BLANK CANVAS: Chinese art a family tradition for Nelson’s Zen Wang
Published 2:00 pm Thursday, April 16, 2026
From early days immersed in art books and Chinese brush painting, Zen Wang’s creative path was shaped by a family of skilled makers. Now based in Nelson, he draws inspiration from the mountains, the warmth of the community and the freedom to keep discovering new challenges in his work. This week we step into his world and learn more about the artist behind the work.
What’s your background/training/story as an artist?
Artistry runs in my veins because my grandma was a talented embroiderer from Hunan. She could produce beautiful patterns without looking at a single sketch. My grandpa was a sculptor who learned his craft by doing. He carved tombstones for foreigners who were buried in China. He had to sculpt angels and Jesus just from photographs. I became interested in art ever since I was able to rummage through the art books in my family library. I was trained in Chinese brush painting and was known as the “Horse Boy” in my hometown because I was very good at drawing it.
Why did you end up in Nelson?
My family moved to Nelson because a friend introduced the Kootenays to us. We took a road trip here and my eldest daughter fell asleep on the way. When she woke up among the mountains she said: “Mabel home!” She was two at the time.
What keeps you here?
The people and nature keeps us here. We love nature and we love the small town feeling. People are nicer, kinder and more receptive here than anywhere else we’ve lived.
How did you score your biggest professional gig?
Some of my biggest art projects were made possible because there is so much activity and funding toward art creation in this region. I feel the people here know the importance of art in our lives. I don’t have to convince them about that first. This makes a huge difference in promoting art in our communities.
Any hot tips for people who want to live rurally but be a professional artist?
No real hot tips but just keep making connections with people. Be yourself, be honest, be open, be likeable. Keep creating and keep learning. I also have a Master’s degree in business, so maybe a bit of business sense is also needed to make your lifestyle sustainable. When I started out I didn’t say no to any opportunities, no matter how crazy they sound. I also don’t take on a project that I know 100 per cent how to finish. The process of discovery is what keeps me going.
Do you have any new projects in the works?
I am part of the Castlegar Sculpture Walk this year. Please visit them and vote for my sculpture, which is called “Roar.” When I am not making art, teaching art or talking about art I host a radio show on Kootenay Co-op Radio on Wednesdays at 1 p.m. called Asian Roots. I volunteer at my local firehall and I am a level three swiftwater rescuer. Come hell fire or high water, I got your back.
During Chinese New Year, I do lion dances for schools and community events with my buddies. I love to eat so I teach Chinese cooking classes through the Kootenay Coop Grocery Store’s community kitchen. If you want to see more of my art please visit my website: zenartstudio.ca. People can sign up for my monthly newsletter by writing to zenmaster3301@gmail.com.
Sydney Black is executive director of the Nelson and District Arts Council. Blank Canvas appears monthly.