SHILI [Shi Zhigang] | Contemporary Artist and Poet
Lives and works in Montreal
Postgraduate of Capital Normal University in Beijing, majoring in the materials and techniques of classical oil painting and tempera.

Exhibited and Collected in the US, Canada, Australia, Germany, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and China. Selected for the 9th National Watercolour Exhibition as well as the 10th and 11th National Art Exhibitions in China. Received numerous international awards, including cultural contribution honours from the Prime Minister of Canada and the Canadian House of Commons.

Published in Hebei Arts Literature (1978–2011), The Contemporary Oil Painting: Youth Album, Construction Knowledge A+A, Hebei Youth Poetic Canon, Hebei Poems (1978–2011), and The Chinese Poetry, etc. Director and Deputy Secretary-General of Hebei Oil Painting Society. Espace d’Expressions et de Création Canada, Hebei Provincial Art Association &; Composition Association. etc.

ARTIST’S STATEMENT

A true artist is one who turns life into Art!
His inspiration comes from daily observations, reading, writing, and meditation. His use of colour and form is influenced by classical masters such as Titian and the Impressionists, along with a profound admiration for Song and Yuan dynasty paintings.

He has explored the imagery and musicality of poetry using classical oil painting materials and techniques. His concepts integrate Western philosophy with Eastern mysticism, particularly the ideas of Laozi and Zhuangzi, reflecting a deep exploration of the meaning of life.