‘We live in relationship to others, and the relationship is woven like a web.’
Artist: 엘리양 / Ellyang
Artistic style: Abstract paintings with pointillism
Biggest artistic influence: Georges Seurat
About the Artist
Ellyang is an artist who draws abstract paintings with pointillism. Her pieces are made up of a “myriad of tiny dots” or points of light, and when combined form an intricate pattern that are amazing to see, and observe up close. At first you might miss the intricacy of her art, but taking a closer view, you really appreciate the skill and hard work that goes into her creations. Lee started to draw to cure her mental illness while she was working in another occupation. Her honest and openness about this is admirable and refreshing – as are some of her answers in the interview further below.
Lee’s career has developed (blossomed), and these days she is consistently working on several exhibitions and fairs every year. Her work has also been on display within Korea at KIAF Seoul, and Busan Art shows – and she has been showcased internationally at art shows in Germany, Singapore, Dubai and the UK. Lee has one several prizes, including a prize in the female art competition in Korea. She is highly influenced by Georges Seurat, who expressed light and colours with pointillism.
When asked about her dream project, Lee replied that she is currently preparing a piece in canvas, which is 260cm (W) x 194cm (H) for Venice Biennale.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received as an artist?
It is loneliness. Spending time well when I am by myself is a basic thing for the artist. I think an artist could be creative when they are by themselves.
When you start new pieces, what does your creative process look like? Do you plan each piece out before you start, or do you let the piece come to life as you go?
It depends on the works, but I usually improvise. I would love to show creativity from my unconscious.
Note: I would also love to see this.
How do you overcome creative blocks?
I just let it go. I go on a walk or think a lot when I face challenges.
Do you have a favourite piece of art that you’ve created?
Gravity.
Do you have any tips for other artists who are just starting out?
It is difficult for me to tell people about the way of living as an artist. It would be different for each individual, but generally, I would recommend trying a lot of experiences and experiments.
What’s been the most challenging thing you’ve created?
I always think about confirming my limitation, and my biggest challenge to overcome would finding the way of delivering my thoughts by drawing, not writing.
What’s the best reaction someone has had to your artwork?
International audiences were impressed with the materials and focus when they saw my works ‘Nirvana’, ‘Gravity’ and ‘Fractal’.
What’s been the most surprising thing about being an artist?
I was surprised when the audience could get the energy that I spent when I drew the works. I haven’t considered that, the works were totally for me.
What do you hope people take away from your artwork?
I hope people who have similar energy with me could find their comfort and imagine their own universe, as I cured my wound from reality, agony and wandering via my works.
Follow the artist
www.instargram.com/ellyang_2016
www.opengallery.co.kr/artist/A1075/