David Zheng (b. 1985) was born and raised in the Lower East Side of New York City. Largely self-taught and having worked in various artist studios (including with Renato D'Agostin in 2017-18), his photography explores the dynamics between the environment and its inhabitants. Rather than focusing on narrative or the direct representation of reality, Zheng gravitates towards form and abstraction to suggest these relationships. His practice, which is rooted in analog photographic processes, is driven by a fascination with the materiality of the medium and the delicate balance between chance and control.
Best known for his black and white analogue work and artist books. Several of his books over the years are held in library collections such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York Public Library, and the Center for Book Arts. In 2022, David was awarded the Corky Lee Image of Hope award by the New York State Assembly Member, recognizing the impact on the NYC Lower Manhattan community through the Arts with his works, Where Did All the Flowers Go? and Some Chinatown Portraits.