Lee Ufan

Lee Ufan, born in 1936 in Haman, South Korea, is a prominent painter, sculptor, and philosopher who has played a key role in the development of contemporary minimalist art. He is best known as a founding member of the Mono-ha ("School of Things") movement in Japan during the late 1960s and 1970s. Mono-ha focused on the relationship between natural and industrial materials, emphasizing the interaction between the artwork, the environment, and the viewer. This approach deeply informed Lee’s philosophy and his artistic practice, which stresses simplicity, restraint, and the importance of presence. Lee's paintings are often characterized by their minimalist approach, featuring sparse, repetitive brushstrokes on large canvases that leave significant areas of empty space. His series From Line and From Point exemplify his focus on the act of creation itself, with each brushstroke or mark representing a meditative gesture. Lee’s use of space is influenced by both Eastern and Western philosophical traditions, particularly the Japanese concept of "ma," which refers to the interval or void between forms. In his work, the empty spaces are as significant as the painted elements, creating a contemplative balance between presence and absence.In addition to painting, Lee Ufan is also known for his sculptures, which often consist of simple, raw materials such as stones and steel plates. These works emphasize the coexistence of natural and man-made elements, inviting viewers to reflect on the interconnectedness of objects and the surrounding environment. His minimalist sculptures are not meant to dominate space but to coexist with it, creating a dialogue between the materials, the viewer, and the environment in which they are placed.Lee's work has gained international recognition, with major exhibitions at prestigious institutions such as the Guggenheim Museum in New York, the Centre Pompidou in Paris, and the Venice Biennale. In 2010, a dedicated museum, the Lee Ufan Museum, opened on Japan's Naoshima Island, further cementing his influence on contemporary art. His art and philosophy continue to inspire and challenge viewers, offering a meditative approach to understanding the relationship between the visible and the invisible, and between objects and space.Lee Ufan’s minimalist yet profound exploration of materiality, space, and perception has made him a leading figure in contemporary art. His focus on simplicity, the passage of time, and the interaction between the artwork and its environment reflects a deep engagement with both Eastern and Western philosophical traditions. Through his paintings and sculptures, Lee invites contemplation, urging viewers to experience art not only as an object but as an event that unfolds in time and space.