Caroline So Jung Lee is a diasporic, neurodivergent Korean artist and filmmaker. She is based in Tsí Tkaròn:to, land of the Dish with One Spoon wampum. She also sometimes works on unceded Coast Salish Territories and in Korea. Several years ago, Caroline made analogue 16mm documentary experimental films that explored participatory documentary, experimental writing and soundscapes. However, she is now exploring what other potential mediums can be used to better access filmmaking, including video.
The Sync Re-Ignite residency has begun a journey of self-exploration as a neurodivergent artist and individual. There is stigma related to disability within arts, film and academic industries and communities. Physical and emotional burnout is often normalized and encouraged within these circles but is a barrier for those with disabilities. The narrative is deeply ableist and prevents diverse and authentic experiences and stories from being shared.
Mentors and peers throughout the residency have been immensely helpful, supportive and eye-opening. Strategies and ideas for navigation were discussed – energy mapping, leadership metaphors and styles, methods of handling communication and conflict. The residency provided a respite to explore and heal one’s art practice considering one’s needs and abilities, shifting from moment to moment. Caroline learned about creative responses to access from other artists. She is deeply grateful for the opportunity to take part in the Sync Re-Ignite residency. Her ideas about her own capabilities and possibilities have shifted and expanded. Disability arts, as she is learning, is a limitless, experimental field.
In the past, Caroline was a Vancouver International Film Festival programmer and mentee, Hot Docs fellow and UnionDocs residency fellow. Her films have screened at various festivals in Canada and the US such as Hot Docs, VIFF, DOXA, Antimatter and Portland IFF. She has also exhibited at Grunt Gallery’s Mount Pleasant Community Art Screen and Deluge Contemporary Art.
She is excited to expand her art practice beyond film in the future, through textile, drawing, sound and painting.
“Sync Re-Ignite strengthened my resolve and persistence to make work as a neurodivergent artist, and has connected me to a like-minded, powerfully compassionate and skilled community.”
