Yi Zhong, Bay Area Artist
Talent is everywhere and I am so excited to share our very own Garde Manger who has an incredible eye for texture, beauty expression through his pieces. Yi explores the world through his creative expression. He is a kind, hardworking person and we are so lucky to have him as a part of our team. If you want to meet him in person, you can sign up for our Monday community night on August 22. You can see our upcoming events here. - Jennifer
About Yi
Born in China and having lived in Maryland and Southern California, I finally set down some roots here in the Bay Area. Having dabbled in various interests, I always return to artistic expression as a way of communicating with the world. I studied architecture at UC Berkeley and then found my interest in food culture here at Sanctuary Bistro.I became an artist because I have always found myself being more expressive through the tools we have on hand as artists. With so many ways to discuss the same topics, the opportunities were limitless. I fell into artistic expression at a young age and never looked back since.
Inspiration
Berkeley is my inspiration. I look to take in all of my environment and I just find the small things in life to bring out the most joy. From the plum tree hanging over the overgrown bike parking rack to the rustic, wooden bench sitting proudly between tall redwood trees. There is more inspiration than there is time to capture it all. The 49 Views of Berkeley project (The project Yi is currently working on and part of the series hanging on the wall) has been a huge undertaking. I’m definitely in over my head, but also extremely glad that I’ve signed myself up to really get to know the community that I live in. I am falling more in love with the city each and every day, and I have no regrets about that.My investigative and explorative process for art making have actually grown with a heavy similarity to the process of cooking, in which uoufocus on concepts and trains of thought blend into everyday moments and creates tertiary and often exciting fruits of thought.
Art Sparks Conversation
If I can get even one person to appreciate a small of detail in their community that otherwise would have gone by the wayside, I would be content. In a complex and messy world, any sliver of joy should be cherished and shared.
Where can we see more of your work?
My website or Instagram @gottooken or gottooken.com
Compassion, community, the planet, the people, animals, health, and sustainability are what drive Sanctuary Bistro. How would you say these impact your work?
The commitment to the entire community, from lands to animals and the community of our neighbors is a language that I share with Sanctuary Bistro. Having cooked here for over half a year, we all strive to live sustainably and with a commitment to the wellbeing of all that share this environment.
How does one purchase your work?
Please contact me through email at yizhzhzhz@gmail.com. Thank you for taking your time to read this. I sincerely appreciate the connection and hope that my explorations will continue to raise curious questions and inspire interesting thoughts.Do you have a question for Yi? Ask it in the comments below.