Meet Ju Won Lee | VFX Compositor & Creative

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ju Won Lee and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ju Won, what’s the end goal, career-wise?
My end goal professionally is to continue evolving as a digital compositor and creative professional, contributing to groundbreaking projects in the visual effects industry. I aspire to work on increasingly complex and visually stunning projects that challenge my skills and push the boundaries of what’s possible in storytelling through visual effects.

Ultimately, I hope to become a recognized name in the industry, known for my contributions to both film and television. I want to be a part of projects that not only entertain but also leave a lasting impact on audiences, whether through breathtaking visual effects or compelling storytelling.

As my career progresses, I also aim to mentor and inspire the next generation of artists and digital compositors. Sharing my knowledge and experiences with others who are passionate about this field is a key part of my long-term goals.

In addition to my work in the visual effects industry, I’m excited about the creative endeavors I’m pursuing with my team of talented friends. Our end goal there is to establish our own studio, dedicated to producing high-quality, engaging content that pushes creative boundaries.

Ultimately, I want my career to be a journey of continuous growth, creativity, and collaboration, with the aim of leaving a positive mark on the world of visual effects and creative storytelling.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m proud to be a digital compositor and a member of a creative team, and I’m excited to share more about my journey and my art.

What sets me apart from others in my field is my unique combination of skills and experiences. My background in a completely different academic field before discovering my passion for visual effects has given me a fresh perspective and a diverse skill set. This diversity allows me to approach creative challenges from different angles and think outside the box.

I’m most proud of my ability to adapt and learn quickly. When I decided to pursue visual effects, I had no prior background in art or animation. However, I was determined to make it in this industry. I taught myself many of the necessary technical skills through online tutorials and reading, which was not an easy task. This self-learning journey was challenging, but it has shaped me into a resourceful and resilient artist.

My path to where I am today professionally was far from easy. The creative industry is highly competitive, and breaking into it without a traditional background was a significant challenge. However, I overcame these challenges through dedication, hard work, and the support of mentors and friends in the field.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned along the way is the value of collaboration. Being part of a creative team has allowed me to grow as an artist by drawing on each other’s strengths and expertise. It’s taught me that great work often comes from the synergy of diverse talents working together.

I want the world to know that creativity knows no boundaries. Regardless of your background or where you start, if you’re passionate about a creative pursuit, you can make it happen with determination and a willingness to learn. My story is a testament to the idea that passion and perseverance can lead to a fulfilling career in the creative industry.

As for our brand, I want it to be known for pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in visual effects and creative endeavors. I aim to create art that not only captivates but also inspires others to pursue their creative passions, no matter how unconventional their journey may be.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d want to provide them with a diverse and memorable experience in the Jersey City and New York City area. Here’s my suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Exploring NYC

Morning: Start your day with a quintessential New York experience by getting bagels at Tompkins Square Bagels and take a leisurely walk or rent bikes to explore Central Park, an iconic urban oasis.
Lunch: Enjoy a picnic at Central Park.
Afternoon: Immerse yourself in art and culture at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (the Met), home to a vast and impressive art collection.
Dinner: Relish a delightful Italian dinner at L’Artusi in the charming West Village.
Evening: Take a scenic walk along the Hudson River Park, where you can savor stunning views of the city skyline.

Day 2: NYC Landmarks

Morning: Embark on a ferry adventure to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, two iconic symbols of American history.
Lunch: Satisfy your craving for New York-style pizza at Joe’s Pizza.
Afternoon: Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge for breathtaking views of the cityscape.
Dinner: Treat yourself to an exquisite dining experience at Eleven Madison Park.
Evening: Immerse yourself in the dazzling lights and vibrant atmosphere of Times Square.

Day 3: Chelsea Area

Morning: Begin your day in Chelsea by exploring the world-renowned Whitney Museum of American Art.
Lunch: Indulge in a delightful meal at a charming Chelsea café, such as Cafeteria or Cookshop.
Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene of Chelsea by visiting renowned galleries like Gagosian Gallery and David Zwirner Gallery.
Dinner: Relish a diverse culinary experience at Chelsea Market, where you can sample a variety of cuisines.
Evening: Take a leisurely stroll along the High Line, an elevated park adorned with art installations and lush greenery.

Day 4: Brooklyn Exploration – Part 1

Morning: Dive into the art world at the Brooklyn Museum, celebrated for its extensive art collection.
Lunch: Delight in a casual lunch at Smorgasburg, a food market offering a wide range of culinary delights.
Afternoon: Explore the vibrant street art scene in Bushwick, known for its captivating murals.
Dinner: Savor contemporary American cuisine at Lilia.
Evening: Explore the DUMBO neighborhood, and don’t miss the chance to ride the iconic Jane’s Carousel in Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Day 5: Brooklyn Exploration – Part 2

Morning: Discover the unique shops and boutiques of Williamsburg, a hub of creativity.
Lunch: Satisfy your taste buds with the famous sandwiches at Saltie or enjoy brunch at Egg.
Afternoon: Unwind at East River State Park, where you can enjoy tranquil waterfront views.
Dinner: Experience innovative Caribbean cuisine at Olmsted.
Evening: Explore Williamsburg’s vibrant nightlife, from its bars to live music venues.

Day 6: Cultural Exploration

Morning: Dive into the world of contemporary art at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).
Lunch: Grab a quick and authentic NYC experience by indulging in food truck delights.
Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Chinatown and Little Italy.
Dinner: Feast on dim sum delights at JingFong in the heart of Chinatown.
Evening: Jazz up your night with live music at the intimate Smalls Jazz Club.

Day 7: Lower Manhattan and Jersey City

Morning: Begin your day with a visit to the World Trade Center, where you can explore the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, paying tribute to the events of that fateful day.
Lunch: Head to Eataly Downtown, a vibrant Italian marketplace nearby, for a delectable Italian meal with options ranging from pizza to fresh seafood.
Afternoon: Take the Path train to Hoboken, a lively city with a picturesque waterfront, and explore its unique atmosphere.
Dinner: Dine at Battello, a waterfront restaurant offering breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline.
Evening: Conclude your journey with a leisurely walk along the Hoboken waterfront, enjoying picturesque views of the NYC skyline.

I think this itinerary will provide a blend of iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, delicious cuisine, and natural beauty, offering a well-rounded exploration of the area!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to several individuals and groups who have played instrumental roles in my journey as a visual effects artist and member of a creative team.

First and foremost, I owe a debt of gratitude to my friends who introduced me to the world of visual effects. Without their encouragement and support, I might not have discovered my passion for this field.

My alma mater, the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), deserves a significant portion of the credit for my professional growth. The graduate program in visual effects at SCAD provided me with invaluable resources, knowledge, and connections that helped me secure my first job in the industry. The SCAD community, including professors, fellow students, and alumni, has been a constant source of inspiration and support.

I also want to acknowledge my friends and creative team with whom I pursue my own creative endeavors. Their dedication, talent, and collaboration have allowed us to take on diverse and challenging projects, contributing significantly to my professional development.

Lastly, I’m grateful to the creative community at large, both locally in New York and globally, for their continuous inspiration and the opportunity to learn and grow as an artist.

All of these individuals, organizations, and communities have played pivotal roles in my journey, and I’m incredibly thankful for their contributions to my success.

Website: https://www.leejuwon.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aka_soran/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwonlee94/

Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm14482297/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk