Zhou Lingzhao (1919-2023) hailed from Pingjiang, Hunan Province. He first attended the Huazhong Paint School in Changsha and graduated from the Wuchang Art School in 1935. In 1938, he joined the Third Office of the Political Committee of the Guomindang Military Committee headed by Guo Moruo, where he produced anti-Japanese propaganda. In 1940, he joined the Caricature Propaganda Team. After Liberation, in 1949, he joined the Faculty at the Central Art Academy, where he became a professor.

Zhou was known for his drawings, but he also designed oil paintings, which have been included in the collection of the Museum of the Revolution; New Year prints; postage stamps; medals; etc.