Artist Lee ShinJa weaves together autobiography and abstract beauty in her solo exhibition, “Weaving the Dawn,” now on view at Tina Kim Gallery in New York. This remarkable show highlights seven decades of Lee’s pioneering work in fiber art, showcasing her technical innovations and lifelong dedication to pushing the boundaries of the medium. Known for her intricate tapestries, Lee’s work is rooted in her personal history, the natural landscapes of her hometown, and her bold approach to gender and genre norms in art.
Born in Korea during the Japanese occupation, Lee ShinJa grew up surrounded by textile traditions, with early encounters with thread stemming from the women in her life. While textile work was often relegated to craft or domestic practice, Lee defied these boundaries, establishing herself as a trailblazer in fiber art—a field that was virtually unrecognized in Korea at the time. At 94 years old, she continues to create luminous tapestries that draw inspiration from the natural beauty of her hometown in the Uljin mountains.
“Weaving the Dawn” offers a comprehensive look at Lee’s body of work, including both her iconic “Spirit of Mountains” series and early explorations of fiber as an artistic medium. The exhibition is a tribute to her lifelong pursuit of beauty through thread, with each piece reflecting the deep connection between the artist and the landscapes that inspire her. The tapestries are marked by her technical mastery, including appliqué, dyeing techniques, and textured punctuations, which create movement and depth in her work. The natural world, particularly the serene landscapes of her home, is transformed into abstract forms, merging the organic with the geometric.
The exhibition also offers a rare glimpse into Lee’s creative process, featuring preliminary sketches and archival materials that reveal the evolution of her technique over the decades. The inclusion of these works gives viewers a deeper understanding of her artistic journey and the thoughtfulness that defines each tapestry.
Reflecting on her early life in rural Korea, Lee shares, “I vividly remember the intense sunlight at sunrise and sunset. I have always believed in creative nature as I see it. However, I still feel that my work has yet to match the beauty of my hometown.” This connection to her roots is palpable in the rich textures, blushing colors, and window-like shapes of her tapestries, inviting viewers to share in her vision of home.
In addition to the exhibition at Tina Kim Gallery, select works from “Weaving the Dawn” will be presented from September 4 through September 7 at Booth B19 during Frieze Seoul, offering a broader audience the chance to experience Lee ShinJa’s profound contribution to the world of fiber art.
For those captivated by the intersection of autobiography, nature, and abstract beauty, “Weaving the Dawn” is a must-see exhibition that showcases the unparalleled mastery of one of the world’s most celebrated fiber artists.
–Jesse James
