The graduate of Limkokwing University said she had no regrets about her decision to switch careers to become a painter 10 years ago.

“After leaving my job as a fashion designer in 2014, I started as an airbrush painter,” she told Bernama, saying she was inspired to try helmet painting after watching a YouTube video of a man who paints cars using the airbrush technique.

Her vibrant, detailed and meticulous artwork of various themes and patterns, including custom designs, quickly came into demand. “I consider myself very lucky because it turned out to be a success,” she said.

Today, Lee works from her private studios in Kampung Cina, Kelantan, and Bandar Mahkota Cheras in Selangor. In addition to helmets, she also paints on guitars.

Elaborating on the process, Lee said she firstly discusses with customers about their design and colour preferences, before preparing a draft of the design that will be painted on the helmet.

“As for the helmet itself, it’s better if it’s white with no damage. I can get the painting done in about two weeks for simple designs. For more elaborate and intricate ones, it can take more than two months.”

The younger of two siblings said the process of spraying the paint must be done carefully. This includes wearing gloves to avoid leaving fingermarks on the helmet, which would affect the quality of the pattern and colour produced.

Popular patterns, Lee said, include animal themes such as Koi fish, monkeys and dragons. Meanwhile, racing aficionados tend to prefer abstract designs.

Prices range from RM1,800 all the way to RM7,000, depending on the complexity of the work: the more complicated it is, the more it will cost.

She shared that she has also received requests from overseas customers, including from Singapore, Hong Kong, France, Australia and the US. According to Lee, her clientele includes “royalty”.

Learn more about Lee’s work via her website, as well as on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.