Xi Zhang’s recent paintings explore what it is to be human—to grow and evolve, to navigate relationships, and, often, to struggle. Placing his protagonists amid dream-like landscapes, reality becomes tangled with the complicated nature of how we perceive ourselves, others, and our surroundings. It is in these psychologically driven, often ambiguous narratives that Zhang compassionately depicts universal moments of struggle. Here, he aims to uplift the viewer—to inspire hope and let us know that we are not alone in moments of turmoil and tribulation.

This A.R.T.S. tour inspires students to explore their dreams and emotions in a constructive way; leaving them feeling uplifted and empowered with new insights and tools to use to address emotions that are not always easy to name. Art movements such as Expressionism and Surrealism will be discussed as well as how artists today are keeping these movements alive.