Art and Philosophy Blog
Asian Arts Insights
explained by a practitioner
Art reflections, Zen Art and Daoist Concepts
Over 50 years ago, I first encountered Chinese art. My 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, I began studying Sinology in 1976 and subsequently spent five years living in China. Notably, I became the first European student admitted to the prestigious CAFA, the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing after the Cultural Revolution. There, I met many significant artists and teachers.
From West to East
Before this turning point, I painted primarily in oil and dedicated myself to Western genres like Expressionism and Surrealism. However, my artistic expression shifted abruptly. I abandoned Western styles to devote myself entirely to Chinese painting and calligraphy. Eventually, I wrote my 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 me closer to the core of Asian art. While I previously gave lectures and published occasionally, the internet now serves as my primary medium. On this blog, I regularly publish articles focusing on the philosophical aspects of Daoism and Zen. I also present new artworks shaped by these thoughts. In both cases, I strive for clarity. I use simple language to reach both experts and those just beginning their journey in this field. You can find my own works, organized by theme, on my portfolio page.
An Invitation to Arts and Philosophy Blog
I invite you to explore Asian thought on these pages and take a look behind the scenes of my creative process. I hope you find inspiration here.
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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
Every Day an Adventure, Every Day a Joy
Yunnan Spring Greetings (IV) “Every day an adventure, every day a joy.” It might sound a bit cliché, but here, one experience really does chase the next. We actually cancelled our planned trip to Mangshi (芒市) because Heshun and its surroundings simply have too much to offer. A couple we are friends with drove all the…
Density, Depth, Tradition, and Authenticity.
Yunnan Spring greetings (III) Density, Depth, Tradition, and Authenticity. Ever since my very first experiences in China back in 1978, these four concepts have been inextricably linked with my understanding of the country and its culture. So let’s first turn our gaze to a place that embodies all these qualities in a truly venerable way:…
Just Shaxi and Fengyu. Yunnan Spring Greetings (II)
Journey to Shaxi (沙溪) On the way from Dali to Shaxi, we passed through Fengyu (凤羽). It’s a quiet, traditional town, famous for its intricate stone carvings and inkstones. A good place to see the rural side of Yunnan before entering the Shaxi valley. Authentic Flavors We had lunch there and the restaurant was simple…
