GRAND RAPIDS, MICH.- Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is featuring the work of Chinese artist, Zhang Huan in the summer exhibition, “Looking East, Facing West: The World of Zhang Huan,” which opened to the public May 24. This retrospective features the profound yet diverse work of Huan and will remain on display until August 25.

Seen as one of the most prodigious and insightful artists today, Huan’s compositions as a sculptor, painter, photographer and installation artist encompass themes of Chinese history and spiritual tranquility. His work has helped to bring Chinese art to the forefront of the international art world.

“Zhang Huan is among the most important voices in Contemporary art today,” said Joseph Becherer, vice president and chief curator. “From his vantage point working in China and the United States, he offers insight and inspiration for the global cultural community."

“Looking East, Facing West: The World of Zhang Huan” explores the work of the artist both thematically and artistically. Works of sculpture are central to the exhibition and are inspired by historical models and antique fragments of Buddha-related imagery. Several photographic installations document Huan’s performance pieces, some of which have helped to establish his reputation in the United States. Touching on the importance of Buddhism in his life, the artist’s revolutionary ash paintings are composed of discarded incense ash from temple sites in and around Shanghai.

“Meijer Gardens is thrilled to present an exhibition so distinctly composed of such diverse media- the first of its kind in the American Midwest - that focuses merited attention on the master,” said Becherer.

Huan’s steel and copper sculpture, Long Island Buddha is not only a featured piece in “Looking East, Facing West: The World of Zhang Huan,” but it’s recently been acquired by Meijer Gardens.