Lee Ufan, an artist, philosopher, and thinker, has left an indelible mark on the art world with his unique approach to creativity. His upcoming exhibitions in Venice and New York, marking his 90th year, promise to offer a captivating journey through his artistic evolution.
The Artist's Journey
Lee's artistic journey began in the late 1960s as a founding member of Mono-ha, a group that challenged traditional boundaries and embraced natural and industrial materials. His early works, such as the 'From Point' and 'From Line' paintings, were a testament to his exploration of time and space. These paintings, created with a deliberate process of repeated marks, reflected his interest in the passage of time and the relationship between presence and absence.
A Universal Language
What makes Lee's work particularly fascinating is his ability to transcend cultural boundaries. Instead of emphasizing his Asian heritage, he focuses on universal experiences and dialogues. He believes in the power of exchange and the importance of accepting and expressing external influences. This approach is evident in his works, which amalgamate Eastern and Western aesthetics and philosophies.
The Impact of Barnett Newman
A pivotal moment in Lee's artistic journey was his encounter with Barnett Newman's exhibition at MoMA in 1971. Newman's spatial paintings inspired Lee to explore the expression of time through his own body. He realized that anyone, anywhere, could express the passage of time, and this led him to develop his unique style.
Mono-ha and Political Underpinnings
The socio-political climate of the late 1960s greatly influenced Mono-ha's artistic philosophy. Lee's early works, such as dropping stones onto glass, carried a political message, even if it was not explicitly stated. The group's denial of everything established and their focus on the violent and destructive became a form of artistic expression.
Evolving Style: From Order to Chaos
Lee's artistic style evolved over time. After a decade of focusing on systematic and ordered paintings, he felt the need to break free and introduce chaos. This led to the creation of the 'From Winds' and 'With Winds' paintings, which featured tumultuously gestural brushstrokes. He wanted to bring in the wind, to break things up, and to create a new order out of the chaos.
The Importance of What's Not There
In his more recent 'Dialogue' paintings, Lee emphasizes the importance of the untouched and the unseen. He aims to establish a new form of expression that goes beyond himself, combining the painted and the unpainted. This phase of his work is a testament to his ability to evolve and challenge himself, something he believes is essential for artists.
The Role of Breathing and Body Movement
Lee's process is deeply connected to his body and breath. He holds his breath and exhales while painting, a ritual that he compares to a ceremony. This biological act, shared by all creatures, allows him to express himself naturally and authentically. He believes that by bending over the canvas, he can connect with the universe and create a flow that transcends ego.
The Significance of Location
The location of his exhibitions is not merely a backdrop; it's an integral part of the artistic experience. Lee believes that the canvas, though sacred to many, is limited and materialistic. By painting on the floor or the wall, he connects his work with the space and the external world. This connection with nature and space is a powerful tool for self-reflection and understanding.
The Evolution of Color
Color plays a significant role in Lee's work, evolving from monochrome to vibrant hues. He started with simple colors and, as he aged, recognized the importance of exchanging with the outside world through color. His recent works feature a clash of colors, an 'ocean of colors,' as he puts it, a playful nod to his desire to stay young at heart.
The Power of Art
Lee's belief in the power of art to change the world has evolved over time. While Mono-ha started as a denial, he now embraces a more positive and affirmative approach. He encourages artists to constantly question and embrace ambiguity, to portray their image in a way that allows others to interpret it freely. The process of making art, he believes, is a reflection of one's life, and it invites people to think about themselves and their future dreams.
Conclusion
Lee Ufan's artistic journey is a testament to his ability to evolve, challenge conventions, and connect with universal experiences. His upcoming exhibitions promise to offer a profound and thought-provoking experience, inviting viewers to reflect on their own lives and the power of living.
