Discovering the spectacular in the unspectacular, students Isaiah Baek and Matthew Lee have collaboratively created a new exhibition, Mundane. This collection of creative work is on display at Trinity Western University’s SAMC Gallery this summer.
Peace in letting go
Artist Isaiah Baek shared how a shift in his art practice brought about a new perspective.
“I have been trying to find peace in the person I am today and who I am becoming,” he began. In this inner journey, Baek found comfort in nature and in everyday rhythms. In the simplicity of routine he discovered solace and beauty.
“I have found a great appreciation for the subtle and small moments of each day that make my life normal,” he said.
For Baek, the practice of appreciating small moments is a way of expressing faith in God as well.
“As artists, there is tremendous value in embracing the regular and using our daily routines as inspiration to express uniquely and wonderfully,” Baek reflected. “I’ve found a lot of solace and peace in slowing down and letting go of what cannot be controlled, which I feel is trusting God to bless us and comfort us through subtle beauty that can be found in regularity.”
Inspired by a community of artists
Baek’s artistic style finds freedom in colour field abstraction. He draws inspiration from artists such as Mark Rothko, Lee Ufan, Jules Olitski, and Ellsworth Kelly.
For Baek, abstract art becomes a space for authenticity and growth. “Learning the nuances of abstract art has helped me express myself in an authentic and vulnerable way,” he said.
He hopes viewers will experience a similar comfort and feel free to interpret his art “however they would like.”
The digital world that surrounds us
In contrast to Baek’s reflective pieces, artist Matthew Lee launches into the kaleidoscope of digital media.
“As someone born, raised, trained, and employed in the digital age, I find my experience of reality irrevocably entangled with the virtual substrate of software, computers, and online media,” he explained.
Lee revealed that thematically, his work is influenced by Nam June Paik’s sculptures and video art.
Lee's artwork invites playful introspection. “I hope that this piece encourages viewers to reflect on the reflexive relationship between the physical world we live in and the digital world that we find ourselves increasingly devoting our time, attention, and presence to—and how this relationship can be both heavy and lighthearted at the same time,” he said.
New areas of artistic development
Though distinct in style, Baek and Lee collaborated to explore a shared theme: finding beauty in the ordinary. In the process, each artist learned something new.
Baek grew in his confidence using abstraction to create art that speaks powerfully.
“I have constantly felt that I have needed to prove myself to others, and I felt a need to prove to myself that I have what it takes to create meaningful, abstract art.” By shifting focus from pressure to process, he found freedom in producing the colours, shapes, and textures that express his vision.
Lee, too, overcame creative hurdles. Initially, he found acrylic painting on photo prints “novel and awkward” and experienced several setbacks that required him to restart.
But through mutual support, the two artists gained momentum to complete the exhibition.
“I’m immeasurably pleased with the combined result,” Lee said. “I feel confident that I’ll look back on the process fondly.”
A living collection of artwork
Both students expressed gratitude to TWU faculty, staff, and community members who encouraged them along the way and helped them turn their creative aspirations into reality.
They also invite visitors not only to view the artwork but to participate in it.
As part of the exhibition, guests are encouraged to contribute to a collaborative butterfly wall. Supplies—including oil pastels, pins, and paper—are provided so that anyone can draw and add a butterfly to the display.
About the SAMC Gallery
The SAMC gallery was founded in 2017 and is the main exhibition space for the Department of Art + Design at TWU's School of the Arts, Media + Culture. The gallery is located inside the Langley campus Norma Marion Alloway Library building and is open to the public. Learn more at the SAMC Gallery webpage.
About TWU's School of the Arts, Media, and Culture
Immerse yourself in what you love best, whether it’s visual or performing arts, media, or communication. Grow with others who are just as passionate and exceptional as you. That’s the beauty of learning in community. You’ll find your people here. Learn more at TWU's School of the Arts, Media + Culture.
About Trinity Western University
Founded in 1962, Trinity Western University is a global Christian liberal arts university dedicated to equipping students for life. Uniting faith and reason through Christian teaching and scholarship, TWU is a research institution offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in the humanities and sciences as well as in several professional schools. It has campuses in Canada in Langley, Richmond, and Ottawa. Learn more at www.twu.ca or follow us on Instagram @trinitywestern, Twitter @TrinityWestern, on Facebook and LinkedIn. For media inquiries, please contact: media@twu.ca.