In today’s episode, Kevin Kirkwood brings listeners to the Bayview neighborhood of San Francisco, recording inside the studio of contemporary artist Wanxin Zhang. Widely regarded as a leading voice in the new generation of the Bay Area clay movement, Wanxin is celebrated for his monumental ceramic figures, his experimental formless structures, and his striking bronze works. His sculptures explore themes of globalization, politics, and cultural identity, often infused with unexpected elements of contemporary pop culture.
Surrounded by these commanding works and the energy of his studio practice, Kevin and Wanxin sit down for an in-depth conversation about Wanxin’s journey from China to California, the evolution of his distinctive sculptural language, and the cultural forces that continue to shape his approach to making art.
WANXIN ZHANG
wanxinzhang.com
@wxzhang25
CATHARINE CLARK GALLERY
@cclarkgallery | @clarkcatharine | @exitatccg | @boxbluratccg
Produced by KEVIN KIRKWOOD
kevin-kirkwood.com | @kevinwillpaint | @strandpodcast
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This episode was recorded on September 24, 2025 in San Francisco.
