While the world was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, Thomas K. Lee worked on a series of cityscape photographs called, ‘Hey Melbourne’, documenting his personal response to life during lockdown.
The limited experience of human contact was heightened during this time when people couldn't travel more than 5km from their homes. Many people looked online to connect with others or found solace in small bubbles with family and loved ones. From a confined vantage point, Thomas gazed upon the physical city from dawn to sunset, and at night, in silent communion with his distant community.
Working within a restricted compositional framework, he created cityscape photographs that speak of isolation and connection in equal measure. He photographed the same view from the same spot over several months from his balcony. While the fundamental composition remained unchanged, each photograph was different because of the changes in light and atmosphere. Through this diaristic process he assigned an emotional quotient to these aesthetic shifts, reflecting his inner experience of isolation and highlighting his desire for connection.
Thomas writes, “The series evokes various emotions, such as pleasure and sorrow. I could see nature and artificial figures in the landscape. I captured this view and photographed it. And I thought, when will I be able to travel around Melbourne once again? When will this pandemic be over? The process of creating the series and the atmospheric perspective of the final photographs allowed my emotions to come alive again. I found gratitude as I looked at Melbourne from afar.”
"We are so small compared to the Universe, the earth, and the mountains, yet we still have to work hard today and every day. On a typical day, I don't see why the things that happen in the world occur. But when I look at my view of Melbourne, I understand these things as my point of view starts to widen. Even when you are struggling, you can think with an open mind and find peace and freedom”, he writes.
This exhibition is presented for the Ballarat International Foto Biennale Open Program.
Thomas K. Lee is a South Korea-born, Melbourne-based photographer. In 2008, he moved from South Korea to Tasmania to work in the Tourism industry. A passionate photographer, he became inspired by the untouched beauty of Tasmania’s ancient forests, alpine ranges, pristine coastline, and serene lakes. In 2014, he moved with his family to Melbourne to pursue his studies and career as a professional photographer. He was awarded an MA from RMIT University in 2020. For more information visit his website: thomaskleephotography.com
This exhibition has been extended until 10 December 2023.
Image: Thomas K. Lee, ‘Hey Melbourne, 04 2022’ 2022, Archival Inkjet Slickrock Metallic Pearl, 90 x 67.5 cm
