Q&A with Rhys Lee
We’re thrilled to announce an exciting new collaboration between Format and celebrated Australian artist Rhys Lee. Known for his bold, instinctive style and emotionally charged works, Rhys is releasing a limited edition of 50 prints exclusively through Format - each one hand-signed by the artist himself.
This striking new work revisits a subject first painted over two decades ago, reimagined through the lens of time, texture and intuition. As Rhys puts it, “the timing felt right” - and the result is a powerful continuation of a story that’s been quietly waiting to resurface.
In this Q&A, Rhys shares the evolution of his visual language, the influence of his children and community, and the inspiration behind this new print edition.
Q. Your style is instantly recognisable - bold, raw, and textural. Has that always been your approach, or has it evolved over time?
RL My style has always been bold & raw. I think it comes from the energy of anxiety. The desperation to make marks, to be exhausted by the process.
The textural element came once I was proficient with oil paint.. the texture often gives the work more life & more to look at.
Q. From murals to solo exhibitions to book releases, your work has moved across so many formats. What’s remained consistent for you through all that change?
RL I see it as growth & evolution.. the desire to try new things. It’s exciting to constantly switch between different mediums; bronze, pastel, paint, expansive installations & print.
What remains constant is the challenge to do more & experiment. Oil painting & drawing have been the consistent thread; figuration has been the main narrative over the years.
Q. Outside of painting, are there other creative outlets or artists that inspire or recharge you?
RL My kids are inspiring. My daughter Mina has rescued a few of my paintings with her strokes of genius. Seeing friends & contemporaries do great things & achieve personal successes is always inspiring.
Q. Can you tell us a bit about the piece you created for Format? What drew you to this subject?
RL I remember seeing an image of a boxer in a magazine in 2002. A young amateur fighter from South America. I made 2 small paintings from the image & included them in a show that year. I have thought about those 2 paintings over the years & have always wanted to revisit this subject. They are fun to paint & seem to come together quite quickly & successfully.
Q. What made you want to release a limited edition of this work, and why now?
RL I have wanted to make a small edition of Giclee prints for a long time. I finally found the rite moment & subject. Sometimes ideas & a project take a while to resonate & get the timing rite. It’s a pleasure & a privilege for me to be working with the exceptional team at Format to make this edition.
Q. There’s something intimate about a hand-signed artwork. What does that gesture mean to you, especially with this new release?
RL A hand-signed artwork is an authentication... whether it’s an eligible scribble or an obvious initial, it’s important to have this present on any artwork. A seal of approval, a handshake & a hug.. hello & goodbye!
Q. What does your painting process actually look like day to day? Are you someone who plans, or are you more instinctive in the moment?
RL Sometimes I have a vivid idea about painting… Other times, I’m open to intuition. Ideas & inspiration usually come quickly & in abundance. Sometimes, even forcing the moment can lead to a good outcome. Sometimes, to lean on a bad start is better than no start.
Q. Colour and texture play a huge role in your work. How do you build that intensity - is it intuitive, or something you plan for?
RL Patience is probably more important than planning. Being receptive to the marks & colours in front of you. Plans often go out the window, patience is the key to resolution & being happy. Giving the process time to run its course is always helpful, even if it means painting over a picture 2 years later to get the best result.
Q. What’s next for you? Any themes or directions you’re itching to explore?
RL I never really know what’s next. Shows & more shows.. more figuration & more abstraction. The paint will let me know what’s next.
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Discover more of Rhys' work at Nicholas Thompson Gallery - Rhys Lee and follow him on Instagram to stay connected - and don’t miss your chance to own a signed edition of this exclusive release, only at Format. Shop online now.