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
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…
Centering arts innovation in Philadelphia
On May 10, 2022, I was proud and grateful for the opportunity to represent the…
Young people, big dreams
This past school year, I had an amazing time speaking to the entire 5th grade…
We Released Chen Lok Lee’s Spirit to the World
“When we lose someone we love, we don’t learn how to live without them. We…
Looking after legacies: from one Lee family to another
It was an honor of a lifetime to meet with and get to know the…
Caring for these precious gifts is my way of showing love
My favorite time of the week is when I am at work taking care of…
New + Old: The Value of Cultural Preservation
It’s been a minute since Sara Havekotte and I were in the “studio”. Today’s goal was to…
He taught me how to work in collaboration and partnership with others
As a professor at Moore College of Art and Design, Chen Lee often brought in…
The Chen Lok Lee Legacy Project receives prestigious Sachs Program grant
We’re thrilled to announce that the Sachs Program for Art Innovation at the University of…
Grief Can and Does Co-Exist with Joy in this Refugee Life
June 20 was World Refugee Day. I had the honor of delivering remarks at Philadelphia’s…
We’re Moving Out!
We are all packed and ready to go — it’s move out day! Phase 1…
An extraordinary journey and a life well lived
“A life well lived”. – Paola Morsiani, executive director of the Brodsky Center at PAFA,…