Fostering Aesthetic Elegance: The Visionary Glass Art of Jiyong Lee
In the serene environment of Carbondale, Illinois, Jiyong Lee operates at the intersection of art and science, transforming glass into mesmerizing sculptures that reflect the intricate beauty of life. As a distinguished artist and educator, Lee has played a pivotal role in shaping the glass program at Southern Illinois University since 2005, blending innovation with tradition to inspire future generations. Born in South Korea, Lee’s journey into the realms of art took him to the Rochester Institute of Technology in New York, where he not only refined his craft but also shared his wisdom as a faculty member.
Lee’s creations celebrate subtlety and complexity, eschewing the clamor for attention in favor of tranquil allure that captivates the observer’s gaze and provokes curiosity. His sculptures, renowned for their serene beauty and elegant forms, encourage viewers to peer beyond the surface and into the soul of the glass itself. The ‘Segmentation Series,’ initially inspired by the ultrasound image of his child and further influenced by revisiting biology textbooks to reconnect with the concept of cellular development—a subject he is familiar with, having grown up with a father who was a medical doctor and was surrounded by biological imagery—embodies a deeply personal and insightful exploration into the origins of life.
Delving into the craft, Lee employs cold-worked and laminated glass techniques, enriching his sculptures with layers of colored adhesives and intricate cuts, reminiscent of the detailed workmanship of woodworking. This meticulous approach results in artworks that navigate the spectrum of transparency and opacity, echoing the chaotic inception of life and its eventual order and form. Lee’s artistic narrative extends into the microscopic, focusing on cells and biological elements invisible to the naked eye, yet fundamental to our existence.
Despite the myriad of colors life offers, Lee finds a unique resonance in the simplicity of monochrome, particularly white, which he explores through various densities in his “Segmentation Series.” This preference underscores the nuanced interplay of light and shadow, revealing a world of complexity within the apparent simplicity of form.
Among his numerous accolades, Lee has been honored with the Emerging Artist Award by the Glass Art Society and oversees the glass program at Southern Illinois University. His works, housed in esteemed institutions like the Corning Museum of Glass and the Museum of Glass in Tacoma, Washington, stand as testament to his vision and skill.
Lee’s artistic exploration transcends mere aesthetic appeal, venturing into the realms of scientific inquiry. His artworks serve as abstract representations of the minuscule, marrying the microscopic world with the vast expanse of human perception. This unique fusion challenges and mesmerizes enthusiasts from both the scientific and artistic communities. Particularly, his emphasis on diatoms—microscopic yet vital organisms for our planet’s oxygen supply—signals a deep engagement with environmental sustainability. By incorporating the imperative issue of water quality into his art, Lee underscores a critical environmental dialogue.
The confluence of science and art in Jiyong Lee’s work beckons viewers on an enlightening journey, encouraging them to ponder the invisible forces molding our existence. With glass as his medium, Lee skillfully encapsulates the fragile splendor of life, inviting a deeper reflection on humanity’s role within the ecosystem. His art does more than capture beauty; it serves as a compelling call to consciousness about our interconnectedness with nature and the importance of preserving our world’s delicate balance. Lee’s creations are not just visual feats but poignant reminders of the intricate dance between life, art, and science, urging us to appreciate and protect the unseen wonders that sustain us.
