Drawing on her background in illustration, Soeun Lee captures atmospheric tableaux of sunny breakfasts and relaxing reading spots in stained glass. A fried egg in a pan, an open book left on a table, or a full cup of coffee next to a plate of toast suggest someone is nearby, just out of the frame.

“I play around with things that hint at a personal presence, like an empty chair, a book, or a mug,” Lee tells Colossal. “I want the viewer to be able to sense the lingering traces of a conversation or thought that occurred just moments before.”

Nodding to the deep shadows of Edward Hopper’s “Chop Suey” or Wayne Thiebaud’s baked confections, Lee’s compositions draw on similar themes and emphasize contrast to create each interior’s mood. “Many of my pieces draw inspiration from classic American diners, which evoke a sense of familiarity and warmth for everyone,” she says, “whether they are newcomers or lifelong residents.”

The notion of comfort runs through much of Lee’s work, especially through the subtopic of food. Stacks of pancakes or toast are lit by the morning sun through nearby windows or an open refrigerator illuminates its contents. This play on light continues by way of the medium itself, activated by the sun shining through the panes to brighten vibrant colors.

“Many of my designs cast long shadows, evoking the time of day, whether it’s the very early morning light or the warm glow of sunset,” she says. “I choose the colors to reflect that mood. Early mornings evoke a sense of hope and the promise of a new day, while shadows from a sunset remind me to find down, reflect, and find rest.”

Lee is currently working on new pieces, which she will make available on her website. Follow Instagram for updates.