Zhang Ding (*1980 Gansu, Lanzho, China) says “Most Chinese artists have a rational approach toward the making of artworks,”. “I thought that if I just followed my feelings then my work would be different; or at least more real.” In his large-scale mixed-media installations, often incorporating video and interactive components, Ding explores ethnic tensions, the plight of migrant workers, and marginal urban culture that lurk in the recesses of Chinese society. Ding is influenced by the fantastical style of Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini.
From 1998 to 2003, Zhang Ding studied at the North West Minority University in the Oil Painting Department and at the China Academy of Art in Hangzhou from 2003 to 2004. His work has been shown in solo and group exhibitions including Fosun Foundation UCCA Beijing, China (2022), Arken Museum of Modern Art, Ishoj, Denmark (2021), Shanghai, China (solo) (2020), OCAT Shanghai, Shanghai, China (solo) (2019), KWM Art Center, Beijing, China (solo) (2018), Rockbund Art Museum, Shanghai, China and many others. He was featured at Krinzinger Schottenfeld as an Artist in residence in 2008 and has since had his first solo show Gold & Silver at Galerie Krinzinger in 2013.
