[Jul 2 - Jul 29, 2023] THE TWELVE | STEPHANIE S. LEE’S SOLO EXHIBITION AT THE RIDGEWOOD PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Twelve

Artist: Stephanie S. Lee
Exhibition Dates: July 2–29, 2023
Location: The Ridgewood Public Library
125 N. Maple Ave., Ridgewood, NJ 07450

Exhibition Overview

In The Twelve, artist Stephanie S. Lee explored the enduring cultural symbolism and shared human narratives connected to the number twelve. Presented at the Ridgewood Public Library from July 2 to July 29, 2023, this solo exhibition reflected Lee’s ongoing dialogue between tradition and modernity—between the visible and the symbolic.

The number twelve held deep significance across civilizations and time: the twelve zodiac animals of East Asia, the twelve disciples of Christianity, the twelve labors of Hercules, the twelve constellations in astrology, and the twelve months that structured our perception of time. Through these associations, twelve became a universal number that shaped our understanding of balance, order, and human existence.

Building upon the Korean concept of Shibijisin (十二支神)—the twelve guardian deities representing time and direction—Lee reimagined these mythic protectors through a contemporary lens. Her twelve animal portraits—rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig—embodied the virtues, challenges, and resilience of human life. Interwoven with modern symbols such as diamonds and the Ouroboros, her works conveyed an enduring message:

“In the never-ending cycle of daily life, we, each and every one of us, are warriors and guardians, striving our best day by day without losing hope.”

Through The Twelve, Lee invited viewers to reflect on cultural diversity and interconnectedness. By bridging ancient wisdom and modern interpretation, her paintings revealed how traditions—though distinct—converged to illuminate shared truths about protection, perseverance, and the cyclical nature of life.

About the Artist

Stephanie S. Lee is a New York–based artist, educator, and curator known for reinterpreting Korean folk art (Minhwa) within a contemporary context. Her work has explored themes of identity, spirituality, and resilience through symbolic motifs drawn from cultural history. Lee’s art has been exhibited in museums and galleries across the U.S. and Korea, and she continues to bridge cultures through exhibitions, educational programs, and her Mina children’s book series inspired by Korean folk traditions.

Press

The Korea Times

http://ny.koreatimes.com/article/20230628/1471146

News Roh

https://gkjournal.org/30/?bmode=view&idx=15558766