‘I have a John Ahearn female bust in our powder room’: Miyoung Lee on startling her house guests

While back-packing in Czechoslovakia, Miyoung Lee started her art collection using travellers’ cheques David Laurence Photography
Miyoung Lee, a vice chair of the Whitney Museum of American Art and member of the Studio Museum in Harlem’s acquisitions committee, is an exceptionally plugged-in collector. She and her husband, Neil Simpkins, have helped the Whitney acquire works by the sought-after painters Avery Singer, Mernet Larsen and Amy Sillman, and the renowned collage artist Deborah Roberts; and they were major supporters of the museum’s recent show of Ruth Asawa’s works on paper. She is also a devoted supporter of Korean and Korean American artists, as evidenced by her latest acquisitions, which she recently discussed with The Art Newspaper.
The Art Newspaper: What was the first work you ever bought?
Miyoung Lee: After college, I was back-packing in Czechoslovakia (so you know how long ago). I was taken by a beautiful circus image à la Chagall. It was by a female painter, and I used American Express travellers’ cheques. (Do they still exist?) I have the painting in storage.
Miyoung Lee plans to visit Tina Kim Gallery’s Suki Seokyeong Kang show, which includes Mountain—Autumn #21-01 (2020-21) Sangtae Kim, Courtesy Studio Suki Seokyeong Kang
What was the most recent work you bought?
I have been obsessed by Lotus Laurie Kang’s work. She seems to be one of the breakout stars in the Whitney Biennial. I purchased a similar work of hers from Commonwealth and Council during this year’s Frieze Los Angeles. Right after that, I purchased a painting of another Korean American artist, Hanna Hur. She creates beautiful abstract paintings in an Op art vein. I only found out later that the two women are identical twins!
How quickly do you decide to buy a work of art?
I rarely buy on impulse. Usually, I have been looking at an artist for a while before I decide. So, if I buy a piece fairly quickly at an art fair, it may appear like a rapid decision but it’s usually the culmination of a lot of looking before.
What do you regret not buying when you had the chance?
An early Simone Leigh porcelain work. I was too much of a coward to commit because of its fragility; the head was made of delicate flowers, and we had young kids at the time. Now, she’s become a world-renowned artist and I can’t afford similar work.
If you could have any work from any museum, what would it be?
René Magritte’s The Son of Man (1964).
What is the most unusual place you’ve installed a piece?
I have a John Ahearn female bust in our powder room. She’s lifelike and installed to look directly into the mirror. It does give our guests a little startle.
What are you most looking forward to during the fairs and auctions in New York this month?
New York galleries will take advantage of the visitors and put forth some good shows. In particular, I am really looking forward to seeing Suki Seokyeong Kang, one of my favourite living artists; Tina Kim Gallery has a solo presentation of her work. Anyone who saw her exhibition at the Leeum Museum of Art in Seoul last autumn will share my enthusiasm.
What’s your least favourite thing about art fairs?
Less of it now, but the possibility of contracting an illness.
What tip would you give to someone visiting New York during Frieze for the first time?
Comfortable shoes, water bottle, energy bar. If you can, go during the first two days, but it’s not essential to go during the first few hours.
Where do you like to eat and drink in or near Chelsea and Hudson Yards?
If you need more art, go down the High Line, check out the Whitney Biennial and have a snack at Frenchette—an outpost of the hip restaurant inside the Whitney.

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