Afternoon Light, Studio Table
A study of how warm light transforms familiar objects. I wanted to capture the way shadows shift colour when they land on linen.
Claire Zhang
Student artist and Guzheng performer
I am a student at Semiahmoo Secondary School in Surrey, British Columbia. Through painting and Guzheng, I explore observation, patience, and the ways creative work can connect people across generations and communities.
- 🏫 Semiahmoo Secondary School
- 📍 Surrey, BC
- 🎨 Visual Art & Painting
- 🎵 Guzheng — Grade 10
- 🤝 Community Performer
- 🎓 Class of 2027
Visual Art
Featured Work
A selection of recent paintings and drawings exploring light, observation, and quiet attention.
Morning Mist, Boundary Bay
This painting grew from a morning walk. I was interested in how fog simplifies a landscape into just a few tonal layers.
Quiet Reflection
Drawing someone older teaches patience. Every line in a face carries time, and I wanted the charcoal to hold that weight.
Music
Featured Performance
Erta Mektige (Lilac Vine Flower) — High Mountains and Flowing Water
This piece is one of the most well-known works in the Guzheng repertoire. Performing it at a community event felt meaningful because it bridges generations — many in the audience grew up hearing this music, and sharing it helps keep that connection alive.
Community
Sharing Work Beyond the Studio
Alongside independent practice, I have been fortunate to share Guzheng music at community events and to keep learning how performance changes when it is meant for real people in real spaces.
2025
Lunar New Year Cultural Celebration
Surrey Chinese Cultural Association · Solo PerformerPerformed a traditional Guzheng piece for an audience of over 200 community members celebrating the Lunar New Year.
2024
Senior Centre Music Visit
Crescent Gardens Senior Living · Volunteer PerformerShared a short recital of classical Chinese pieces with elderly residents. Several audience members told me the music reminded them of home.
2024
Semiahmoo Arts Night
Semiahmoo Secondary School · Solo PerformerPerformed at the annual school arts showcase alongside visual art, dance, and theatre students.
2023
Multicultural Heritage Festival
City of Surrey · Youth PerformerSelected to represent Chinese musical traditions at the annual heritage festival. Performed two pieces for a diverse outdoor audience.
Art teaches me to slow down and notice what I would otherwise miss. Music teaches me to listen more carefully and to share something with an audience in real time. I value both because they ask for discipline, attention, and responsibility — not only expression.
— Claire ZhangLearn More
Explore my portfolio, download my résumé, or get in touch.