About John G. Lee
I was born in a traditional Chinese family. I have been interested in art as far back as my childhood. My father was a physician with western education. However, in his generation, art was not a subject for boys to study. My parents did not encourage me to pursue art but were pleased to see some of the school art projects I created. During my years in college, graduate school, I did not have any opportunities to pursue my art interest. However, When and where possible, I always made time to visit art museums. I received my Ph.D. degree in biostatistics from the University of Minnesota in 1970. I married my wife, Bo Yeon Chan, When we both were in graduate school there. Later, while we worked and raised our son David, I took evening art classes at local art institutions whenever possible. In that way, I became a "Sunday painter."
After a rewarding career in pharmaceutical research, I have devoted more time to becoming a serious artist. I have studied watercolor with Diane Adams and continue studying portrait and figure drawing and painting with France-Marie Haeger. I participate in a weekly figure study group hosted by Guild member, Michael Wheeldon. I have been a member of the San Diego Watercolor Society for many years and have been in solo exhibitions and their juried shows. I have received first place and jury commendation awards for my work.