Steve Erickson’s first art class was a painting class taught by a famous female painter from Shenyang, China. For years, art had been a “window” for Steve to learn about Chinese culture.

Welcoming the Short-term Training Course from University of Minnesota in May of 1984

Teacher Wu Yongliang and Min Xuelin Cocreated Good Fortune as One Wishes and Gifted It to Erickson

Tea Party for Teachers and Students

In Ink and Wash Painting Class

Field Sketch Photo Series 1

Field Sketch Photo Series 2

Field Sketch Photo Series 3

In 1984, the teacher told him the University of Minnesota - Duluth put forward the first study plan for Americans to Zhejiang Academy of Fine Arts (now China Academy of Art). In the summer of the same year, Steve came to study in Zhejiang Academy of Fine Arts with the short-term training course. This short period left a deep impression on him.

Teacher Lu Yanshao Presented the Painting of Plum Blossom and Stones as a Gift to Erickson

Teacher Lu Yanshao Giving Lessons in the Short-term Training Course

Dean Xiao Feng Received the Short-term Training Course from Minnesota, America

In 1986, he returned to Hangzhou and has developed profound friendship with the Academy since then. Steve said, “For decades, it’s worthwhile for me to receive visiting Chinese artists at my home in Seattle—a source to build friendships with world-class creative people.”

On the Way to Paint from Life

Welcome Ceremony for Teachers like Zhuo Hejun

Group Photo of Dean Xiao Feng and Teacher Lu Yanshao, etc. with Short-term Training Course