Kok Wan Lee has been a staple in the local art scene over the past 15 years. His modus operandi? To offer art enthusiasts something interesting and different.

His latest exhibit, Bermuda Trace, is no exception. The collection of 25 works opens Friday evening at the Rick Faries Gallery at Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art, and runs until September 24.

Q: What’s the inspiration behind your latest exhibit?

A: I wanted to portray a body of artworks about Bermuda’s endless encounters with storms. The series reflects the life cycle of eternity. By applying expressive charcoal marks and chiaroscuro (the use of strong contrasts between light and dark), I try to suggest a trace of life and death.

Q: In the past you’ve used oil pastel and charcoal on paper. What medium are you working with this time? What was that creating process like?

A: Well, this collection is fully in charcoal on water colour paper and local newsprints. The large pieces are on watercolour paper 30” x 38”. I chose to use bay grape, pampas grass, fern and dried leaves as a subject matter. The small series is on newsprint 11” x 14” [for that one I choose] Bermuda cider. I think [these plants] play a very important role as part of the Bermuda vegetation. Each of them tells a story of expression, hope and of life in itself. The whole journey of the series is to apply expressive lines, finger marks, smudging, lifting and drawing by eraser.

Q: How many pieces are in this collection? How long did it take you to create this collection of works from start to finish?

A: There are 13 large pieces and 12 small pieces in total. Frankly, I don’t time my work. Once I take up an idea I won’t compromise. I could complete a small work in minutes if my idea is positive.

Q: Do you have any favourite pieces in the exhibit? Why does that particular piece speak most to you?

A: I don’t have any preference of pieces in this series. [I always want to] be sure [the collection is comprised of] a strong body of works which enhance and complement each other.

Q: What do you hope people get from seeing these works? Is there a particular feeling you would like people to leave with?

A: Art is a very subjective topic. Like when we go to Starbucks, why do we need so many types of coffee? [Because everyone likes something different.] My hope is that the viewer could see my point of view, understand the idea and see its possibilities.