mason james lee
Mason James Lee is an artist and educator whose work is rooted in environmentalism and cultural preservation, highlighting the intricate link between the two. Of Fijian and Chinese descent, Mason’s heritage deeply informs his artistic vision, blending the natural beauty of his homeland with the urgency of contemporary global challenges.
Currently the Artist in Residence at the University of Fiji, Mason teaches art and has recently opened a new gallery to at the institution to provide artists with a bold platform to share their realities, cultural values and environmental stewardship. A former member of the Red Wave Collective, a group of Pacific artists convened by the late Tongan anthropologist Epeli Hau'ofa at the Oceania Centre for Arts and Culture, Mason draws on the mission of Hau'ofa to create a common Pacific identity for the survival of the people.
Mason’s practice involves the use of natural materials—fallen trees, mined stones, and pigments reclaimed from the earth—as a means of storytelling. He also incorporates materials common to contemporary art, such as acrylic paints, blending traditional and modern approaches to create works that resonate across cultures and eras. His work reflects on the consequences of environmental degradation while celebrating the resilience of cultural traditions. Through his art, Mason creates immersive spaces that transport viewers and provoke contemplation about the shared future of humanity and the planet.
To learn more about Mason's work please contact Mary Jane.