Friedrich Zettl
Friedrich Zettl is an Austrian artist who specializes in painting, graphic art, and calligraphy. He began his artistic career with Western painting, mostly oils.
He pursued his interest in Chinese culture and art by studying Sinology and conducting research at the Academy in Beijing (CAFA). During this period, he shifted his focus to Chinese painting and wrote his dissertation on an aspect of this art form.
Zettl was the first European to have the opportunity to study at the Central Art Academy in Beijing after the Cultural Revolution. He explored Chinese painting further and completed his dissertation on it. Zettl had previously shown his works in Western style, especially expressionist oil paintings, in Europe. However, after learning about traditional Chinese painting in theory and practice, he changed his perspective and integrated Asian thinking into his work. His brushwork and composition are influenced by the technique and philosophy of Chinese calligraphy. He also has a close affinity with Daoism and Zen Buddhism, which are reflected in his work.
Zettl works mainly on paper and uses fine inks and ink. He has developed his own techniques that combine Western media and Asian concepts in novel ways. His influences include Arnulf Rainer, Huang Binhong, Oskar Kokoschka, and Max Ernst. Zettl has exhibited his works in numerous solo and group exhibitions in Europe and Asia.
He has also published or illustrated several books on Chinese art published by oe.g.c.f and Bacopa Verlag. Friedrich Zettl is a member of the Austrian-Chinese Friendship Association (ÖGCF), which organizes various events and exhibitions about China in Austria. He has given several lectures and presentations about Chinese art, especially Chinese painting and seal cutting, at the ÖGCF and the Confucius Institute of the University of Vienna.
He lives and works in Vienna. Friedrich Zettl is a versatile and innovative artist who builds a bridge between the Western and Eastern worlds. He is always looking for new inspirations and challenges.
Discover contemporary artworks by Friedrich Zettl, browse recent artworks and buy online. Categories: contemporary austrian artists. Artistic domains: Painting, Drawing. Account type: Artist , member since 2022 (Country of origin Austria). Buy Friedrich Zettl's latest works on Artmajeur: Discover great art by contemporary artist Friedrich Zettl. Browse artworks, buy original art or high end prints.
Artist Value, Biography, Artist's studio:
Latest Artworks by Friedrich Zettl • 32 artworks
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This gallery showcases the latest artworks by Friedrich Zettl. They are shown in this section for a[...]
This gallery showcases the latest artworks by Friedrich Zettl. They are shown in this section for a limited time before they are transferred to their respective themed galleries.
Zen Paintings - Silence in Color • 26 artworks
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Zen Paintings: Harmony Found in Color and Form
Immerse yourself in the world of Zen with our captivating[...]
Zen Paintings: Harmony Found in Color and Form
Immerse yourself in the world of Zen with our captivating collection of "Zen Paintings - Silence in Color." Explore a stunning array of abstract landscapes that evoke a sense of tranquility and inner peace. Each piece masterfully blends minimalist aesthetics with vibrant colors, reflecting the core principles of Zen philosophy. Discover the beauty of simplicity and embark on a meditative journey through these evocative artworks.
Immerse yourself in the world of Zen with our captivating collection of "Zen Paintings - Silence in Color." Explore a stunning array of abstract landscapes that evoke a sense of tranquility and inner peace. Each piece masterfully blends minimalist aesthetics with vibrant colors, reflecting the core principles of Zen philosophy. Discover the beauty of simplicity and embark on a meditative journey through these evocative artworks.
Abstract Surrealism • 35 artworks
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Abstract Surrealism: Where Dreamscapes Meet Reality
Unleash your imagination and explore the captivating[...]
Abstract Surrealism: Where Dreamscapes Meet Reality
Unleash your imagination and explore the captivating world of "Abstract Surrealism." This collection features a stunning array of artworks that blend abstract forms with dreamlike imagery. Explore unexpected juxtapositions, thought-provoking symbolism, and evocative compositions that challenge your perception of reality. Discover a new dimension of art where the subconscious takes center stage.
Unleash your imagination and explore the captivating world of "Abstract Surrealism." This collection features a stunning array of artworks that blend abstract forms with dreamlike imagery. Explore unexpected juxtapositions, thought-provoking symbolism, and evocative compositions that challenge your perception of reality. Discover a new dimension of art where the subconscious takes center stage.
Gestural and Informal Painting • 27 artworks
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Explore the vibrant world of Gestural and Informal Painting by Friedrich Zettl. This gallery showcases[...]
