James Zhao

Artist Statement
My artistic journey is rooted in a lifelong fascination with the majesty and spirit of horses. Although my academic background is in engineering, art has remained a constant passion—quietly nurtured since childhood and embraced more fully later in life. Working primarily with oil on canvas, I strive to capture the strength, grace, and vitality of these magnificent animals through a realistic style that honors both their physical presence and emotional depth.
In my work, I focus intently on the defining features of the horse, particularly the eyes and face. The eyes, to me, are windows into the soul—conveying emotion, character, and a silent story that invites viewers to engage on a deeper level. The carefully rendered faces further express each horse’s unique personality, offering a moment of connection between subject and observer.
In contrast to the realism of the horse itself, I use bold and textured abstract backgrounds to heighten the visual tension and movement within the composition. This juxtaposition emphasizes the lifelike figure while evoking an energetic and emotional atmosphere, allowing the viewer’s imagination to enter the scene.
My goal is to breathe life into each painting—so that the horse might s...

The University of Wollongong, Australia