Zack Zdrale takes a traditional, academic approach to his work, as much of his training was focused on the study of 16th and 17th century masters. His work describes the human condition as he perceives it, as well as one's relationship to self. Although classically rendered, the compositions and subject matter place his work in the present.

Zdrale is originally from Wisconsin. He attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, earning a Bachelor of Science-Art degree in 1999. Upon graduation he continued to study life drawing with Robert l. Schultz. He also worked in the screen-printing industry, designing and printing apparel and posters for bands. Next, he studied life drawing at the Pacific Northwest College of Art.

His training culminated in a Master's degree in figurative painting from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. He graduated with honors and now teaches in both the Graduate and Undergraduate departments.

Years ago, the San Francisco Art Dealers Association began the Introductions program as a way to introduce new talents during the early summer. John Pence has chosen Zdrale as our Introductions Artist 2008. This one man exhibition opens with a reception on Thursday, June 26th, from 6:00-8:00 pm and runs through July 26th.