Explore the vibrant world of Gestural and Informal Painting by Friedrich Zettl. This gallery showcases expressive artworks characterized by energetic brushstrokes that capture the spontaneity and movement of the artist's hand. Influenced by both Western and Asian artistic traditions, these paintings delve into the essence of form and emotion. Created with mixed media on various surfaces, each piece invites you to experience the raw energy and abstract beauty unique to Zettl's artistic vision.
Calligraphy and Asemic Painting • 17 artworks
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Discover the captivating art of Calligraphy and Asemic Painting by Friedrich Zettl. This gallery features[...]
Discover the captivating art of Calligraphy and Asemic Painting by Friedrich Zettl. This gallery features works inspired by traditional Chinese calligraphy and the abstract beauty of asemic writing. Each piece explores the intricate balance between form and meaning, using non-linguistic symbols derived from Chinese characters. Created with ink on various types of paper, Zettl's artworks blend the precision of calligraphy with the freedom of abstract expression, offering a unique visual and contemplative experience.
Studies - Sketches- Smalls • 17 artworks
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Explore the intimate and dynamic world of Friedrich Zettl's "Studies, Sketches, Smalls." This gallery[...]
Explore the intimate and dynamic world of Friedrich Zettl's "Studies, Sketches, Smalls." This gallery showcases smaller works, including studies for larger series, original sketches, and compact pieces. Though modest in size, each artwork is rich in detail and insight, offering a glimpse into the artist's creative process. Unframed and accessible, these pieces embody the spontaneity and raw beauty of Zettl's artistic journey, making them a valuable addition to any collection.
Digital Artwork • 8 artworks
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Discover the innovative realm of Friedrich Zettl's "Digital Artwork." This gallery features a captivating[...]
Discover the innovative realm of Friedrich Zettl's "Digital Artwork." This gallery features a captivating collection of digital pieces where technology meets traditional art forms. Blending contemporary digital techniques with elements of classical and modern art, each work showcases Zettl's ability to push creative boundaries.
Explore a diverse range of themes and styles, all rendered with precision and a unique artistic vision. Ideal for modern art enthusiasts, these digital artworks offer a fresh perspective on the fusion of art and technology.
Explore a diverse range of themes and styles, all rendered with precision and a unique artistic vision. Ideal for modern art enthusiasts, these digital artworks offer a fresh perspective on the fusion of art and technology.
Recognition
Award Winning
The artist has won prizes and awards
The artist has won prizes and awards
Published in the media
The artist has been published in the media, radio or TV press
The artist has been published in the media, radio or TV press
Editor's Pick
The artist's works have been noticed by the editorial staff
The artist's works have been noticed by the editorial staff
Presented in Art Fairs
The artist participates in art shows and fairs
The artist participates in art shows and fairs
Professional Artist
Exercises the profession of artist as a main activity
Exercises the profession of artist as a main activity
Biography
Friedrich Zettl is an Austrian artist who specializes in painting, graphic art, and calligraphy. He began his artistic career with Western painting, mostly oils.
He pursued his interest in Chinese culture and art by studying Sinology and conducting research at the Academy in Beijing (CAFA). During this period, he shifted his focus to Chinese painting and wrote his dissertation on an aspect of this art form.
Zettl was the first European to have the opportunity to study at the Central Art Academy in Beijing after the Cultural Revolution. He explored Chinese painting further and completed his dissertation on it. Zettl had previously shown his works in Western style, especially expressionist oil paintings, in Europe. However, after learning about traditional Chinese painting in theory and practice, he changed his perspective and integrated Asian thinking into his work. His brushwork and composition are influenced by the technique and philosophy of Chinese calligraphy. He also has a close affinity with Daoism and Zen Buddhism, which are reflected in his work.
Zettl works mainly on paper and uses fine inks and ink. He has developed his own techniques that combine Western media and Asian concepts in novel ways. His influences include Arnulf Rainer, Huang Binhong, Oskar Kokoschka, and Max Ernst. Zettl has exhibited his works in numerous solo and group exhibitions in Europe and Asia.
He has also published or illustrated several books on Chinese art published by oe.g.c.f and Bacopa Verlag. Friedrich Zettl is a member of the Austrian-Chinese Friendship Association (ÖGCF), which organizes various events and exhibitions about China in Austria. He has given several lectures and presentations about Chinese art, especially Chinese painting and seal cutting, at the ÖGCF and the Confucius Institute of the University of Vienna.
