Life & Work with Guanyu Zhao

Today we’d like to introduce you to Guanyu Zhao.

Hi Guanyu, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I am Zhao Guanyu, an artist currently about to complete my MFA degree at CalArts. I was born in China in 1999. Since childhood, I have had a great passion for painting, which led me to attend art school to specialize in painting. I enjoy the process of depicting objects vividly with a paintbrush, which gives me a great sense of accomplishment. This sense of achievement has propelled me to turn painting from an interest into a profession. After entering the China Academy of Art, I chose to major in photography and began to explore this fascinating medium. The love for art and the thirst for knowledge have driven me to decide to further my studies in photography at CalArts. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Life is full of challenges and difficulties, whether in academics, career, or personal life. These challenges may seem daunting at the time, but as time passes, I realize that they are valuable experiences. I have faced various challenges, such as creative blocks in artistic endeavors or struggles with difficult coursework. However, through hard work, seeking help, and perseverance, I have overcome these challenges and continued to grow and improve. I know that there will be more challenges in the future, but I am not afraid because I believe that each challenge is a valuable learning opportunity that can help me grow and develop further. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My work focuses on photography, from capturing the lives of those around me to documenting my experiences during isolation through self-portraits. I am constantly exploring various forms of artistic expression. Photography is a language with infinite possibilities. Through continuous study and practice, I have delved into different forms and themes, including photographic collage, abstract art, conceptual photography, and documentary photography. In addition, the increase in freedom of speech and artistic expression has given me the courage to explore political topics more boldly. Since 2023, I have been creating works against the cult of the individual, using my own image as a symbol to question the cult of the individual under any ideology. Looking back to my childhood, doodling in notebooks was just a form of personal entertainment, a way to enjoy myself with my family. However, now as an artist, I feel a responsibility and obligation to engage with society and use art as a means of social commentary. 

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
The most valuable aspect of my mentor’s guidance is not only helping me improve my skills and knowledge but also encouraging me to discover and express my unique voice and perspective. They never try to mold me into someone else’s image but instead, guide me to explore my own uniqueness and integrate it into my work. This freedom and trust are incredibly precious to me because they give me the courage to pursue my own creativity and dreams rather than being confined by others’ expectations and standards. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.guanyuzhao.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zgy_gyz?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr