart of the collection lies in the artist’s skillful fusion of modern societal elements with traditional Tibetan motifs, creating a dialogue between contemporary global culture and the unique traditions of the Tibetan highlands. Employing oil paints, the artist masterfully blends the diverse skin tones of the global population with the distinct complexions native to the Tibetan plateau. This approach extends beyond visual aesthetics, capturing the essence of Tibetan life where everyday objects, nature, and animals transcend their mundane existence to become sacred symbols. The series invites viewers to reevaluate societal norms, encouraging a deeper understanding of the complexities of cultural assimilation and the fluid boundaries between disparate worlds.
Each painting in the series is a narrative tableau, rich in theatrical drama and steeped in philosophical thought. The artworks illuminate the subtle yet profound impact of economic and material aspirations on a culture steeped in spiritual traditions. Through this artistic endeavor, the series becomes more than a collection of paintings; it is a journey of introspection, challenging and reshaping perceptions of cultural identity and the interconnected nature of our world.