For more than 20 years, Brandon artist Weiming Zhao has painted notable landmarks, buildings and figures. His work spans the city and the world.
Zhao first developed an interest in art as a teenager. He returned to the hobby later in life as a way to escape stress.
“I did a few pencil sketches around downtown and thought, ‘Well, I kind of like this. Why not keep doing it every day and make a commitment to it?’ I just couldn’t stop. By the end of the following year, I had a collection of almost 500 pencil sketches.”
His interest in sketching eventually led Zhao to explore watercolour painting.
“Each day after school or work, I would try three different mediums, finding new areas to paint.”
Over time, Zhao began to see art as more than a hobby. He started using it to preserve memories and document the city’s history.
“Over the years, it has almost become an obligation. When I hear that a landmark is going to be torn down, I feel a sense of urgency to get there and paint it before it’s gone, so I can preserve a record of it.”
Zhao believes paintings can capture human emotions that photographs may not convey.
“A photograph is very objective. It mechanically records what’s there, but it doesn’t necessarily capture human emotion. Painting, especially on-site, involves subjective interpretation. It’s not about capturing every technical detail, but rather conveying something deeper, such as a sense of loss or history. It reflects the perspective and emotions of the person creating it.”
Zhao has completed more than 8,000 paintings throughout his career. He says his work has evolved alongside his ability to recognize the history of a place.
“I have a keener eye now and can really feel and sense the history of an area.”
His work has also gained recognition from various organizations. More than 20 of his paintings have been collected by government agencies and the Manitoba Arts Council. Some are displayed in government buildings, courthouses, colleges and businesses.
Having his work displayed in prominent places gives Zhao a sense that he is leaving behind a lasting legacy.
Looking ahead, he hopes to create more paintings in Europe. He also hopes to see the next generation of artists continue to grow in Brandon.
