Jiyung Lee's artistic journey is a captivating exploration of the interplay between words, objects, and visual storytelling. Her unique approach to illustration involves a meticulous process that begins with a single word, evolving into a structured composition that resembles a catalogue, yet ultimately transforms into a poetic masterpiece.
Lee's background in South Korea and her studies in France have significantly influenced her artistic style. The intimate, small-scale environment of her French school encouraged a diverse exploration of various art forms, including printmaking, drawing, installation, editorial, and graphic design. This interdisciplinary approach has allowed her to translate ideas into visual languages effectively.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Lee's work is her fascination with the symbolic nature of images. She challenges the boundaries between painting, design, and illustration, creating works that are both visually captivating and thought-provoking. Her inspiration stems from the organization and presentation of everyday objects, particularly in market stalls and supermarket flyers, where the arrangement of items creates a unique visual language.
The technical aspect of Lee's process is equally fascinating. She divides the page into a grid, almost like a catalogue layout, and then meticulously draws each object within its designated space. The use of rulers, circle templates, and ellipse guides adds a layer of restriction while also fostering creativity. Her forms are stripped down to their essentials, pushed towards the abstract, and then carefully balanced to remain legible.
Two notable series showcase Lee's exceptional talent. The bread series features croissants, baguettes, and other baked goods arranged on a dark background in warm golds and yellows, creating a silhouette-like taxonomy of carbohydrates. Similarly, the insect Riso print series presents beetles, moths, butterflies, and centipedes on a black base in vivid colors, blending the elements of a field guide and a surreal dream. These collaborations with print studios highlight Lee's appreciation for the tactile and physical qualities of Risograph printing.
At the core of Lee's work is a profound belief in the human presence behind every object. She emphasizes that even the most ordinary items carry traces of intention and everyday life, designed, made, chosen, used, and arranged by people. This perspective adds a layer of depth and meaning to her illustrations, making them more than just visual representations but rather windows into the human experience.
In conclusion, Jiyung Lee's artistic approach is a testament to the power of words, structure, and human presence in visual storytelling. Her ability to transform simple objects into captivating and thought-provoking works of art is a testament to her talent and unique perspective. Lee's work invites viewers to appreciate the beauty and meaning that can be found in the everyday, encouraging a deeper connection to the world around us.
