Zhang Hongfei (1950) is a native of Yitong, Jilin Province. After his graduation from middle school, he was 'sent to the countryside' to settle with the peasants. Later, he was able to transfer to a job with a district cultural center. He joined the People's Liberation Army in 1971, where he took part in the design of propaganda art. In 1977, he graduated from the Lu Xun Art Academy, and in 1981, he transferred to the Jilin Provincial Creative Office to work as an artist. He became vice-head of the Creative Department of the Jilin Provincial Painting Institute.

Zhang is known for his colorful portraits in the 工笔 gongbi ('meticulous')-style.