Ink Paintings, Fine Arts and Art Theory
Asian Arts Insights
explained by a practitioner
Friedrich Zettl is a contemporary artist working primarily with ink, brush and calligraphy. His work explores abstraction, gesture, nature and the expressive possibilities of ink, drawing on the traditions of Chinese painting and calligraphy. Daoist and Zen philosophy provide an important conceptual background to his artistic practice.
Art reflections, Zen Art and Daoist Concepts
Over 50 years ago, he first encountered Chinese art. His immediate thought was: “This is applied philosophy.” Essentially, this remains true today. To truly grasp Asian art, one must engage with philosophies like Daoism and Zen Buddhism.
Sparked by this new passion, he began studying Sinology in 1976 and subsequently spent five years living in China. Notably, he became the first European student admitted to the prestigious CAFA, the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing after the Cultural Revolution. There, he met many significant artists and teachers.
From West to East
Before this turning point, he painted primarily in oil and dedicated himself to Western genres like Expressionism and Surrealism. However, his artistic expression shifted abruptly. He abandoned Western styles to devote himself entirely to Chinese painting and calligraphy. Eventually, he wrote his dissertation on this subject, specifically about xieyi painting.
About this Website on Arts and Philosophy
Decades of studying original Chinese texts and practical application have brought him closer to the core of Asian art. While he previously gave lectures and published occasionally, the internet now serves as his primary medium. On this blog, he regularly publishes articles focusing on the philosophical aspects of Daoism and Zen. He also present new artworks shaped by these thoughts. In both cases, he strives for clarity. He uses simple language to reach both experts and those just beginning their journey in this field. You can find his own works, organized by theme, on his portfolio page.
An Invitation to Arts and Philosophy Blog
Alongside his artistic practice, Friedrich Zettl writes about Chinese painting, calligraphy, aesthetics and the philosophical ideas that have influenced his work.
Explore Arts and Philosophy Topics
Shop and Video Channel on Art and Philosophy Blog
Selected artworks by Friedrich Zettl are available as originals or high-quality prints in various sizes. at: FriedrichZettl.com
Short videos introducing Zettl’s artwork, art reflections and playlists related to art and culture at: Friedrich Zettl video channel
Latest posts on Arts and Philosophy Blog
From SEO to Water Lilies
This post covers two major themes from my summer. First, I share a refreshing trip to the Kuenringerbad in Dürnstein, a natural swimming pond where you can swim right next to water lilies beneath a historic castle ruin. Second, I switch to the technical side of blogging. I share my recent experience cleaning up my…
A Conversation with a Skull
In this post, I share one of my favorite Daoist stories: Zhuangzi’s “The Death’s-Head.” It offers a clear, direct perspective on life, death, and the burdens we carry. To accompany the text, I included several of my own skull paintings that reflect my thoughts on form, emptiness, and the natural balance of yin and yang.
Nature’s Calligraphy: The Art of Seeing
We see how we think. What occupies our mind directly shapes our vision. In this post, I share a series of photos of ducks and swans that document my artistic shift from visual abundance toward minimalism. By observing waterfowl in their natural environment, you can trace what was driving me at the exact moment I…