He lives and works in Vienna. Friedrich Zettl is a versatile and innovative artist who builds a bridge between the Western and Eastern worlds. He is always looking for new inspirations and challenges.
- Nationality: AUSTRIA
- Date of birth : 1954
- Artistic domains: Works by artists with a certified artist value, Works by professional artists,
- Groups: Certified Artists Professional Artist Contemporary Austrian Artists
Influences
Education
1978 - 1985
Central Academy of Fine Arts
Beijing,
Beijing,
China
Artist value certified
Certification established in collaboration with Akoun, the world leader in art market information since 1985.
Artist Value Painting 2023 | €1,100.00 ($1,227.93)
Certification has been established by Jacques-Armand Akoun on Oct 30, 2023.
Achievements
Collective Expositions
2022
Group Exhibition At Hong Art Museum Of Contemporary Art
Chongqing,
Sechuan,
China
1995
Kunstraum Lilo Berka - Georges Holper
Wien,
Wien,
Austria
1983
Central Academy Beijing, China
Peking,
Beihing,
China
1980
Ergo - Nachtatlellier
Wien,
Wien,
Austria
1976
Bona Mente
Wien,
Wien,
Austria
Publications & Press
Solo Expositions
1992
Verbandsgemeinde Birkenfeld
Birkenfeld,
Birkenfeld,
Germany
1992
Verbandsgemeine Herrstein
Herrstein,
Herrstein,
Germany
1990
Friedrich Zettl À Bruxelles
Brussels,
Brussels,
Belgium
1989
Kulisse, Wien
Wien,
Wien,
Austria
1988
Presshaus Wien
Wien,
Wien,
Austria
1987
Bawag Wien
Wien,
Wien,
Austria
1984
Uno Headquaters Peking
Beijing,
Beijing,
China
1983
Peking Central Academy Of Fine Arts (Now Cafa)
Beijing,
Beijing,
China
1982
Cafe Zentral
Wien,
Wien,
Austria
1981
Ergo Nachtatelier
Wien,
Wien,
Austria
Activity on Artmajeur
Last modification date : Sep 23, 2024
(Member since 2022)
Image views: 60,845
Artworks by Friedrich Zettl added to favorite collections: 206
Latest News
All the latest news from contemporary artist Friedrich Zettl
Added May 28, 2023
Feature on Chinese television and the Austrian broadcaster okto.tv. Aired on 05/27/2023 (in German)
Added May 27, 2024
Recent exhibitions in London and Sao Paolo
Recent exhibitions
After participating in exhibitions in London (Boomer Gallery) at the beginning of May 2024 and Sao Paolo (Imaginarium Exhibition) 25 May - 08 June 2024, another gallery shows 7 works by me, metaspace gallery. This is an online exhibition called “Silence”.
Boomer Gallery, 150 Tooley Street, SE1 2TUMay 10th – 15th Exhibition title: “The Dark Side”.
Artly Mix - Rua Pelotas - Vila Mariana, São Paulo - State of São Paulo, Brazil05/25 – 06/18 Exhibition title: Imaginarium Exhibition https://www.artlymix.com
Metaspacegallery https://metaspacegallery.com
Started May 25th 2024 ongoing. Exhibition title: Silence
All three galleries did a great job.
Added May 11, 2024
Imaginarium Exhibition
Artly Mix - Rua Pelotas - Vila Mariana, São Paulo - State of São Paulo, Brazil
Saturday
25
May
2024
Saturday
8
June
2024
Group Exhibition
25 May - 08 June 2024
Thu - Sat: 1 - 7pm
OPENING:
Sat 25 May 2024 - 4pm
Artly Mix - Cultural Space
Rua Pelotas 398, Vila Mariana
SAO PAULO - BRAZIL
Added May 7, 2024
Exhibition 'The Dark Side' in London
Boomer Gallery, Tooley Street, London, UK
Friday
10
May
2024
Wednesday
15
May
2024
As part of the thematic exhibition “The Dark Side” at the Boomer Gallery, London, 2 of my works will be exhibited.
Added Mar 12, 2024
Zen Calligraphy with Video
A new work has been added: Zen In Calligraphy. Zen in Calligraphy is part of a series that I call painted calligraphy. This art form, which I developed, is about writing Chinese texts, mostly poems, over and over again until a structure and then gradually visions emerge. These are the result of carefully written calligraphy, confident brush, and ink techniques, in which gray tones play a special role.
