I attempt to create art by taking traditional patterns and designs found in my Korean heritage and re-presenting them in modern terms to express my reflections upon my experiences. My background in industrial and graphics design also deeply influences my style. More recently, I have experimented with combining my artwork with digital media.
Born in Taegu, South Korea, Jangwon Lee earned his BFA majoring in industrial design from Hongik University in Seoul, South Korea. He was awarded the best of show prize in industrial arts at the Second Korean National Universities Art Competition. Following graduation, for three consecutive years he was awarded the special prize at the Korean National Commercial & Industrial Design Competition, entitling him to be a recommended artist in future competitions. After college he also worked as head designer of advertising for Korean Airlines until his emigration from Korea to the United States. In the US, Jangwon spent over a decade as a senior graphic artist for Hughes Helicopters and Rockwell International. He then successfully ran an art gallery and framing business for over 20 years in Northridge, California. He decided to retire the business in order to devote himself exclusively to his art and moved to Orange County to be able to participate in the Festival of Arts in Laguna Beach, of which he has been a featured artist exhibitor since 2015.