Lottee Museum of Art Showcases Over 50 Cartoon-Like Paintings, Sculptures, and Videos

Courtesy of LMOA

American artist Austin Lee's debut solo exhibition, "Passing Time," has opened at the Lotte Museum of Art (LMOA) in Seoul, offering a captivating exploration of emotions through more than 50 of his distinctive cartoon-like creations. 

▲ Installation view of American artist Austin Lee's solo exhibition, "Passing Time," at the Lotte Museum of Art in southern Seoul / Courtesy of LMOA

The exhibition, characterized by a dreamlike and hazy landscape, integrates digital technology into Lee's artistic process. Beginning with simple digital 3D sketches, the artworks transition into tangible, airbrush-painted canvas pieces or life-size sculptures. The visual style, evoking a sense of the artist's subconscious, portrays a blend of emotions such as joy, sorrow, and anguish. 

▲ Austin Lee's "Fountain" (2023) / Courtesy of LMOA

Among the featured works, "Fountain" is introduced for the first time at LMOA. The sculpture presents the artist lying on his stomach in a blue void, arms outstretched, with a single stream of water flowing from his mouth. The piece invites contemplation as visitors observe the water, reminiscent of tears, in a playfully offbeat and charming manner.

The painting "Cry Baby" from 2021 references Lee's past as an amateur boxer in high school. Depicting a boxer submerged in misty water, the artwork raises questions about the emotions behind the raised, gloved arms—whether celebratory or indicative of internal struggle. 

▲ Austin Lee's "Flower Hill" (2023) / Courtesy of LMOA

The exhibition concludes on a joyful note with the animated video "Flower Hill." The lemon-hued video showcases anthropomorphic flowers dancing on a grassy mound from sunrise to sunset, symbolizing the passage of time and the anticipation of the upcoming New Year.

"Passing Time" is on display at the Lotte Museum of Art until December 31.

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