Based in Sydney, Thienny Lee has a distinguished career spanning roles as an artist, art historian, gallerist, and, most recently, art therapist. A near terminal illness became a turning point for Thienny, inspiring her to begin a renewed chapter, exploring the restorative and healing properties of visual arts through art therapy. Her approach to art therapy involves using the process of creating art to improve mental health and to recuperate emotional wellbeing.  

Art Milieu

As an art therapist, Thienny obtained her Diploma in Creative Arts and Health from the University of Tasmania to kick start her art therapy career. Her latest project including working with the Ku-ring-gai Council and volunteer in aged-care.

As the founding director of Thienny Lee Gallery in Edgecliff (2017 – 2025), Thienny held dynamic contemporary exhibitions, celebrating innovation and excellence as well as providing platforms for career advancement to many emerging and established artists.

As an art historian Thienny specialises in Asian Art history, having an MA in Asian Art and Archeology from SOAS (School of Oriental and African Studies), University of London and was awarded a PhD for her pioneering research on the Peranakan Batik by the University of Sydney. She was a frequent speaker at SOAS, University of Sydney and various venues in Australia in topics pertaining to Asian Art and Textile.

As an artist, her artwork has been exhibited and collected internationally.

Qualifications

Diploma in Creative Arts and Health

PhD

MA in Asian Art History and Archaeology