"Art: The Philosophy in Every Brushstroke."
Biography
Friedrich Zettl, an Austrian artist, creates captivating paintings, graphic art, and calligraphy that seamlessly blend Western and Eastern aesthetics.
His artistic journey began with Western painting, but a profound passion for Chinese culture and art led him to explore new horizons.
Education and Artistic Development
From 1978 to 1985, Zettl studied Sinology and Chinese painting at the prestigious Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing. During this period, he wrote his dissertation on a specific aspect of Chinese painting, deepening his knowledge and practice of this ancient art form. Before his immersion in Chinese art, Zettl exhibited his expressionist oil paintings across Europe. However, his exposure to traditional Chinese painting techniques and philosophy transformed his artistic approach, infusing his work with Asian thinking and aesthetics.
Artistic Style and Techniques
Zettl's art is characterized by its unique fusion of Western and Eastern elements. His brushwork and compositions are heavily influenced by the techniques and philosophy of Chinese calligraphy. Primarily working on paper, he employs fine inks and has developed his own techniques that blend Western media with Asian concepts in innovative ways.
Exhibitions and PublicationsFriedrich Zettl has showcased his art in numerous solo and group exhibitions across Europe, Asia, and South America. He has also contributed to several books on Chinese art. His works are a testament to his versatility and ability to bridge cultural divides through art.
Artistic Vision
Living and working in Vienna, Friedrich Zettl continues to seek new inspirations and challenges. His art serves as a bridge between the Western and Eastern worlds, showcasing a harmonious blend of diverse cultural influences. Through his innovative and versatile approach, Zettl remains a dynamic and influential figure in the art world.
Influences
Arnulf Rainer, Huang Binhong, Oskar Kokoschka, Max Ernst
Education
The artist at work
Solo Expositions
1992 Verbandsgemeinde Birkenfeld Birkenfeld, Birkenfeld, Germany
1992 Verbandsgemeine Herrstein Herrstein, Herrstein, Germany
1990 friedrich zettl à bruxelles Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
1989 Kulisse, Wien Wien, Wien, Austria
1988 Presshaus Wien Wien, Wien, Austria
1987 BAWAG Wien Wien, Wien, Austria
1984 UNO Headquaters Peking Beijing, Beijing, China
1983 Peking Central Academy of Fine Arts (now CAFA) Beijing, Beijing, China
1982 Cafe Zentral Wien, Wien, Austria
1981 Ergo Nachtatelier Wien, Wien, Austria
Collective Expositions
2022 Group exhibition at Hong Art Museum of Contemporary Art Chongqing, Sechuan, China
1995 Kunstraum Lilo Berka - Georges Holper Wien, Wien, Austria
1983 Central Academy Beijing, China Peking, Beihing, China
1980 Ergo - Nachtatlellier Wien, Wien, Austria
1976 Bona Mente Wien, Wien, Austria
