California
Xindi Zhao, Sunshine on Highway, oil, 30 x 40.
Art Education: BFA and MFA in painting from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco.
Style: My focus is on cityscapes.
Creative Spark: I enjoy walking around the city and looking for unique architectural styles. I had a chance to study in Florence, Italy, for one semester. My experience motivated me to explore many subjects, including sculpture, film, new media, and animation. But I became especially inspired by European architecture. It is so distinctive and embodies the evolution and history of a city. After I came to the United States, my interest in urban architecture has continued. It is the best representative of a place—its history and culture.
Second-Choice Career: Architect.
Other Passions: Photography.
Best Advice Received: “Good art is art that allows you to enter it from a variety of angles and to emerge with a variety of views.”
Biggest Fear: That I am unable to find a job.
Favorite Studio Music: I like a wide range of music, but I listen to pop music when I paint.
Future Goals: I want to stay in San Francisco and continue to study and paint. In addition, I want to take part in art exhibitions and competitions and sell my works in galleries and open-studio events. I also want to share my knowledge and passion with people.
Representation: www.artstation.com/johnnyxindizhao.
This story was featured in the September 2020 issue of Southwest Art magazine. Get the Southwest Art September 2020 print issue or digital download now–then subscribe to Southwest Art and never miss another story.
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