Powerlunching with Khan Lee
Khan is an artist, artist assistant, my alley neighbour, and all-around lovely person. (More importantly, he's also done some modelling.) He and I planned to powerlunch together a few weeks ago after discovering we were both home a lot. We decided it was easier to get chicken wings at Phnom Penh than to get takeout. So we did.
What do you do?
Part time artist.
Why are you able to meet me for lunch?
Because I spend lots of time at my home studio these days.
What have you been doing at home with your time off?
Being a part time artist, and weed killer.
You said you haven't eaten lunch in weeks. I don't believe that. Were you serious?
Seriously, I am never serious. I have been skipping eating regularly lately but forgot why.
Now this is a fashion blog, and I know you've done some modelling. Is this why you're not eating lunch? Because you're anorexic?
Haha, eating is just overrated sometimes.
If we had to order a second meal at Phnom Penh without repeating dishes, what would it be? [We ordered chicken wings, pea tips, butter beef and rice.]
Green papaya salad.
Also, you are Korean and I love Korean food. What are the best Korean restaurants in the city? Can we go?!
We should go have Korean Chinese, it will be an experience. My favourite Korean Restaurant has closed down some time ago. They only served bacon barbecue and had crazy owner.
You were telling me a lot about weeds, because you have been spending much time in your backyard. What are your favourite/least favourite plants and why?
All pretty weeds are basically evil, Morning Glory being the worst. I actually love them all but I kill them any way.
Do you grow food in your garden?
My housemates grow food. I am a slow learner and only interested in understanding weeds this season.
Tell me about your experience as a model.
I think it was my stupid moustache... I think I am retired already.
Can I be a model? How do I get modelling gigs?
Grow moustache.
Do you wear fancy men's clothes?
Only when I get them for free.
What's your favourite outfit for working at home in?
Greasy coveralls.
Transitional lenses. Did they change your life?
Yes, totally. I am a different person.
Who is your favourite style icon in Strathcona?
Mr. Tinfoil Man. I have not seen him for years by now but he was so ahead of his time. You'll understand what I mean after 2017.
What do you love or hate about this neighbourhood?
I like my alley way, and its people. I think there should be more public drinking in the alley way though.
What kind of art work do you make? Where was your last show?
I make video and sculpture and there is Instant Coffee. My show was at Centre A last year. I heard it was popular. I hope my work shows more than my handsomeness.
What would your dream art project be if you had an unlimited budget?
I want make a musical composition for cars, which involves miles of pavement.
One last thing: I noticed we both have gold teeth. Do you think this makes us more valuable as collateral to pirates?
That is why I paint it white with whiteout when swimming in ocean. But you could also use it as collateral to get out of tough situations if you are smart.
Wearing black short sleeve button up shirt; black pants; modified black dayton boots; Khan wisdom: "everything looks black anyway when you wear transitional lenses"
