Figurative Painting - Lidded Jar
Huey Lee
Stoneware
Art Dimensions: 23" x 13" x 8"
Exhibition - Iowa Clay Conference | River 2 River
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Artist Statement
My artistic practice is deeply rooted in my cultural background, religious influences, and nostalgic memories. I express these themes through drawings and sculptures, each possessing its own narrative. These narratives are conveyed through unique characters that serve as a vessel for personal introspection and societal messages, often encapsulating hidden desires and concealed emotions. Utilizing whimsical humor, my work often includes nostalgic figures and objects that evoke sentimental responses in viewers. Central to my artistic process is an ongoing exploration of self. Constant self-inquiry regarding my identity allows me to delve into diverse narratives through these characters. They represent the spectrum of my emotional landscape, influenced by both internal and external factors such as trauma, anxiety, longing, and desire. My drawings and sculptures serve as a visual diary, reflecting the spectrum of emotions I experience daily. Often, I incorporate found objects into my work, not only to introduce a new visual language but also to underscore the original narratives. These found objects fuel my imagination, resulting in a fusion of elements that create visual complexity.
Artist Biography
Huey Lee is a ceramic artist from South Korea who has dedicated his career to exploring the expressive possibilities of clay. After completing his training as a traditional Korean ceramic artisan, Lee honed his skills working at various pottery and ceramic studios. During this time, he had the privilege of studying under renowned ceramic artists such as TaeGon Kim, Inchin Lee, and the late Gil-bae Kim, who imparted their knowledge of technique, form, and aesthetics. He holds a BFA from Kyung Hee University in Korea and an MFA from the University of Georgia.
