Mengru Zhou

Artist Statement

My painting draws on my personal experiences as I explore the intricate nature of the human condition. My goal is to channel emotions and examine the ambiguous and elusive nature of contemporary life. Through my art, I create alternative states of mind that offer a moment of respite from social pressures, allowing both myself and my audience to escape the anxiety, pressure, and confusion of the real world. I primarily work with oil paints on canvas, carefully selecting colors to evoke feelings of joy and happiness in my viewers. My aim is to connect with my audience on an emotional level, offering a moment of escape and comfort in a world that can often feel overwhelming.

Bio

Chinese artist Mengru Zhou received training at Guangxi Art University before earning a BAA from Central Michigan University in 2017. Zhou’s unique style is informed by her exposure to Chinese painting, woodblock printing, calligraphy, illustration, and photography. Zhou's artwork features visually striking and cheerful compositions that evoke healing, while also exploring themes of insecurity and the relationship between the exterior world and psychological states in her quest for a sense of belonging. Presently she is completing her MFA at Syracuse University.