Reflections: A 2023 Roundup of Opportunities and Memories
Looking back at 2023, I am filled with thankfulness for the artistic achievements and meaningful experiences that influenced this year.
Debut Solo Art Exhibition: A Personal Milestone (April 2023)
The first few months of 2023 were “slow” as I quietly prepared for the month of April - a pivotal moment in my artistic journey as I curated and presented my first solo art exhibition. As a relative newbie to printmaking (I began my printmaking journey in 2021), I’m blown away by the response to my art and surprisingly the reaction to my framing choices. Each piece is a moment in time and collectively they are part of the overall journey of a story (yours/mine) that I want to share.
Thanks to Belfast Print Workshop for allowing me to showcase my art (and paint the wall green!).
Global Recognition: Group Shows Across The Continent
“When one door closes, another opens” - This phrase is a constant reminder to myself to not be disheartened when things don’t work out. There were a few national exhibitions my work was rejected from, however, international opportunities arose in the latter half of the year. I was thrilled my artwork was accepted into group shows across the globe. It was a dream come true, adding a global dimension to my art CV. From the vibrant art scene in Australia to the cultural landscapes of Japan, the picturesque settings of Wales, and the cosmopolitan backdrop of London, my art found its place on diverse stages and I’m very grateful to the organiser’s for the opportunities.
Below are my selected work chosen for each exhibition.
Luxembourg National Library, Iconography Collection (June 2023)
In the month of June 2023, an exhibition titled “SCHENGEN”, organised by Sylvie Karier, brings together artists from different countries with their different approaches, artistic expressions and techniques. After the exhibition in Valentiny Foundation, Remerschen in Luxembourg, all artwork is now stored in Luxembourg National Library’s Permanent Art Collection.
My piece shown in the bottom right image titled “Searching Beyond The Border” is a gold screenprint on black paper.
https://www.astakulikauskaite.com/blog/exhibition-schengen
https://www.mywort.lu/en/mywort/remerschen/event/schengen-exposition-collective-64705863de135b923636abf6
Awagami International Mini Print Exhibition 2023, Japan
“AIMPE (Awagami International Mini Print Exhibition) was first held in 2013 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of The Hall of Awa Japanese Handmade Paper, and this year marks the sixth biennial exhibition.
The exhibition is held at The Hall of Awa Japanese Handmade Paper and at the "Inbe Art Space," a renovated former factory site. We hope that by holding this exhibition under the theme of "Using Washi," we can globalize handmade washi, which is rooted in traditional Japanese culture, and by providing an opportunity for artists to present their work, we can help to further promote the use of washi in printmaking.” – Awagami Factory
All artwork on display showcased a wide range of print medium and all on Awagami’s Washi Paper. My silkscreen print is a silkscreen print of a hand drawn illustration of a tree by the river, shown in top right image.
Print International 2023, Ty Pawb, Wales
2023 marked the 10th anniversary of Ty Pawb’s biennial print exhibition. Showcasing over 100 artworks from members of the Printing in Swiss Collection, Aberystwyth Printmakers, Belfast Print Workshop, Glasgow Print Studio and Kip Gresham Editions (Print Studio Cambridge).
It includes ‘Ayeen’ Sarah Lee’s etching “By The River” in a gold ornate frame.
https://www.typawb.wales/programme/print-international-2023/
Print Exchange 2023: Flora + Fauna, Australia
Sally Caston initiated a global print exchange connecting artists through print media to respond to the theme “Flora and Fauna”. “Searching” is a black and gold silkscreen print by (Ayeen) Sarah Lee responding to this theme and was exhibited in South Australia in October 2023.
Royal Society of Painter-Printmakers “Small But Mighty” Exhibition 2023, London
Artist Jonny Hannah was the special guest curator of the “Small But Mighty” exhibition, located at Bankside Gallery London, established by the Royal Society of Painter-Printmakers (RE). It features artwork in all forms of printmaking medium - from intaglio, relief, digital, screenprint, letterpress and embossing. This exhibition demonstrates the mighty impact of small scale work.
(Ayeen) Sarah Lee-Byrne’s artwork titled “Buttercup” is a 3cm diameter copper plate etching in a 6 inch x 6 inch frame.
Independant Businesses in Northern Ireland
Heartfelt thanks to the owners who trusted in my artwork to stock in their stores. You can find some of my work in the beautiful garden grounds of Ballyreagh House in Antrim, a spectacular plant store (with sea view!) The Little Shop of Plants in Newcastle, the wonderful community led space run by two mighty female entrepreneurs, The Workshop in Ballynahinch, who also allowed me to adorn my art on their walls during the month of November 2023, and the eclectic treasure cove, art and antique store, The Ink Jar based in Newry. Thank you!
Supporting Local Makers
Throughout the year, you will find me face-to-face showcasing and selling my artwork direct to you at various markets across Northern Ireland. These were more than market places, they were meeting grounds where I had the pleasure of sharing my art practice with new customers and discussing my printmaking techniques with avid collectors.
A massive thanks to Cohen & Co, Fine & Dandy, Little Fox Events, Kubo Belfast, Mount Palomar, Vault Studios, Christmas In The Barn and Babble Marketing for selecting me to be part of your events. The amount of hard work that goes in to putting on each event is outstanding and I’m very grateful to be part of them.
Shopping locally and buying directly from makers not only ensures unique, handcrafted products but also nurtures our community. This direct support fuels the passion and dedication behind each item made. Additionally, it contributes to the local economy, fostering a cycle of prosperity within our community. By choosing small businesses, you become a vital part of sustaining diverse, independent enterprises and enriching the character of our neighbourhood.
Embracing Vintage & Antique Frames: A Touch of Nostalgia
To my valued customers who have followed my art journey, thank you for appreciating my art and embracing the appreciation I hold for vintage and antique frames. Each frame is not just a border but a vessel carrying a piece of history, adding layers of depth and meaning to the art you've welcomed into your lives.
Highlight of the Year: Creating A New Chapter
Lastly, the biggest highlight of 2023, although personal but definitely has huge influence in my art practice, was marrying my biggest supporter and best friend. For our wedding, we made a decision to do as much as we can and to use local suppliers where possible. We designed and screenprinted our wedding invitations and stationery, collected stoneware bottles and dried flowers for months to make our own decorations and we even got to design and hand make our own wedding rings (with help from Tanya Ireland)! It was an incredible experience, making it an incredible year.
If you’d like to see more, here is a snapshot of our wedding day, thanks to Treasure Box Photography for capturing these moments:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TLbpkirJHgc
Thanks to our friends and family who helped us out in different areas of the wedding, and thanks to wedding suppliers who made our day so special. Below are some of the local supplier’s we absolutely loved and appreciated their professional service:
Venue: Orange Tree House
Photographer: Treasure Box Photography
Wedding Ring Workshop: Tanya Ireland
Florist: Lisabella Flowers
Pianist: Reverie Music
Transport: Logybear VW Campervan Hire
Bride’s Accessories: Embellished Beach
Groom’s Bow Tie: Belfast Bow Company
Decorations: The Ink Jar
Bride’s Dress: ASOS
Bride’s Chinese Dress & Decorations: Hong Kong
Makeup: Bride’s Friend
Groom’s Suit: Next
Cake: Bride’s Mother
Hair: Bride’s Brother
Wedding Stationery: Bride & Groom
Happy New Year!
And that’s it for 2023, and onto 2024… I’m looking forward to more outdoor adventures (inspiration to my art), learning new skills (have much to learn) and simply enjoying the process of it all. Thank you again for following my art journey! New art coming soon! And hopefully see some of you in the new year!
Sarah
