We are delighted to present "Portraits," an evocative exhibition by Lee Andre.
Born in Korea and adopted at the age of five by a family in Minnesota, Lee's journey into the world of art began with an early passion for drawing, which led her to pursue a BFA from the University of Washington. After a decade-long career as a muralist, Lee paused her professional work to travel and immerse herself in the cultures of Korea, Thailand, and the UAE. In 2016, she settled in Florida and reestablished her studio practice.
"Portraits" is a testament to Lee's deep connection with nature, particularly the avian inhabitants of her local environment, though her show also features other species, such as mammals. Living near two constructed wetland habitats, she draws inspiration from the daily encounters with the diverse birdlife that frequent these areas. The limpkin, a local bird featured in the show, was observed just across the street from her home, while others, like the Sword-Billed Hummingbird and the Flightless Cormorant, hail from far-off regions like South America and the Galapagos Islands. This blend of local and exotic subjects adds a rich tapestry of biodiversity to her work. Birds have become a central theme in her recent works, though this focus evolved organically rather than through a premeditated plan. Their unique postures, patterns, textures, and personalities offer endless artistic possibilities, reflecting Lee's fascination with their inherent strangeness and beauty.
Her creative process is meticulous and rooted in observation. Although she captures initial images during her daily routines and visits to various educational institutions, her artworks are never direct copies of single photographs. Instead, she amalgamates multiple images, creating comprehensive files for each animal to inform her detailed representations. This method allows her to infuse each piece with a blend of realism and imaginative interpretation. Her art balances between scientific accuracy and artistic expression. While she strives for plausibility in her depictions, she leaves room for creative liberties, sometimes drawing inspiration from folk art.
There is a touch of subtle humour in the way Lee Andre depicts the animals. They often appear to be posing, showing their best profile, almost like humans posing for a photo. Lee humorously recalls, "I used to imagine animals standing in line to get their photo taken, the way people did when photography was new. And let's say...it's the chipmunks' turn, so he comes in and says, 'Where do you want me to stand?' And I would say, 'How about over there, and maybe you could hold this acorn? This always made me laugh'" This whimsical perspective gives her work a unique charm, making each painting feel like a formal portrait from old photographs, and coexists with a sense of nostalgia. Lee Andre’s palette and texture reflect her early influences from old photographs and personal memories. However, her drawings, once darker, have transitioned to a lighter, more nuanced palette, signifying a new chapter in her artistic journey.
"Portraits" invites viewers to explore the delicate interplay between the natural world and the artist’s creative vision. Each piece offers a glimpse into Lee Andre’s evolving perspective, where the familiar and the exotic coexist, and where every animal captured in her work tells a story of its own.
