Her current series, Daughters of the Sea, recently exhibited at the SĀBRS Festival in Riga, interprets the mythology of sea gods and the traditions of haenyeo divers through layered, meditative painting techniques.
Documenting Folklore Through Traditional Craft
Lee’s artistic process centers on the intersection of oral tradition and physical craft. According to the artist, her projects begin with field research, which includes reading regional folktales and visiting the specific locations where these stories originated. Rather than creating literal illustrations of existing myths, Lee focuses on the symbols, emotional resonance, and lingering questions found within these narratives.
Her work relies on the specific properties of hanji paper and bunchae pigments. Lee describes her method as a slow, layered process that allows for the creation of textures that are not achievable with other materials. This labor-intensive approach serves as a meditative practice, providing the artist space to engage with the historical and mythological subject matter as she works.
Focus on Coastal Narratives and Women’s Labor
A central theme in Lee’s compositions is the representation of women’s knowledge, labor, and resilience. By synthesizing motifs from coastal storytelling, such as the haenyeo diving tradition, Lee aims to translate regional symbols into new visual forms. These works are currently being presented through her ongoing project, Daughters of the Sea.
Future Expansion and Graphic Novel Development
Lee is currently developing a graphic novel that centers on the mythology and folklore of Busan, with a target completion date of next year. Beyond her print and illustration work, the artist has expressed an interest in evolving her creative practice. She intends to transition Daughters of the Sea into a more participatory project, seeking to connect narratives from various global regions. Her goal is to move folklore beyond the traditional gallery setting and transform it into a shared, interactive experience for audiences.