Yong Hong Zhong developed a keen interest in drawing at an early age. His passion for drawing lead him to La Guardia High School of Music and Arts in New York City followed by a degree in Illustration and Art History from Pratt Institute. Yong was recruited by Disney Animation Studios shortly after graduation and has worked on featured films since 1995. The knowledge and experience he acquired from the animation industry continue to be an invaluable influence in his art and has refined his skills in story-telling, color and composition. After 14 years with the Walt Disney Company, Yong was ready to take a different direction and focus on his passion for fine art painting. Yong takes inspiration from many different forms of art but none has more influence on him than the early California Impressionists. He currently lives in Portland, Oregon with his wife and two sons.