Sean Lee

1st Prize Winner

Instagram: @s.lee_art

Artwork Title: My Pantry Essentials

Artwork Medium: Oil on canvas board

Year Created: 2025

Artwork Description:

I created a composition on my kitchen bench using the sauces and condiments. From left to right, they are - Shaoxing wine, kecap manis, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and Lao Gan Ma chilli oil. I painted this wet-on-wet on canvas board primed with white gesso mixed with burnt sienna.

Artist Statement:

These are sauces and condiments from my pantry that I love. I was born and raised in Sydney, Australia, to Chinese parents who migrated from Malaysia and Taiwan. Although I find it difficult sometimes to engage and connect with aspects of my ethnic background, I appreciate how my upbringing has shaped my tastes and identity.

Artist Bio:

Sean is an emerging oil painter based in Sydney. He started painting in 2024, learning theory, techniques and methods from textbooks and the generous and skilled artists he finds online. He enjoys painting still life primarily but is still exploring different styles and subject matter.

Judges Feedback:

"With so many strong contenders, the decision was not easy, but awarding the Eckersley’s Art Prize to Sean Lees was unanimous. His work impressed us with its simplicity in revealing character, a deep understanding of self, and a playful navigation of cultural differences. It shows a refined material sensitivity combined with honesty and depth, making it a truly deserving winner." — Natalie O'Connor

Private Awards Ceremony