Sanzi Artworks 散子作品集

 Artist Biography

   Sanzi (散子), born in April 1965 in Jiangsu Province, China, is a well-recognized contemporary artist known for his mastery of oil painting and his unique blend of techniques that combine Western painting styles with traditional Chinese methods such as ink, metal, and wood work. Over the years, he has exhibited his work internationally in cities including New York, Paris, Hong Kong, and Beijing, with solo exhibitions in Hong Kong (2009), Shanghai (2010), Miami (2011), and New York (2012). His distinctive style and achievements have earned him multiple awards, making him one of the prominent figures in today’s Chinese art scene. He currently lives and works in Shanghai.

Drawing inspiration from his life experiences and a deep understanding of Taoist philosophy, Sanzi’s art reflects both technical mastery and spiritual depth. His approach combines innovative techniques, a pursuit of perfection, and a strong creative vision. This has attracted collectors and admirers worldwide, including Liu Guangjie, Xiang Huaguin, Dai Zhikang, and Kong Zhong. His works have also been displayed at the Shanghai World Expo and the Shenzhen Museum.

One of Sanzi’s most renowned series, rooted in Taoism, reimagines the teachings of Laozi. This body of work helped establish his reputation as “Sanzi in the form of Laozi.” Notable pieces from this series include Lotus Fragrance 荷香 (collected by Shenzhen Museum), Seven Deities 七仙 (featured at the Shanghai World Expo), Celestial Ethics 天道(collected by Dai Zhikang), and Virtuous Mountain 山贤 (acquired by former U.S. President George Bush). In addition to his artwork, Sanzi has also published books such as Immoral · Moral · Collection of Sanzi’s Works and Seeking for Immortals.

Sanzi’s paintings often feature Chinese fairyland-like settings that resonate deeply with viewers. His art conveys the idea that while all things are shaped by the forces of nature, life itself—and the pursuit of health, meaning, and happiness—are the truest forms of beauty. He emphasizes that cherishing life, following nature’s rhythm, and nurturing compassion are keys to achieving peace and fulfillment.

Early Life

Sanzi was born on April 22, 1965, in Yangzhou, China, and was given the birth name Wang Xiaolong. His father came from Yangzhou, Jiangsu, while his mother was from Pingxiang, Jiangxi. He was an only child. Sadly, his father passed away shortly after his second birthday. His widowed mother, just 46 years old, raised him with love and strength despite the great hardships they faced. During the Cultural Revolution, as an intellectual, she often lost jobs and had to relocate frequently to make ends meet.

As a child, Xiaolong was quiet, thoughtful, and often immersed in his own world of ideas. Witnessing the struggles his mother endured, he grew up with a strong sense of resilience. His mother moved often, and during this time he later adopted the tag name “Sanzi.”

While attending elementary and middle school in the Hunan countryside, Xiaolong’s neighbor was a traditional Chinese artist. He grew fond of this artist, who became his mentor and encouraged him to study. Their apprenticeship lasted until the early 1980s, when his mother returned to full-time work after the Cultural Revolution. They then moved to Changsha City in Hunan.

Changsha: Studying and Teaching

In 1983, Xiaolong enrolled at the Fine Arts Institute of Hunan Normal University in Changsha. There, he studied traditional Chinese painting, calligraphy, and European oil painting and sculpture. After graduation, he received a post-graduate research scholarship and was also assigned to teach new students. He also joined the Hunan Academy of Art.

During this time, he began experimenting with paint and design, working with multimedia and mixed techniques influenced by Conceptual Art and Post-Modernism. His subjects included landscapes, figures, and still life. He also explored functional design, such as creating clocks that combined wood carving and metal work.

In 1997, Xiaolong left Changsha for the fast-growing city of Shenzhen, seeking fresh inspiration and opportunities to showcase his work.

Shenzhen: Career Beginning

When he first arrived in Shenzhen, Sanzi struggled to showcase his work. At the time, Shenzhen was focused heavily on business and commerce rather than art. His style, which broke away from conventional Chinese traditions, was not immediately accepted by local dealers.

After facing rejection and growing frustration, he decided to take matters into his own hands. He rented a small studio in Dafen, a suburb in Buji, North-West Shenzhen, and named it “Wang Xiaolong Studio.” It became the space where he exhibited much of his work.

Dafen, known for producing affordable art replicas, became a stepping stone. By 2000, Xiaolong’s original works began drawing the attention of European collectors visiting Dafen who appreciated the uniqueness of his art. This recognition not only gave him exposure but also the financial means to create larger-scale exhibitions and projects.