Collection: Jie Wei Zhou: The Motivation of Expression

Figure paintings, especially of Chinese and Tibetan subjects, comprise the vast majority of my artistic creations. During the pandemic, I reexamined materials for sketches that I collected on a previous visit to China. This process inspired me toward new ways to express my emotions that cannot be expressed through words – only through painting. Seeing the world through the eyes of children is a special interest of my recent paintings. Sometimes their stories are clear, other times ambiguous. This is among the reasons that painting is unique. Through painting, I can share my feelings with the audience. Like good music, art can reach its audience in ways that leave a strong, lasting impression. All I have to do is express my innermost emotions without hesitation. This is why I paint. - Jie Wei Zhou

Jie Wei Zhou is a master realist who works in oil, watercolor and acrylic, his brushwork  infused with a radiant, impressionistic quality.   Born in Shanghai PR China, Zhou studied Russian and French painting styles while attending Shanghai Normal University and later received a Masters in Fine Art from the Shanghai Drama Institute.   Based in Colorado, he is recognized for this stunning figural works that primarily depict the tribal people of Tibet, Mongolia and China.  Known for capturing the rich costumes and cultures of these people dating as far back as the eighteenth century to present day, he conveys a story and invokes emotion in each of his works.   Through sharing these narratives and memories he hopes to increase the understanding and appreciation for Asian cultures and remind viewers of their own similar experiences.