"21 National Flowers" by Sangmin Lee

Archival pigment prints on Hahnemühle Paper, 16"x24"

From the artist:

"My artistic world bridges realism and abstraction, connecting LGBTQIA+ individuals, their environments, and the oppressive mechanisms of contemporary society. My process begins with visiting underground queer events. In these intimate spaces, I listen to their stories, share emotions, and visually document their struggles and hopes. I capture these moments through photography or quick sketches, which I later transform in the studio into bold and layered painterly expressions on canvas. Amid this process, I explore and reflect on the intersections and meanings of being an Asian queer artist navigating today’s world.

Throughout my work, I deliberately leave traces of layered materials on the canvas. These marks are essential elements of the piece. The bold brushstrokes symbolize the social friction faced by LGBTQIA+ identities, while the un-erased traces signify acts of resistance. Colors convey the journey of conflict and recovery, emphasizing the strength and vitality of diverse identities. My art goes beyond the act of creation, acting as a form of visual activism. It transforms spaces into places where marginalized individuals and LGBTQIA+ voices can be seen and heard.

These spaces foster meaningful connections and allow personal narratives to be shared openly. For those who share similar identities, they offer recognition and solidarity. For others, they create opportunities for dialogue and a deeper understanding of our vibrant existence."

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