Chen Lok Lee
Artist
Educator
Immigrant
When I first came to America, I brought images in my head with me. I developed skills in a western art form — printmaking. My ideas (images from the East) manifest in a western art form which I feel helps to create an international bridge between the two cultures. Today, I once again work in Chinese painting and calligraphy as well as printmaking. Chinese see my work as western; westerners see my work as Chinese. As for me, I wish to use an international language.” – Chen Lok Lee
Dedicated to preserving the legacy and works of pioneer Asian American artist and educator Chen Lok Lee (1927-2020). Managed by daughter Romana Lee.
My father was a remarkable person
On December 13, 2020, I lost my father Chen Lok Lee, pioneering Asian American artist, to COVID-19. I am on a journey to honor his life story, works of art and contributions to the international conversations of art and democracy.Follow the story here in real time as I document and archive his impact on the world.
I am partnering with art institutions, art enthusiasts and historians, community-based organizations and other supporters to bring his story to life. This includes organizing, cataloging, digitizing and archiving his work, and ultimately sharing his most iconic pieces for the general public to enjoy and benefit from.
The third exhibit of the work of Chen Lok Lee just closed at Friends Select School in Center City, Philadelphia. For updates on future, current and past exhibits, and how to view the collection, follow this link.
The first posthumous exhibit of Chen Lok Lee’s work opened at the Crane Community Center in Philadelphia on September 17, 2021 | More Info | and has been followed by exhibits at UPenn and other venues. For updates on future, current and past exhibits, and how to view the collection, follow this link.
To get involved or support my journey, follow the story here or write to me at:
chenlokleeartist
@gmail.com
Recent Blog Entries
Moon Gazing: a new project launches
2024 has ushered in new energy and new projects. I’m thrilled to announce my…
Lee’s work to be included in the Free Library of Philadelphia’s Special Collections
The Chen Lok Lee Legacy Project is closing out 2023 with some very positive news….
Sharing Chen’s love of learning and exploration
On September 12, Friends Select School hosted a reception for the Chen Lok Lee Legacy…
Little learners light up with inspiration
All good things must come to an end
On June 9, we lovingly and gently deinstalled the EXCLUDED/INCLUSION: The Work of Chen Lok…
Stepping into the World of Chen Lok Lee
Join us in commemorating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage month with a captivating…
Creating a platform to be vulnerable
This post was written by guest blogger, Gao Ly Vang, a Temple University MSW graduate…
Why don’t we know how to handle grief?
On November 2, 2022, I had the pleasure of hosting nearly 25 Asian and…
A Special Moment in Time
As a daughter of two artists, I have been trained to recognize beauty in this…
Excluded/Inclusion: the Work of Chen Lok Lee
The time has come for us to proudly announce the next exhibit for Chen Lok…
Bryn Mawr College recognizes the power of legacy
Featured: Chen Lok Lee’s color lithograph “Seven” is featured in the Bryn Mawr College Alumnae…
Chen Lok Lee’s work lives on at Tufts University
From left to right: Chen Lok Lee, Romana Lee, Linda Lee and Raymond Lee. All…