Image Credit: Rose Zhao at work in her studio

From Rocks to Brushstrokes

A Geologist’s Artistic Transformation 

Rose Zhao 赵寿薇 (Zhào Shòuwēi)
July 31 – October 30, 2025
Great Hall Gallery | 50 Victoria Street, Aurora

Madam Rose Zhao (b. 1937, Rongxian County, China) finds beauty in all corners of the natural world—the rocks and soil of the earth, flowers, plants and animals, her granddaughter's pet chicken, the deer outside her daughter's house… 

Prior to her artistic practice, Madam Zhao served as a hydrogeological and engineering geologist, completing her education at Chengdu Institute of Geological Exploration (now Chengdu University of Technology). She turned to painting during her retirement in 2003, isolated amid the global SARS epidemic. She studied the meticulous style of Gongbi, a traditional Chinese painting style using highly detailed brushwork, rich colours, and elegant, balanced compositions to create life-like renderings of figurative and narrative subjects. 

What began as a personal refuge soon blossomed into a 20-year devotion, with Zhao capturing life through delicate lines and vibrant detail wherever she went. She has since completed over 300 works, creating a global map of lived experience—from Beijing and Leshan to New York, New Jersey, Toronto, and ultimately, Aurora. 

The Aurora Cultural Centre is proud to present a glimpse into Madam Zhao's remarkable body of work through her first-ever solo exhibition: a visual story of her life and creative journey. Printed materials for the exhibition are available in English and Simplified and Traditional Chinese.   

Exhibition Programming

Opening Night | Thursday, July 31, 6:30-8:30pm | Remarks at 7pm 

• Meet the artists of our hallway exhibitions, Streaming (Lower Hall) and From Rocks to Brushstrokes (Great Hall) through a combined opening party. Refreshments are provided, and all are welcome. 

Farmer's Market Pop-up | Saturday, July 19, 11am-1pm  

• Watch the the master, Madam Zhao, at work within the beautiful Aurora Farmer's Market. Find the Aurora Cultural Centre booth and say hello!