Artist Yifan Zhang creates awe-inspiring paintings that draw from the values of classic art. But for all the details of his subjects, that’s not the only thing that makes his artworks so impressive. His paintings stand out for his precise inclusion of striking gold streaks, as if signaling that even the most beautiful works can always be taken to the next level with a little sparkle.

Zhang places a layer of gold paint on his canvases, which he then strategically covers with tape. From there, he paints stunning images of classic statue-like characters or religious iconography. The artist does not skimp on details; however, rather than aim for a hyperrealistic approach, he evokes the exact aesthetic of each source, from the heavy shadows cast by marble sculptures to the porcelain look of Catholic symbols.

But the true magic of Zhang’s art takes place once he’s done painting. For the finishing touch, the artist carefully rips off the tape, revealing the gold paint underneath. Thanks to his exact, nearly geometric placement, the composition is given a divine twist, as gold streaks emerge from behind the subjects or illuminate them from above, filling them with purpose.

As if his finished pieces weren’t spectacular enough on their own, Zhang has cleverly turned that final step into a spectacle. Sometimes, he lifts all the tape in one sweeping move, unveiling a completely different composition from the one shown at the beginning of his videos. When he’s feeling more daring, Zhang sets the tape on fire. After burning for a few seconds, momentarily bringing the characters to life, the glimmer finally sets into the picture.

To stay up to date with Zhang’s gold streak paintings, follow him on Instagram.

Artist Yifan Zhang creates awe-inspiring paintings that stand out for their gold streaks.

Zhang covers his canvases with a layer of gold paint, which he then strategically covers with tape.

From there, he paints detailed images of dynamic interactions between classic statue-like characters or religious iconography.

Rather than aim for a hyperrealistic approach, he evokes the exact aesthetic of each source, from the heavy shadows cast by marble sculptures to the porcelain look of Catholic symbols.

For the finishing touch, the artist carefully rips off the tape, revealing the gold paint underneath.

Thanks to his exact, nearly geometrical placing, the composition is given a divine twist.

As if his pieces weren’t spectacular in their own right, Zhang has cleverly turned that final step into a spectacle.

Yifan Zhang: Website | Instagram | TikTok

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