It was written with self-grinded Chinese ink, which allows for fine gray tones. This creates an additional level where the lightest gray to the deepest black meet.
When doing this calligraphy, an attempt was made to remain contemplative and not to strive for anything conceptual. The textures came naturally. The short video shows how Zen in Calligraphy was created. After each level, a detail of the final stage is shown.
youtube-video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yw16qu6aWcA
Added Feb 16, 2024
Bacopa Publishing House presents a video with my paintings of the underwater world. It is a compilation of works on a topic that I have particularly devoted myself to over the last 3 years.
Added Feb 16, 2024
video with my underwater paintings
I am happy to announce that Bacopa Publishing has presented a video with pictures of me showing my paintings of the underwater world. It is a compilation of works on a topic that I have particularly devoted myself to over the last 3 years. I approached various aspects of the sea and diving in an abstract and semi-abstract manner.
Most of the works are influenced by Asian philosophy.
It is recommended to watch the video on a PC.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTLPQKPnMS4
Added Jan 31, 2024
Black Zen – Painted Calligraphy
Black Zen. Today, I would like to present a work that is part of a series called “painted calligraphy”.
These contemporary works are inspired by traditional Chinese calligraphy and are philosophically influenced by the ideas of Zen Buddhism and Daoism.
In these works, old texts, mostly poems, are written over one another again and again in different ways to create a texture with artistic appeal or a poetic touch. Each character is written with the greatest care, and the rhythm is maintained to ensure the highest quality. Although the finished product may appear monotonous at first glance, it reveals secrets and invites you to meditate. Through disciplined precision when writing each individual character, an overall picture is created that is characterized by harmony, even if the work could initially be perceived as chaotic.
The Daoist aspect primarily involves playing with the opposites yin and yang. This achieves a result in which silence and noise are present at the same time as dynamism and calm, big and small or chaos and order.
Music plays an important role in the creation of these works. In this specific case, the work was performed to music by Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina.
This short video shows how the work was created [youtube-video]
Added Nov 17, 2023
About Zen Moments
Among the categories of Friedrich Zettl’s works shown here on artmajeur, Zen Moments are of particular importance.
Zen is a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment and being mindful of one’s surroundings. It originated in China and later spread to Japan, where it had a profound impact on many aspects of Japanese culture. Zen is often associated with meditation and mindfulness practices, which help individuals achieve a state of inner peace and tranquility.
Zen in Painting
Zen has had a significant impact on the art of painting in Japan. Zen painting is characterized by its simplicity, minimalism, and focus on the present moment. Zen painting is often created using a brush and ink, and it is designed to capture the essence of the subject matter rather than its physical appearance. Zen painting is often used to depict natural landscapes, animals, and other elements of the natural world.
Several different painting styles are associated with Zen. Some of the most common styles include:
Sumi-e: This style of painting is characterized by its use of black ink and minimalism. Sumi-e paintings often depict natural landscapes, animals, and other elements of the natural world.
Zenga: This style of painting is often created by Zen monks and is characterized by its simplicity and minimalism. Zenga paintings often depict calligraphy and other abstract images.
Nanga: This style of painting is characterized by its use of bright colors and its focus on the natural world. Nanga paintings often depict landscapes, animals, and other elements of nature.
Zettl, who studied traditional painting at the Academy in Beijing, takes up the topic again and again and also combines it with ideas and elements of Western art.
Added Oct 29, 2023
Hell O Wien - Halloween Short 2023
On the eve of Halloween 2023 I put together a short. It seems a bit dystopian, but that may have something to do with the globally tense times.
All portraits shown are based on 2 original works from the mid-1980s. They were recreated with graphic programs, one of which is AI-supported, and do justice to their new task of addressing Halloween.
Just as the living and the dead meet on Halloween evening, the graphics also show very realistic, lively elements and at the same time the destructive, ending thing - death.
Of course, it's fun that shouldn't be taken more seriously than Halloween itself.
Added Sep 29, 2023
Hello and Welcome!
Hello
In my first blog post on artmajeur, I would like to extend a warm welcome to you! In the following, I will briefly summarize what you can expect on this blog and what my artistic journey is. For about 3 years, I have been showcasing my work online and writing about it regularly. So far, mainly on my blog: zettl.blog. There are also series that focus on topics related to Asian painting and philosophy, especially Chinese. I would like to do something similar here: shed light on the background of Asian painting, from the philosophy on which Asian art is based to technical aspects of painting. This should help you better understand the works that I offer on artmajeur. In my “Videos” section, there is also material available.
