Renowned artist Lee Inseob presents a profound body of work, comprising 35 solo exhibitions and over 500 group exhibitions across Korea and internationally, alongside being honored with the prestigious Korea Arts Prize.
For Lee Inseob, whose yearning for an ideal world resonates profoundly, nature serves as both a tranquil force within the soul and a compelling way of existence, drawing inspiration from Eastern philosophical concepts. It embodies an eternal life principle that not only guides him but also serves as the logical framework and thought process behind his artistic endeavors, enabling him to delve into the profound depths of his canvases, transcending their mere essence.
In exploring his abstract expressionist style, Lee Inseob creates a synthesis of Eastern and Western artistic traditions. While his vibrant colors and gestural brushstrokes evoke the emotional intensity reminiscent of Western abstract expressionism, he infuses his work with Eastern philosophical ideas, such as the concept of harmony with nature and the impermanence of existence.
Central to Lee Inseob’s artistic vision is the interplay between nature and human life. His paintings serve as a visual exploration of the interconnectedness between the two, highlighting the symbiotic relationship wherein humans are not separate from nature but rather an integral part of it. Through his compositions, he seeks to evoke a sense of unity and harmony, inviting viewers to contemplate their place within the broader ecosystem.
Employing delineating lines to demarcate color planes, Lee Inseob occasionally presents elements such as trees and towering mountains in abstract forms, inviting viewers to explore the intricate layers of his compositions. Utilizing a mixture of paint and ash applied with a coarse brush, he achieves a three-dimensional and tactile quality, imbuing his works with a palpable sense of depth and texture that echoes the richness of the natural world.
In Lee Inseob’s creations, nature emerges anew, conceived spontaneously and born from a stream of consciousness, devoid of deliberate intention. His unique blend of Eastern and Western influences invites viewers to immerse themselves in the profound depths of his artistic expression, offering a fresh perspective on the abstract expressionist tradition while reflecting on the timeless relationship between humanity and the natural world.

Lee, InSeob harnesses the captivating power of vibrant hues and ashes in his transcendent painting series “From Nature; Untamed.” With meticulous intention, he combines these evocative elements to symbolize the inherent cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. By infusing ashes into his art, Lee invites viewers to embrace the ephemeral beauty found in the kaleidoscope of life’s diverse palette. Rooted in the rich landscapes of Korea, his portraits become conduits for contemplating the spontaneous flow of life’s transformative journey. Set amidst the serene surroundings of Eeoseongjeon, a rural village that resonates with his yearning for a true sense of belonging, Lee finds solace and inspiration. His artistry, manifested through vibrant brushwork, bridges the realms of the tangible and the intangible, allowing viewers to embark on an introspective journey into the vibrant tapestry of existence through his series “From Nature; Untamed.“