Collection: Blackzao

Taiwanese artist Yi-Shang Zhao, aka Blackzao, born in 1986, started with graffiti in 2002 in the streets of Taichung. In 2006, he founded with other local artists the Virus No. 6 Crew. They specialized themselves in mixing classic graffiti with graphic design to paint their walls.

However, Blackzao work has evolved within the years. Indeed, he started with English lettering for his graffiti. Within the time, he replaced the roman letters by Chinese characters, and mixing them together. Following his evolution and part of himself, he started to incorporate other visual elements such as landscape, nature, life and Buddhism symbols.

Today, in his studio in Taichung, he works on different techniques he acquired by himself and learned in Art school. From spray paint to graphic design, digital drawing, conceptual art, using the brushes and even collage, Blackzao has developed his own style that consists of a retro and neon palette colors. This is the evolution of his eye that transcribe the traditional Taiwanese temple culture. Indeed, he also studied religious art and ancient Taoism calligraphy. These are very similar to graffiti in terms of symbols but also in terms of fluorescent colors that you can find in local temples in Taiwan.

A great connection between graffiti, Buddhism and Calligraphy art defines Blackzao’s style. He demonstrates the harmony in his artworks with traditional Chinese landscapes textures, splash ink and symbols but also keeping his graffiti roots. We definitely feel an energy in his thematic, style and work: acquiring an inner peace somehow.