Originally from Taipei, Taiwan, Sean Chao now finds home in Los Angeles. In 2007, Chao graduated from Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA, with a BFA in Illustration. He learned how to create in a variety of mediums, from drawing to painting to sculpture. He found that he liked making art with his hands.
Robot Cat, 2012 © Sean Chao
Chao creates his miniature sculptures with polymer clay, acrylic, basswood, paper, wire, and painstaking precision. He creates a delicate balance in his sculptures by showing enough detail to illicit amazement and yet enough imperfection to reveal that they’re lovingly handmade.
Nature weaves its magic throughout Chao’s artwork, where lush forests teem with vibrant plants, lively animals, and intricate insects. He captures the serene beauty of freshwater scenes and the mysterious life lurking underground, inviting viewers into a world brimming with wonder. Each piece pulsates with movement, allowing a single moment to feel alive and captivating.
As viewers immerse themselves in Chao’s work, it's hard to miss the spark of awe in their eyes as they explore the minute details, culminating in genuine smiles as they step away. His intent to sprinkle a bit of joy into the lives of others clearly resonates, proving that art has the power to transform, even in the smallest of ways.
Giant Robot Biennale 5 - Japanese American National Museum, March 2024
Space in Between group exhibition - GR2 Oct 2023
Short Story Solo Exhibition - GR2 Oct 2018
Drifter Solo Exhibition - GR2 May 2017
Two Together - First Solo Exhibition - GR2 April 2016
Giant Robot Biennale 4 - Japanese American National Museum, November 2015
Close Encounters - Dino Laboratory - Hammer Museum, January 2015
GR Super Awesome Exhibition - Oakland Museum of California, April 2014
Giant Robot Biennale 3 - Japanese American National Museum, September 2012
"Blithe Spirits" Two-artist Exhibition with artist Inés Estrad - GR2, 2011
"Forget Me Not" Two-artist Exhibition with artist Ming Ong - Giant Robot San Francisco, 2011
"The Untold Want" Two-artist Exhibition with artist Jared Andrew Schorr - Gallery Nucleus, 2010