A self-taught abstract painter, Eric Lee’s works consist of back-painted glass. Having spent roughly 20 years as a technical consultant to architects and designers, the influences on his work have been largely from outside the art world. His approach to painting reflects his philosophy about aesthetics in general. “The key to what ‘works’ and what doesn’t work, lies in the transitions,” says Lee.

Having pioneered the use of a process that allows him to seal the back-painted surfaces against damage from moisture and abrasion, Lee’s work has evolved in a manner to allow the creation of frameless paintings as well as functional art pieces.

“My approach to painting,” says Lee, “reflects my philosophy about aesthetics in general. The effective juxtaposition of what may seem to be conflicting or incompatible colors, may lie in the way they blend and how one handles the segue.”

He continues, “As my work evolves, I seek to explore that core concept—the effect of blending and transition from one color, form and even material to another. I suppose that in a broad sense, this is my world view as well: that the key to things working between people of various genders, religions, national origins and sexual preferences...and colors, lies in our ability to see the beauty inherent in each. That allows us to be who we are and our willingness to see the beauty in the subtlety is what connects us.

As for my evolution as an artist, my work, both in terms of my paintings and my “functional art” pieces, is an outgrowth of my experience. The majority of my adult life has been spent in some way related to the built environment. I spent roughly 20 years prior to pursuing painting as a career, as a technical consultant to architects. During that time, I was fortunate enough to be exposed to a wide range of interpretations as to what constitutes good design. It wasn’t until I began painting that I realized how deeply I’d internalized the effect of color as part of the overall design process.

What was until recently to me, an element with unrealized potential, the effect that color has in the design process, is the center of my approach to painting. While I very much hope to continue to explore the impact of form and texture in my work, the cornerstone of my aesthetic lies in the significance of color.

Until now, the influences on my work have been largely from outside the art world per se and I take some comfort in that. At the same time, I find myself being energized and challenged as I seek to find my path through the art community... trying to stay true to the songs that sing to me... while listening and appreciating the music heard and played by others.”

Eric’s work can be found in fine art galleries in Sedona AZ, Jackson Hole WY, Park City UT, Cannon Beach OR, Lincoln City OR and other cities. For a location near you, contact us.