Oozing with Wonder: An Interview with Dan Lam

Known for her visually striking and tactile sculptures, Dan Lam’s work is a vibrant exploration of color, texture and form that sparks a sense of intrigue and fascination.

Cover image: Tyler Baimbridge

Her extraordinary creations, often resembling otherworldly organisms, dripping icicles or blooming coral reefs, are not only a feast for the eyes but also an invitation to touch, feel and engage with art on a sensory level.

In this feature, we delve into the mesmerizing world of Dan Lam, unearthing the inspirations behind her unique aesthetic, her process, and her journey to becoming one of the most talked-about figures in contemporary art.

IG: Can you tell us about the captivating “melting” aesthetics in your sculptures and how you developed this unique style over the years?

Dan: Early on I was drawn to soft sculpture as an art form and found inspiration in the works of artists such as Erwin Wurm and his “fat” series, as well as Claes Oldenburg with his soft food sculptures. Marry that aesthetic with my fascination for non-traditional materials, like polyurethane foam (which I discovered through my research on Lynda Benglis’ work) and you can see how it has informed my work.

Once I started using polyurethane foam, I realized it was incredibly effective at creating the illusion of liquid in motion, something that I had previously experimented with using other materials such as resin, plaster, and various melted plastics. Unfortunately, none of these materials could capture the desired softness and fullness. Capturing motion in a suspended state is important in my work as it allows me to explore the manipulation of perception and reality.

IG: In the past, you’ve mentioned artists such as James Turrell and Olafur Eliason as big influences in your work. They both often use bold and bright colors in their practice, which is also a key facet of your creations. What else about these particular artists inspires you?

Dan: The in-person experience of their work is key. They can imbue spaces and surroundings with emotions, prompting the viewer to reflect on what they see and how they perceive it. The breathtaking moments of awe and wonder I have experienced through their art are incredibly potent. It would bring me immense joy if I could reproduce even a fraction of that effect for the viewers.

IG: You tend to explore contrasting themes such as beauty and discomfort in your work. Can you elaborate on why these themes resonate with you?

Dan: I find myself attracted to seemingly contradictory concepts as I perceive the potential for innovation in the area that connects them. Although these ideas may appear to conflict, they can complement each other. I think this reflects a nuanced view of the world, as I tend to see things in shades of gray rather than in absolutes.

IG: Many of your pieces seem almost otherworldly – we could look at them for hours. Is there a message or emotion you hope to convey to viewers through your work?

Dan: I want to evoke curiosity and wonder in others, just as I feel when I experience my favorite art and installations. I find those emotions to be highly motivating, and I aspire to replicate that sentiment for others. 

IG: The use of non-traditional materials is one of the most fascinating aspects of your sculptures. Can you tell us about your material choices? 

Dan: I’m often drawn to a material because of its physical properties: it’s lightweight, easily shaped, shiny, etc. Other times, it’s a material I stumble upon outside of an art setting, and I’m curious about how to use it for artmaking. I like the idea of learning materials and having that knowledge as a sort of toolbox that’s available as I need it. Sometimes, I’ll play with a material, and I won’t have a use for it at the time, but a year later, it’s the perfect material for a solution. 

IG: How do you see your art evolving in the future? Are there any other mediums or unique materials you’d like to experiment with?

Dan: I can’t see how it will change, but I want to keep pushing the scale. In the same vein, I want to create more installations and environments. And continue to discover new materials, which will inevitably change the work. 

IG: Can you describe a typical day in your studio? How do you set things up for a creative day and navigate the process from an initial idea to a finished piece?

Dan: I’m a night owl, so my day normally starts around 10 am. I go to the gym at noon, make lunch, and head to the studio around 2 pm. If I have calls or meetings, I’ll take all those before 5 pm, and I usually work until 11 pm. My workflow varies depending on the day, sometimes I let my mood guide me, and other times, I prioritize completing tasks within the given timeline. I tackle multiple pieces simultaneously, constantly switching between them to explore and bring out their full potential. I’m in the studio most days, but I also like to keep it flexible and allow for spontaneity. I also ensure I get at least 8 hours of sleep every night to lay the groundwork for my best creative self. 

IG: Your work has gained massive attention on social media. How do you think platforms like Instagram and TikTok have impacted your career as an artist?

Dan: I think Instagram has been pivotal in how my career has unfolded. It has and continues to open so many doors, and it’s connected me to incredible people in and out of the art world. It’s been a significant part of my art practice, and I get a lot of joy from sharing my process and working with others. 

IG: How do you engage with your audience? Do you ever find it overwhelming or do you view them as an integral part of your creative journey?

Dan: I thoroughly enjoy sharing my creative process with my audience. While I remain open with what I share, I’m committed to staying true to my voice and maintaining the integrity of my work. I ensure the work is always first and the content is secondary. It can be overwhelming so I limit my exposure to outside feedback, such as comments on viral videos. I enjoy interacting with my audience the most during gallery openings for my shows. It’s fulfilling to witness their enjoyment and have meaningful conversations with them. 

IG: Can you think of any artists you know who are underappreciated and deserve more recognition for their work? We’d love to hear a little bit about them.

Dan: I love Gracelee Lawrence’s work (@gleeleelawlee on Instagram). She uses 3D printing to create super interesting sculptures combining fruits and body parts. They’re colorful, playful, and very unique. 

IG: What’s next for you? Can you share any upcoming projects or artistic experiments you’re currently working on that your followers can look forward to?

Dan: Yes! I will have a solo exhibition at Hashimoto Contemporary in New York City in December. During Basel, I will also show a large-scale sculpture at Wynwood Walls for Art Week. 

To continue exploring the wonderful world of Dan Lam, take a look at her website, or follow her latest updates on Instagram and TikTok.