Born in Beijing, China, Yang Fudong studied oil painting at the China Academy of Art in Hangzhou during the early 1990s. He transitioned into film and video production shortly thereafter, emerging as a key figure in the Chinese contemporary art scene by the turn of the millennium.

His practice is defined by the use of 35mm film to create atmospheric, non-linear narratives that often feature young protagonists navigating existential questions. His work frequently utilizes black-and-white cinematography to evoke a sense of timelessness, blending historical references with contemporary social commentary through multi-channel video installations and photography.

Yang continues to be a significant presence in the international art circuit, with his work featured in major global exhibitions and museum collections. His contributions to the medium of film-based installation remain a focal point for curators and scholars examining the evolution of contemporary Asian art.