Mary Bernadette Lee: Exploring Phenomenology Through Art
Mary Bernadette Lee, known professionally as mrydette, is a Singaporean artist whose practice centers on a profound phenomenological exploration of the relationship between human experience and its environment. Born in 1985, Lee’s artistic journey began in earnest around 2014, driven by an unwavering fascination with how our bodies interact with architecture and place—concepts she considers crucial to understanding psychological states like Self, Identity and Home. This approach isn't merely observational; it actively seeks to capture the essence of lived experience, translating intangible sensations into tangible forms through mediums ranging from painting and illustration to linocut prints and sculptural explorations.
Early Influences & Education: Lee’s artistic sensibilities were nurtured during her undergraduate studies at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communication with Honors. Her curriculum emphasized critical thinking alongside technical skills, fostering a holistic understanding of artmaking and its role within broader cultural contexts. The emphasis on philosophical inquiry—particularly phenomenology—laid the groundwork for Lee’s distinctive artistic vision, shaping her commitment to delving into subjective experience as the cornerstone of creative expression. Influenced by thinkers like Ernst Ludwig Kirchner and Henri Matisse, she strives to depict not just what is seen but how it feels to perceive it, capturing the subtle nuances of emotion and memory within her artworks.
A Phenomenological Lens: At the core of Lee’s artistic vision lies phenomenology—a philosophical tradition that prioritizes subjective experience as fundamental to knowledge. This perspective compels artists to consider how perception shapes understanding and emphasizes the importance of embodied awareness in interpreting the world around us. Kirchner's exploration of psychological landscapes and Matisse’s vibrant use of color served as formative inspirations, guiding Lee’s stylistic choices and informing her conceptual framework. Her work consistently seeks to communicate these intangible sensations—the feeling of being present in a space, the resonance of memory—demonstrating a deep engagement with philosophical thought alongside artistic practice.
Notable Exhibitions & Collaborations: Since 2014, Lee’s captivating artworks have graced several prestigious venues across Singapore, establishing her reputation as a rising talent within the contemporary art scene. Solo exhibitions at the Singapore Art Museum and The Substation showcased her distinctive style—characterized by layered textures and evocative imagery—capturing the spirit of urban life and reflecting on themes of identity and belonging. Collaborative projects with institutions like National Gallery Singapore and Apple Singapore underscored Lee’s dedication to engaging audiences through immersive experiences, demonstrating a willingness to explore diverse artistic mediums and collaborative partnerships. These exhibitions solidified her position as an artist committed to fostering dialogue and expanding perspectives on human experience.
Medium & Technique: Lee's artistic repertoire encompasses a diverse array of mediums, reflecting her desire to investigate the interplay between traditional and contemporary techniques. From meticulously crafted linocut prints capturing urban landscapes—often imbued with subtle tonal variations that convey mood and atmosphere—to delicate clay sculptures embodying emotional resonance—Lee utilizes materials thoughtfully chosen to communicate specific sensations and narratives. Her process involves extensive research into architectural spaces and their impact on human psychology, combined with a meticulous attention to detail in translating these observations onto canvas or sculptural form. This dedication to craft ensures that her artworks resonate deeply with viewers, conveying both intellectual insight and visceral emotion.
Current Focus & Future Aspirations: Currently an adjunct lecturer at Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), Lee continues to refine her artistic practice while mentoring aspiring artists—passing on the lessons learned from her own phenomenological explorations. Her ongoing investigations delve into themes of memory, displacement, and the transformative power of place—continuing a trajectory rooted in philosophical inquiry and driven by a passion for communicating profound human emotions through art. She envisions expanding her creative endeavors to encompass new mediums and collaborative projects, furthering her commitment to fostering artistic dialogue and enriching the cultural landscape of Singapore.
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