Zhang Ruo

1982 Born in Handan, Hebei Province
2006 Graduated from the Department of Sculpture, School of Art and Design, Hebei Normal University
Zhang Ruo’s original name was Zhang Qiang. When asked why he changed his name from “Qiang” (Strong) to “Ruo” (Weak), he replied, “Because I’ve been feeling pretty weak lately.” This is the candor of an artist—a quality he has always possessed. “Only when I’m creating my own work do I feel truly alive; a work of art is a living entity with its own breath.” For Zhang Ruo, the creative process is the most fulfilling part of his life. From the initial concept and design to the finished piece, transportation, and packaging—the entire process is akin to a farmer cultivating the land: selecting seeds, sowing, fertilizing, watering, and harvesting. It represents a relatively ancient way of life, free from the distractions of the modern world, one that must be savored slowly.