Zhang Yan (1943, Huangxian County, Shandong) graduated from the Chinese Painting Department of the Central Art Academy in 1967. She was sent to work with the Hunan Writers Association, where she was employed in the editorial department of Hunan Literature (湖南文学, Hunan wenxue). She is still active as a designer.

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