Tzen’s lifetime mission to explore identity through experience and finds extra-sensory expression in his artwork. Making art is the process by which he translates into image the facets of identity--its jagged edges, rounded corners, hard underbelly and innate malleability. His collection of photographic works chronicles his research on not just what identity is, but the very definition of identity. Many of his self-portraits, including his recent works are a playful exploration of the role one plays in ascribing that definition.

His work spans over 40 years but the root of his vision remains the same. A master painter, movie producer, and photographer, Tzen embodies his own philosophy on the malleability of one’s ascribed identity. As Edward Evans writes, “no one medium is adequate to communicate his observations.” “Metaphors” is a collection of Tzen’s conceptual photographic works that gives a glimpse into the artist’s evolving theme. His earliest works date to 1973, where he was yet a student studying in Paris. In 1991, he was given a one-man retrospective show at the National Taiwan Museum of Art. His works have been displayed internationally from Paris to New York, and is renown for the level of creativity and originality.

China Previews Gallery is proud to present the first complete photographic show for Tzen. This collection features recent works such as the “Patriots” series, where Tzen’s own face is painted with different wartime flags. His work searches the provocative, the strange, and satirical as he explores his many faces. Please join us for the opening reception Thursday, January 8th, 6-8pm.