Darae Lee

Hello, my name is Darae Lee, an artist who paints the small moments of happiness found in everyday life.

For a long time, I lived at a fast pace, always chasing the next goal — art school entrance exams, university, employment. I believed that once I achieved each milestone, happiness would finally follow. I was so focused on moving forward that I rarely allowed myself to pause.

One day, while walking home after what I thought was another productive day, I suddenly noticed the strong scent of grass in the air. The leaves and flower petals swaying in the wind looked as if they were dancing, and it felt like nature was gently telling me, “This is happiness.” In that moment, I was reminded of my childhood, when I used to play freely with nature and insects, feeling joy for no particular reason at all. That realization made me aware of how many small but meaningful moments of happiness I had been overlooking.
A turtle appears in every one of my works. The turtle represents me — moving slowly but steadily forward, sometimes carrying emotional weight, yet continuing on its path. Traditionally, turtles symbolize longevity and good fortune. However, my interpretation of these meanings is slightly different. To me, longevity means a life ...

Ewha Womans University, BFA in Sculpture
Seoul, Korea

Sunhwa Arts High School, Department of Western Painting
Seoul, Korea

Sunhwa Arts Middle School
Seoul, Korea

2026
The Way We Stay
Artmoon Gallery, Seoul, Korea
(January 25 – March 6, 2026)

2025
SAF Exhibition
Biseonjae Gallery, M ART CENTER, Seoul, Korea

Herald X Inspired Art Fair
SETEC, Seoul, Korea

2015
Sound of Shout
Youth Invitational Exhibition in collaboration with Seoul Museum of Art
TOY REPUBLIC, Seoul, Korea

2014
The 1st “Discovery” Young Artist Invitational Exhibition
P PLUS ART CENTER, Seoul, Korea

2013
Permanent Installation, Bridge of Life
Samsung Life Insurance, Hangang Bridge, Seoul, Korea