We Are California Artists: Wanxin Zhang and Diane Ding

In conjunction with the ICA San José's 2026 Fall Benefit and Art Auction, and in tribute to Wanxin Zhang and Diane Ding, the ICA is pleased to present a selection of Zhang's sculptures alongside Ding's works that reflect their shared life and studio practice in California for over three decades. Zhang's sculptures bring together humor, material presence, social observation, and contemporary cultural commentary. Through an expansive practice rooted in ceramics and sculpture, Zhang has become one of the leading figures of the new generation of the California Clay Movement, recognized for his enduring contribution to the evolution of contemporary ceramic art. Diane Ding's Daily _Ink Journal_ series captures fleeting emotions and subtle psychological shifts found in everyday life, transforming intimate observations into profound artistic gestures. These seemingly small yet deeply meaningful works reveal the complexity and richness of human experience. Together, Zhang and Ding's distinct artistic voices and studio practices are intertwined through shared experiences of migration, family, craft, and daily life. Their collaborative journey reflects a lasting dedication to artistic exploration and a significant contribution to California's diverse and evolving contemporary art landscape.