We were lucky to catch up with Seung-Jun Lee recently and have shared our conversation below.
Seung-Jun, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
As an artist, I consider it paramount to remain fully present and to immerse oneself in the experiences that surround you, whether through interactions with people, exploration of diverse cultures, or exposure to new environments. This approach not only enriches your perspective but also informs and inspires your artistic practice, fostering a deeper connection with the world in a vibrant and dynamic manner.
Moreover, reflecting on my life journey, I’ve had the privilege of residing in various cultures and countries. This constant exposure to change and diversity has been instrumental in cultivating my adaptability and fostering personal growth. Embracing the fluidity of different environments and engaging with individuals who share a similar mindset has been pivotal in my artistic evolution. It’s through this openness to change and the forging of connections within the art community that I continuously learn and find inspiration for my creative endeavors.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As an artist and curator based in New York City, my creative journey revolves around producing large-scale drawings that serve as visual narratives of my personal history. Each piece is a labor-intensive process, akin to nurturing a plant, where I act as the climate, guiding its growth and development. This approach allows for a deep connection with each artwork, as I naturally influence its direction throughout its creation.
Recently, I’ve expanded my artistic horizons by stepping into the role of a curator. Together with my fellow artist, Sha Luo, I curated our inaugural group show at Tutu Gallery in Brooklyn. This venture marks an important transition for me, emphasizing the significance of not only creating art for oneself but also fostering a sense of community and support among fellow artists.
I firmly believe that the art world thrives when artists come together to share their work and uplift one another. It’s this spirit of collaboration and generosity that strengthens our creative landscape and nurtures a vibrant community where artists can truly flourish.
The exhibition will run until June 1st, 2024, featuring a diverse array of thirteen artists primarily from New York and Baltimore. I extend a warm invitation to any creatives seeking a welcoming community to join us for the upcoming events. It’s an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and be inspired by the rich tapestry of artistic expression on display.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Connecting with people you can meet face-to-face is crucial: While it’s valuable to draw inspiration from the greats, there’s something special about finding inspiration in those around you. I highly recommend building relationships with individuals you admire and can interact with in person. It’s an opportunity not just to learn from them but also to cultivate genuine friendships.
Remember, everyone faces challenges: In a bustling and pricey city like New York, it’s common to encounter difficulties scheduling meetups or events. It’s important to recognize that someone’s absence from your social gathering is often not personal. Everyone is hustling just as hard as you are. Embracing this reality fosters humility and keeps you grounded.
Find balance in your social life: While socializing can be beneficial, it can also drain your energy and detract from your artistic pursuits. Personally, I prioritize my studio time by planning my days in advance. In a bustling metropolis, maintaining a consistent art practice amidst numerous social engagements can be challenging. One strategy I employ is to schedule multiple events on the same day, maximizing my social interactions while still preserving dedicated studio time.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
Go biking! Explore the city! Go places you’ve never been before. I think it is the best feeling when you have a friend who can do sporty activities with you and is interested in exploring areas you are interested in.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://seung-jun.com/
- Instagram: @lifeisajuke
Image Credits
Studio portrait shot by Yulin Gu (https://www.instagram.com/little9173/)
