Won Lee (1946–2021) was a Korean-born Canadian sculptor whose work centered on the human figure. He drew and modeled in clay, often developing figurative forms toward abstraction before firing them in his Toronto studio. He also traveled to China and Mexico to cast some of his sculptures in bronze.

Lee was a prolific artist. Although he contracted polio while growing up in Korea, he approached physically demanding work with remarkable energy. He could build a two-meter-high clay figure with little assistance, working directly and decisively from his models. His expressive approach places him in a tradition of figurative sculpture that includes Reuben Nakian and Alberto Giacometti.

Texture, gesture, and shifts in scale and proportion give Lee’s figures their presence. The faceted surfaces retain the immediacy of his touch and reveal his responsiveness to the clay. Originally a figurative painter, Lee brought a painter’s sensitivity to form and movement into his sculpture.

Lee earned a B.F.A. from Pepperdine University and an M.F.A. from Johnson State College. He also attended the Otis Art Institute. His sculptures were featured in publications including Sculpture magazine, and had a rich list of solo exhibitions around the world and also lectured internationally on postmodern art theory and practice. His body of work did continue to engage viewers through its vitality and expressive power.