Sanzi 散子

Born 1965, Jiangsu, China

One of the leading figures in contemporary Chinese art. Known for blending Western painting techniques with traditional Chinese ink painting, metalwork and woodwork, his practice bridges Eastern philosophy with contemporary artistic expression.

His works have been exhibited internationally in cities including New York, Paris, Hong Kong and Shanghai, and are held in prestigious museum and private collections.

 

Artistic Philosophy

At the heart of Sanzi's practice is Taoist philosophy.

Rather than depicting nature as scenery, his paintings explore harmony, balance and humanity's relationship with the natural world. His dreamlike landscapes and symbolic figures invite quiet reflection, encouraging viewers to slow down and contemplate the rhythms of life.

His celebrated Seeking for Immortals series, inspired by the teachings of Laozi, has become one of the defining bodies of work in his career.

 

Artistic Journey

Sanzi studied at the Fine Arts Institute of Hunan Normal University, where he received formal training in Chinese ink painting, calligraphy, European oil painting and sculpture.

In the late 1990s, he established his first studio in Shenzhen. Despite early rejection, his distinctive artistic language soon attracted international collectors, paving the way for exhibitions across Asia, Europe and the United States.

 


Recognition

  • Featured at the Shanghai World Expo (2010)
  • Works housed in the Shenzhen Museum
  • Solo exhibitions in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Miami, New York, Paris and Beijing
  • Widely recognised as one of China's leading contemporary artists

Selected Collectors

  • Consultant of George H. W. Bush 
  • Dai Zhikang
  • Liang Guanglie
  • Xiang Huaqiang
  • Kong Zhong

Publications

  • Immoral · Moral – Collection of Sanzi's Works
  • Seeking for Immortals

Awards & Milestones

  • International exhibitions across Asia, Europe and the United States
  • Featured at the Shanghai World Expo
  • Works collected by museums and prominent private collectors
  • Published multiple books documenting his artistic philosophy

 

 

 

Seeking for Immortals Sequel | 《寻仙记后续》 | 散子 Sanzi

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Art Gallery

Exhibition Highlights

  • Hong Kong (2009) — Sanzi held a solo exhibition that marked an early pinnacle in his international recognition.
  • Shanghai (2009–2010) — A compelling follow-up solo exhibition in his home country, drawing significant media and collector interest.
  • Art Basel Miami (2011) — Sanzi’s work was featured by Taglialatella Galleries, where it shared the stage with icons like Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, and Andrew Wyeth.
  • New York (2012) — Sanzi’s first major solo exhibition in the U.S., reinforcing his standing in the international contemporary art scene
  • Taipei & Southeast Asia (2013–2016) — Participated in Art Revolution Taipei, Asia Contemporary Art Show (Hong Kong), Art Expo Malaysia, Art Stage Singapore, and Singapore Contemporary Art Show. These regional showcases expanded his influence and reach
  • Art Busan (2014) — Exhibited in South Korea’s leading art fair, adding another prestigious milestone to his exhibition history
  • Laguna Beach, USA (2019) — The opening of the Sanzi Art Gallery in Laguna Beach marked a milestone, with a dedicated exhibition space showcasing his Taoist-inspired works.
  • Shanghai (2012) — Unveiled his “Seeking for the Immortals” series at his gallery in Shanghai’s M50 Art District; later toured to New York, Paris, and Singapore within the same year