The Architecture of Experience
In the quiet intersections where the physical body meets the built environment, the work of Mary Bernadette Lee, known professionally as
mrydette, finds its most profound resonance. A Singaporean artist whose practice is deeply rooted in the principles of phenomenology, Lee does not merely observe the world; she seeks to map the invisible threads connecting human sensation to the spaces we inhabit. Her art serves as a sensory bridge, translating the intangible nuances of
Self, Identity, and Home into tangible, evocative forms. Through her lens, architecture is never just stone or steel, but a vessel for psychological states—an extension of our very being that shapes how we perceive memory and existence. By exploring the relationship between the exterior topography of place and the interior tapestry of the mind, she captures the essence of lived experience, turning fleeting sensations into lasting visual narratives.
Materiality and the Phenomenological Lens
Lee’s artistic journey is marked by a remarkable versatility, a testament to her belief that the medium itself informs the meaning of the message. Her technical repertoire spans a vast landscape, allowing her to navigate the complex dialectics between the physiological and the psychological through various tactile expressions:
- The intimate, grounded textures of clay sculptures and textile installations;
- The rhythmic, graphic precision of linocut and woodcut prints;
- The fluid, expressive potential of ink, graphite, and acrylic painting;
- The delicate, narrative-driven beauty of illustrations and publications.
This multidisciplinary approach is underpinned by a deep academic foundation, having honed her skills at Nanyang Technological University. Her work draws inspiration from the emotive power of artists like
Ernst Ludwig Kirchner and
Henri Matisse, as well as the philosophical depth found in the writings of
Gaston Bachelard. By utilizing both traditional and man-made materials, she creates a dialogue between the natural and the constructed, inviting viewers to contemplate how the textures of our world shape our internal landscapes.
A Legacy of Engagement and Connection
Beyond the solitary act of creation, Lee’s practice is inherently communal and educational. She views art as a vital medium for engagement, often stepping into the roles of educator and co-creator to foster dialogue within the Singaporean art scene. Her collaborations with prestigious institutions such as the
National Gallery Singapore and
Apple Singapore highlight her commitment to making art accessible and participatory. Whether through large-scale installations at venues like
The Substation or through her work as an adjunct lecturer at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Lee seeks to bridge the gap between the artist and the public. Her exhibitions, which have graced the
Singapore Art Museum and
Objectifs, do more than display objects; they create spaces for collective memory, encouraging audiences to explore their own connections to community, space, and the enduring power of human expression.
