Z.S. Liang is widely known for his epic scenes with dozens of figures, high-drama action and strong storytelling about Native Americans in the West. But he’s also just as widely known for his peaceful portraits, which will take a starring role in a new show opening September 7 at Trailside Galleries in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Bighorn Sheep Hunter, oil on canvas, 30 x 36"
New works in the show include Bighorn Sheep Hunter, which shows a man waiting on a ridge—waiting for the sunrise, a fellow hunter, his prey or maybe something more spiritual. “In general, the morning sky is clear and cool, while the evening sky is more orange and yellow. For me the key of the whole painting was the sunlight hitting the top of the mountain in the background. Those are the Rocky Mountains,” the California painter says. “I really wanted to focus on how this is an experienced hunter. He’s staring at the horizon, he could be thinking about anything. I put a hole in his coat so it wouldn’t look so new, and even his pants are a little old. He rests next to a tree that has grown without soil in the cracks of the rock.”
Thunderbird Spirits, oil on canvas, 48 x 28"
Young Nez Perce Brave, oil on canvas, 12 x 16"
In Thunderbird Spirits, Liang paints a standing portrait of a Blackfeet man who looks right back at the viewer. Behind him is a golden eagle flying amid the golden haze of a simplified background. “For this one, I wanted to bring 2-D into a 3-D approach, and make them work together. The bird represents the golden eagle spirit. The Blackfeet called the golden eagle the thunderbird,” the artist says. “The thunderbird repeats again on his shield, and he wears the most magnificent bear-claw necklace that is very powerful and quite awesome. The person who would wear something like that is the person who would defeat the bear. This man is a fierce warrior, which is also why I painted a scar on his forehead, to show his experiences.”
On the Backbone of the World, oil on canvas, 36 x 22"
Other works in Liang’s new show include Whirlwind Bonnet, which shows a figure holding an old cavalry sword, and On the Backbone of the World, a portrait showing a male figure in beautifully designed coat.
Liang’s show continues through September 19.
Upcoming Show
Up to 6 works
September 7-19, 2020
Trailside Galleries
130 E. Broadway
Jackson Hole, WY 83001
(307) 733-3186
www.trailsidegalleries.com
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