Tingquan Zhang, an artist, is seen at the Harn Museum of Art on Monday, November 14, 2022. Photo by Courtesy to The Alligator | The Independent Florida Alligator
Source: The Independent Florida Alligator
by Valentina Sarmiento
Knelt over bright cherry hardwood, 42-year-old Tingqun Zhang unfolded a 20-foot canvas over his living room floor.
Slightly frayed edges frame the abstract piece while streaks of yellow, orange and green acrylic paint compromise for space in the foreground. Blots of blue submit to black and gray, and a curious pink peeked through occasionally.
“Others think it is quite simple at first glance,” he said.
Every day, Zhang invites old friends over to drink tea at his house. The activity helps him stay connected with his native China, he said.
Born to a folk carpenter in the coastal province of Fujian, China, the Gainesville-based artist established himself in art spaces through Chinese calligraphy brushes and oil paintings.
He did not become an artist for the money, he said.
“Normally in China, parents don’t encourage children to pursue art,” said Zhang.
He is grateful for his father who was supportive of his artistic pursuits, he said.