What if a piece of forgotten marble, left to gather dust in the corner of a classroom, could spark an entire artistic journey? For Taiwanese artist Tim Lee (LEE YAO CHENG, b.1993), that’s exactly what happened. What began as a childhood habit of collecting stones has now transformed into a career that’s catching international attention—from Taipei to Busan to Dubai.

Lee’s signature concept, “Phototaxis”—the natural instinct to move toward light—runs through every piece he creates. Using marble from Taiwan, he chisels away to reveal its intricate veins, fills gaps with epoxy, then polishes the surface until light gleams through like hidden fire. His art doesn’t just look beautiful—it feels like a metaphor for survival in an uncertain world.

“Life often feels like walking through a cave with no clear end,” Lee reflects. “But even in that darkness, light—whether from family, friends, or strangers—guides us forward.”

That philosophy is at the core of his sculptures. Each figure seems to flicker with fleeting vulnerability, yet radiates resilience. The light in his works isn’t just physical—it’s symbolic, an inner glow born from encouragement and connection.

Now, Lee’s creations are making waves far beyond Taiwan. His works have appeared in major art fairs like ART BUSAN 2025 and World Art Dubai 2025, standing alongside international names. What sets him apart is not only his technical mastery but the way he transforms stone—a material often seen as cold and lifeless—into something intimate, emotional, and alive.

For young audiences navigating an uncertain world, Lee’s art resonates deeply. It’s not just about marble and light—it’s about choosing to keep moving forward, even when everything feels like a mountain too steep or a tunnel too dark.

So, next time you come across a forgotten stone on the ground, think twice. It might just be the start of a story waiting to shine.