A brief overview of my career: I started painting in the late 1970s. Initially, I was influenced by the surrealists, later by the expressionists. When I began studying sinology (alongside ethnology and art history) in 1976, I already hoped to be able to study at the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing. After initial difficulties, I was able to study at this most important academy in the Asian region in 1979, as the first European since the Cultural Revolution. In addition to painting and calligraphy, I also devoted myself intensively to the art of seal carving and wrote my dissertation on an aspect of Chinese art that is mostly translated as freehand painting.
This kind of painting was essentially influenced by Daoist thoughts and can certainly be understood as applied philosophy.
We all know the term yin-yang, yet most people are not aware of how profound and far-reaching this idea shapes Chinese art.
Over time, I will delve into various aspects in more detail and occasionally attempt to shed light on one of my works from this perspective.
I am well aware that terms like “Zen” and “Tao” are used very loosely and often deviate far from their original meaning.
Therefore, it is even more important to me to convey the traditional view, which has hardly changed for more than 1000 years, and thus provide my readers with material for reflection. Whenever you have a question about it, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Enjoy and warm regards, Friedrich
Added Sep 27, 2023
TV Portrait about Friedrich Zettl
Saturday
27
May
2023
Tuesday
27
May
2025
Okto.tv, in collaboration with China Radio International, filmed a portrait of the painter Friedrich Zettl, which was broadcast on May 27, 2023 in Austria and shortly afterwards in China.
Added Sep 25, 2023
Zen paintings by Friedrich Zettl presented in virtual interior. Text in English.
Added Nov 5, 2022
Dao and Zen
Added Jul 2, 2022
portrait paintings from the early years
Added Jul 2, 2022
gestural painting
Added Jun 17, 2022
down by the sea. recent artwork by friedrich zettl
Added Jun 8, 2022
article about friedrich zettl in chinese newspaper
https://epaper.gmw.cn/gmrb/html/2021-02/08/nw.D110000gmrb_20210208_4-01.htm
Monday
8
February
2021
Tuesday
8
June
2021
Long article about Friedrich Zettl in important chinese newspaper. Online version:
https://epaper.gmw.cn/gmrb/html/2021-02/08/nw.D110000gmrb_20210208_4-01.htm
Added Jun 8, 2022
exhibition in Chongqing, Sechuan province
https://www.chongqing-artmuseum.com/
Tuesday
5
July
2022
Monday
5
September
2022
We are pleased to announce the new exhibition date:
Hong Art Museum in Chongqing, Sechuan Province
Vernissage: 05.07.2022 – 15.00 Uhr
Duration: 05.07. - 05.09. 2022
Address: 1 Linjiang Rd, 解放碑商圈 Yuzhong District, Chongqing, China, 400011
Added Apr 25, 2022
recent works by friedrich zettl
Reviews and comments
refined and original artist, excellent technique, top
Thank you so much, Irvin Grassi!
Merci pour l'ajout de "Abstrait 1224 et de Paysage 06-24" à votre collection. Claude
Thank you Friedrich for adding more my artworks artworks to your excellent collection !!!
With Best Regards from Odesa,
Alex Henk
Thank you Friedrich for adding more my artworks artworks to your excellent collection !!!
With Best Regards from Odesa,
Alex Henk
You are welcome, Alex! All the best! Friedrich
Merci pour l'ajout de ''Paysage 0624'' à votre collection. Claude
Merci pour l'ajout de mes tableaux à votre collection. Claude
De rien, Claude ! Tous mes vœux!
Thank you so much, Alex, for your kind words!
Thank you Friedrich for adding my simple artwork to your excellent collection !!!
I like your pieces and approaches. We have something common... Maybe one day we'll create a joint artwork (or even artworks). Who knows? Our life is full of surprises.
With Best Regards,
Alex Henk
You are more than welcome, Alex! All the best!
Bent
•
Je suis sincèrement ravi de faire parti de votre collection!! 1000 fois merci!
I am sincerely delighted to be part of your collection!! 1000 times thank you!
You are more than welcome, Bent! You have great paintings! All the best!
Thank you very much, Alex Henk, you are very kind ☀️🙏
Bravo !!! My congratulations !!!
With Best Regards,
Alex Henk