We’re excited to introduce you to Vancouver abstract artist Jean Lee. Her contemporary art is inspired by her time as a live aboard sailor which we found so interesting. We think you’ll love getting to know Jean Lee more and seeing more of her abstract art.
Vancouver Artist Jean Lee
What’s the main inspiration for your art?
I used to be a live aboard sailor. The charts I used to navigate our courses and plot our adventures are the seeds of my artistic inspiration. The shape and form of the land masses, the land that jettison out and the contour of the islands which were our safe harbor play in contrast to the empty spaces of ocean water and serpentine navigational channels we traversed. Topography, geology, the landscape as seen from a bird’s eye-view; the land that hold us, the land that connect us, the land we all call home is the main inspiration for my work.
What is the biggest goal you try to achieve with your art?
The biggest goal is love; I want the viewers to fall in love with my paintings.
What’s your favourite thing about being an abstract artist?
Freedom of expression. I get to channel my emotional energy out.
Why abstract art and not other mediums? Have you always created abstract art or did you start out creating other styles?
After I sold a abstract piece before I graduation from art college, I knew abstraction was my natural way of expression.
If you could describe your art in three words, what would they be?
Sophisticated. Expressive. Alluring.
What’s one thing people might not know about you and/or your art journey so far?
I started out my art journey studying ceramics.
Did you always know you’d be an artist or how has your art journey progressed?
I loved art in school but it was not a profession available to me coming from a working family. I started my art study/career later in life. At that time, I was living and working in a town two hours from the art school I was attending. Some days I had to drive to blinding snow storms to get to my classes. There had been stops and starts due to financial constraints but I’m happy I can now pursue it on a full-time basis.
In your opinion, what’s the most important personal characteristic needed to embark on a career as an artist?
Persistence blended with patience and be fearless.
What advice would you give up and coming abstract artists?
Find your authentic voice, it may take some time but give yourself the permission to experiment and play. Look for opportunities, look for like-minded people for support, prepared for hard work and most of all, have fun.
What’s your most fulfilling and enjoyable experience as an artist so far?
Connecting with the public. Meeting the viewers and seeing their reaction to my work.
Where do you see yourself and your art in 5 years?
Working in larger format, my work in galleries, and teach.
What do you love most about abstract art?
Do you have any favourite quotes?
To learn even more about Vancouver abstract artist Jean Lee and see more of her paintings, head to her website here.
To discover even more Canadian abstract artists, click here.
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