Shawn Lee
My work is rooted in quiet observation, shaped by an introverted sensibility and a deep
engagement with the subtleties of everyday life. I construct narratives and conceptual
frameworks through a personal, perspectival lens, examining the relationships between
subjects and objects as they unfold in space and time.
My practice is shaped by a deep engagement with spatial memory and emotional
resonance. Within my painting, I search for atmosphere and narration through my
authentic observations. I strive to capture the honest feelings by using composition that
helps convey and narrate the scene or subjects. I draw to the understated and often
overlooked elements of lived experience, for example those moments of stillness,
ambiguity, and quiet transformation that lingers within our minds. I aim to foster
contemplative engagement, encouraging viewers to reflect on the subtle interplay
between place, perception, and presence.
I am an observational/ figurative painter and am inspired by artists such as Walter
Sickert, Gwen John and Édouard Vuillard. I am also inspired by many current
emerging/established artists that share the same motivation in painting.
Education:
- Bachelors of Science (Architecture) (Honours) , Taylors University, Malaysia
(September 2014)
- Master of Architecture, University of Brighton, UK (RIBA II, June 2017)
- Postgrad Professional Practice, University of Westminster, UK (RIBA III, September
2022)
Collaborative Painting Group:
- Southern Pleinair Member - Since January 2022
Represented Gallery:
• The Point Contemporary
• Cicek Gallery
Year 2025
• The Point Contemporary, Winter Light Exhibition - January 2025• Royal Society of British Artist Annual Exhibition - February 2025
• Brighton & Hove Art Council Annual Exhibition - April 2025
• Royal Society of British Artist Rising Star Exhibition - May 2025
• New English Art Club Annual Exhibition - June 2025
• The Point Contemporary, Somer Exhibition – August 2025
• Art for Youth Annual Exhibition – November 2025
• ING Discerning Eye Exhibition – November 2025
Year 2024
• Southern Plein Air (Group Exhibition) - April 2024
• Preselected New English Art Club Exhibition - April 2024
• Highgate Little Painting Show - May 2024
• Chelsea Art Society 75th Annual Exhibition - June 2024
• Longlisted Hampstead Art Society Annual Exhibition - July 2024
• Southern Plein Air (Group Exhibition) - October 2024
• The Royal Institute of Oil Painters Exhibition - November 2024
Year 2023
• The Gallery at Green and Stones - Works on Paper - January 2023
• Chelsea Art Society 74th Annual Exhibition - June 2023
• The Royal Institute of Oil Painters Exhibition - November 2023
• Highgate Postcard Exhibition - November 2023
Prizes / Awards
• Highly Commended for Royal Oil Painters Institute Paint Out - December 2022
• Highly Commended for Chelsea Art Society & London Painting Group
Competition- June 2024
• 1st Prize Award for Royal Oil Painters Institute Paint Out - November 2024
• Royal Society of British Artist Shortlist Rising Start – May 2025
• NEAC Scholarship – June 2025
• 4th Prize Green and Stone Gallery Choice Award – August 2025