Lee Gil Rae

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About the artwork

This piece carries a more structured composition, where the branching follows a clear directional flow. There is a sense of order embedded within its form, giving it an almost architectural quality. The copper pipes align in a way that feels intentional and precise, emphasizing construction over spontaneity. Yet within this structure, organic rhythms persist. The sculpture reflects a controlled interpretation of nature - one shaped by design rather than chance. It speaks to the way natural forms are increasingly curated within urban environments, balancing aesthetic harmony with conceptual depth.

About the artist

For decades, Lee Gil Rae has used nature as his muse and crafted sculptures from steel and copper pipes. In his persistent need to create organic forms Lee Gil-Rae takes it one step further in creating man-made nature. His works consist of surreal, leafless forests that one can meander into, with spiralling branches that are unnatural in structure but organic in aesthetic. These draw the viewer in to witness the intricate exteriors that mimic the curves and notches of aged tree bark. His sprawling branches fan out and are tipped with wisps of copper representing the needles of the pine trees, in true homage to Mother Nature. With rapid deforestation, Lee Gil-Rae's trees narrate the artificial nature that city dwellers so closely identify with. The man-made and constructed simulation of nature is apparent in all towns and cities. Nature is removed and confined to make room for the ever-expanding population.