Delve
Song Lee
09 - 29 October 2024
Emerging from the observations in everyday life and the phenomena that prompt her mind to transcend the ordinary, Song Lee constructs illusory spaces on the flat surface, focusing on the insecure linkage between the painted image and its capacity to disclose and obscure meaning. The resulting work encapsulates a dual nature— existing as both a physical object and a visual language— while the gesture— driven by the profound interest in the dissonance between the perceptible and imperceptible— bridges the connection between physical and cognitive realms. For Lee, our visual perceptions often veil intricate layers of significance, leaving behind traces of existence that persist beyond superficial appearances. These truths are only partially unveiled and ephemeral, constantly changing within the sphere of being.
Vessel, 2023
Oil on wood panel
10.2 x 10.2 cm​​
On Hold II, 2024
Charcoal on paper
10.2 x 7.6 cm
On Hold I, 2024
Charcoal on paper
10.2 x 16.5 cm​
Reservoir, 2024
Charcoal on paper
9 x 14 cm​​
In her work, the application of colour becomes a vehicle for in-depth exploration of the concept of movement, as both a physical and emotional phenomenon, through which to conceive the deepest human experience. Capturing the motion of figures, the works investigate how dynamic energy, even within the static confines of painting, can express a spectrum of actions— falling, looping, or dancing— that resonate beyond their surface. The representation of movement transcends the mere depiction of physical action, instead functioning as a metaphor for psychological shifts and emotional exploration. The tension between stillness and motion invites reflection on the invisible forces that drive change and transformation, shaping our perception of time, reality and the human condition. By examining repetitive rhythms, downward trajectories, and subtle variations within enclosed loops, the works suggest that motion constitutes an ever-present, underlying force, moulding both the tangible and the intangible facets of our existence.
Delve, 2024
Oil on canvas board
10.2 x 7.6 cm
Pinnacle, 2024
Oil on wood panel
10.2 x 10.2 cm
In Delve, a figure falling vertically from high to low is depicted. This movement can be associated with various actions— a dive, a fall, or even an act of suicide— any action involving a change in altitude. Interpreting this movement as carried by the mind opens up broader discussions. Both physical and emotional falls involve a loss of energy powered by weight and gravity. By titling the piece 'Delve', Lee wanted to extend the meaning of “falling” beyond the physical into an emotional or psychological descent, suggesting an introspective journey.
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T(here), 2022

Oil on linen
20 x 76 cm​
Waltz: loop, 2023
Charcoal on paper
10 x 10.5 cm ​
Still Dance, 2024
Oil on linen
20.3 x 20.3 cm​
Through a shift in focus from the examination of physical and abstract concepts of action, movement and motion to the exploration of light, Lee redirects attention to fragments of reality whose deeper truths, devoid of visible evidence, take on concreteness through the processes of conceptualisation and retention in the human mind. For Lee, the apparent and visible often obscure deeper and intangible realities, underscoring the intricacy that underlies static images and ordinary moments. The manipulation of light and the play of shadows becomes a metaphor for exteriority and interiority and a means to extrapolate the invisible from the visible. Consequently, Lee invites us to reflect on the ever-changing nature of strict meaning, the precariousness of truth, and the subjectivity of perception.
Page Not Found, 2024
Charcoal on paper
9 x 14 cm​
75020, 2024
Charcoal on paper
10.2 x 15.2 cm​
Kiss, 2024
Charcoal on paper
10.2 x 15.2 cm​
Kiss was born from an image of a bird feeding under strong daylight, casting its shadow below. The scene reminded Lee of Narcissus kissing his own reflection. In a practical sense, the bird was merely eating to satisfy a basic need, while the image evoked another metaphor about self-reflection and desire.
Verso, 2024
Oil on linen
25.4 x 20.3 cm​
For Song Lee, this exhibition explores the intricate equilibrium between what is seen and what lies beneath, employing illusory spaces to reflect the dynamic essence of significance. Her work bridges the physical and abstract, revealing how human perception merely affords fleeting glimpses of a deeper, ever-shifting reality.
SONG LEE
Song Lee (b.1997, Seoul) is an artist based in Seoul and London. She graduated with an MA in Painting from the Royal College of Art in London in 2023.
Her practice combines photographic vision with printmaking within the realm of painting. Primarily working with oil paint and charcoal, she explores the possibilities and limitations of the image as a form of visual language. Her work is characterised by the subtle interplay of texture, colour and spatial intervals, elements she employs to lead viewers through a visual journey.
Lee's works were exhibited in 2023 at various venues, including “The Hoarders” at The Shophouse (Hong Kong), “Night Boat” at Fitzrovia Gallery (London), and the Final Degree Show at the Royal College of Art (London). In 2021, she presented “TESTAMENT” at 100-0 Gallery (Seoul) and in 2019, she participated in the Final Degree Show Mille-Feuille at Hongik University (Seoul).
