Virgin Process
Sculpting intuitively is a challenge—it is a process of unearthing inspiration. This transformative act serves as a dialogue between the artist and the world, as well as a conversation with the inner self.

<Virgin of the Rock>

Sleeping Process

<Sleeping>


Hi, I'm Joe Xu

I started studying painting and sculpture in high school. Soon I had the opportunity to create sculptures for stage sets. Of course, foam was used at that time. Although I majored in sculpture as an undergraduate, my career is still in animation film creation. My 3D computer short films have won many awards. I really started stone carving in 2017. My friend brought me a stone and gave it to me. I am so grateful. I am obsessed with stone carvings now.

Most of my work draws inspiration from the two-dimensional paintings of the European Renaissance—specifically the works of Michelangelo, utilizing his church frescoes as a blueprint. I believe that had Michelangelo lived longer, he would have brought even more of his own creative visions to life. To now be able to engage with this unfinished work—to have the opportunity to experience it firsthand—constitutes, for me, a happiness beyond compare.

Romeo and Juliet

Shanghai Theater Academy《Romeo and Juliet》

Tosca

Shanghai Opera Academy《Tosca》

Stage Scene 1
Stage Scene 2

Artist Biography & CV

"For me, marble as a medium is a silent history. After millennia of weathering, its warm, cold, hard texture is proof of time itself congealed. My mission is to awaken the temperature of life within it."
Education
1986 - 1990

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Sculpture

Shanghai University, Art College, Sculpture Department

1980 - 1983

High School Animation Training

Foundational animation production techniques and traditional art

Sculpture Practice
2017 - Present

Studio Practice - Las Vegas, NV

Focusing on classic marble carving. Creating narrative sculptures exploring the intersection of divinity and humanity, temporal flow, and historical dialogue.

Signature Works: <Sleeping Beauty>, <Her Gaze>

1990

Graduation Sculpture - "Black Hair Flying" (黑髮飄揚)

Awarded the National Art Exhibition Award II and National Sports Art Exhibition Award II in China.

Animation Career (1990 - 2012)
2000

3D Character Designer & Animation Director

Member of the core creative team for the classic animated feature film "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and the Island of Misfit Toys".

Awards & Recognition
2005

Red Stick International Animation Festival (USA)

"The Flying Jar" (飛行的罐子) - Won the Highest Honor Animation Award (Red Stick Award) in the Professional Category.

1988

Shanghai International Animation Film Festival (China)

Awarded international recognition for the animated short film "Peace" (和平).