J.Lee's Senior Artwork

Monday, May 3, 2010

Artist Statement

The one motto that has been consistent throughout all my artwork is the ideas of “use what you have.” In most educational institution in the United States, students have access to the typical pencils, pens, paper, and the all of the Crayola collection. Through these everyday materials, I wanted to transform what is thought to be “mundane” items to something that can be valued and purposeful in art. The usefulness of these everyday tools gradually developed my technique in observational still-life drawings. The practice of drawing observationally has strengthened and given value to my artwork that is not realistic. By focusing on the details of the still-life for an observational drawing, I have strengthen my craftsmanship and pay attention to how my materials convey my ideas in art pieces that are unrealistic. Throughout my student career the idea of transforming the use of materials and the materials themselves into both real and fantasy is prominent in my artwork.

Education has both provided foundations for my future and connections to issues and events; this has continuously shaped my artwork. In addition to the technical aspect of art education, I have developed my purpose to continue making art. My attachment to environmental and health issues has given me the motivation to address issues through art such as recycling items and transforming devalued items into a work of art. I have grown to be an engaged artist and scholar in my community and this passion to benefit others has given purpose to my artwork.

My purpose for art making has given me deep appreciation for famous artists such as Makoto Aida. As a Japanese contemporary artist who has experienced the motto “use what you have,” Makoto Aida has transformed many mundane materials and trash into beautiful works of art with the influences of Japanese cartoon and traditional paintings. In the future, I hope I can avoid getting yelled for collecting recycled items and bring value to everyday items as well as bringing and educating the public of environmental and health issues.