We recently connected with Iris Zhang and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Iris, thank you so much for joining us today. There are so many topics we could discuss, but perhaps one of the most relevant is empathy because it’s at the core of great leadership and so we’d love to hear about how you developed your empathy?
The development of my empathy was fostered by a deliberate journey of introspection and exploration, drawing inspiration from the socially conscious music of the ’70s and ’80s. Reflecting on my personal experiences, I found solace and inspiration in the music of artists who used their platforms to advocate for social justice and human rights. Through their lyrics and activism, these musicians demonstrated a profound care for society and humanity, addressing pressing issues such as civil rights, environmental degradation, and political injustice. Immersing myself in their music provided a nostalgic connection and a poignant reminder of the power of art to provoke change and inspire empathy. Through actively engaging with their messages and exploring the historical context of their work, I deepened my understanding of societal challenges. Meanwhile, I watch films and read niche documentary articles to expand my capacity for empathy toward marginalized communities and individuals.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Established in 2013, Fou Gallery has tried to redefine the art landscape as a departure from conventional commercial galleries, championing artists within the Asian diaspora under the leadership trio of Founder and Director Echo He, Artist Director Lynn Hai, and myself. Our journey reached a significant milestone last December with the “Take a Break” exhibition, celebrating our remarkable 10th anniversary. Featuring the works of 12 artists who have been instrumental in shaping our trajectory, the exhibition provided a retrospective glimpse into our evolution and the diverse talents within our community.
The “Take a Break” exhibition was an opportunity to honor our past and innovate and explore new realms of artistic expression. I organized three special events—Cyanotype Workshop: Emotion Scroll, Contact Improvisation Jam: Inner Voice, and Tea Alchemy: an Experimental Tea Ceremony—each offering immersive experiences that delved into the depths of humanity and spirituality. These events were designed to engage our audience profoundly, fostering connections and conversations that transcended traditional art appreciation.
As we embark on our next chapter, Fou Gallery is excited to unveil “Falling Petals, Standing Roses,” an exhibition featuring the captivating work of Iranian artist Saba Farhoudnia. This exhibition, accompanied by a series of special events celebrating Iranian art and culture, represents our ongoing commitment to showcasing diverse voices and perspectives. Building on the success of past events such as “Iranian Movie Night” and the kamāncheh showcase during Helia Chitsazan’s exhibition, we are eager to continue fostering cultural exchange and dialogue within our community.
Looking ahead, Fou Gallery is poised to embark on new initiatives and expand our reach within the art world. From forging partnerships with other cultural institutions to increasing accessibility and diversity in the arts, we are committed to pushing boundaries and challenging norms. Our mission remains steadfast—to provide a platform for underrepresented artists and to create meaningful experiences that resonate with audiences of all backgrounds.
Reflecting on our journey thus far, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the vibrant cultural tapestry of New York City through Fou Gallery. Our work is not just about showcasing art; it’s about sparking conversations, forging connections, and fostering understanding. As we continue to evolve and grow, I am excited to see how Fou Gallery will continue to shape the future of the arts community.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
In my journey, I’ve come to cherish curiosity, diligence, and adaptability as crucial qualities. My passion for music immersed me in various artistic endeavors in my twenties, forging connections with independent musicians in China despite our diverse backgrounds. This curiosity fueled my active involvement in the music scene, organizing live performances and witnessing the unwavering commitment to free expression among artists.
Simultaneously, my love for fashion prompted me to establish a design studio in China, drawing inspiration from vintage styles and historical moments. Despite lacking formal training, I pursued courses and even contributed to costume design for the independent film End of Summer, which showcased southern Chinese fashion of the 1990s. These experiences honed my creativity and instilled a strong sense of adaptability and resilience, essential qualities in any professional industry.
Upon joining Fou Gallery four years ago, my diverse experiences lent me a unique perspective in managing special events and honing valuable event execution skills. For example, I collaborated with Fou Gallery and musician Che Chen, inviting him to perform a dynamic solo improvisation that seamlessly blended percussion, flutes, and electronics. This event showcased Che Chen’s talent and highlighted the fusion of art forms, creating an immersive experience for our audience. Furthermore, I’ve successfully organized events featuring emerging artists and exploring innovative concepts, contributing to the gallery’s reputation for hosting thought-provoking and engaging exhibitions.
My vision for special events at Fou Gallery is to continue pushing boundaries and fostering collaborations that challenge conventional notions of art. I aim to leverage my background in music and fashion to curate events that showcase diverse artistic expressions and spark meaningful dialogue and connections within the community. Despite the challenges inherent in event management, I’m confident that my passion for the arts and my proven track record of success will guide me in overcoming any obstacles that may arise.
How would you describe your ideal client?
An ideal audience for the Fou Gallery would possess a deep appreciation for diverse artistic expressions and a keen interest in exploring underrepresented narratives within the Asian diaspora. They would be passionate about supporting emerging artists and cultural initiatives that challenge conventional norms and foster dialogue. Ideal audiences would actively seek opportunities to engage with the gallery’s exhibitions, events, and programs, demonstrating a commitment to promoting inclusivity and cultural exchange. Additionally, they would value the gallery’s mission of creating meaningful connections and promoting understanding through the power of art.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.fougallery.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fougallery/
- Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/琦-张-624636205
Image Credits
Photography credits go to Lynn Hai, Echo He, Yihan Yang, Xi Zhou & Weihan Zhou, and Ashley Wang.
