In Then and Now, Bibiana depicts compositions of spherical circles of variable dimensions that intersect with each other in a dynamic manner. Bibiana filled the circles with classic Batik motifs that are profused with meanings and symbolism; such as Parang, Gunung Ringgit, and Kawung. The Kawung motif is associated with perfection, purity, and chastity, yet in the contemporary interpretation, the meaning of Kawung has shifted. When catching a glance at the Kawung pattern, it seems as if it resembles stylized coffee beans, and coffee has been associated with consumerist lifestyle, particularly among the youths of today who enjoy going to cafes for coffees, simply for entertainment. Hanging out at a cafes has also become the heart of modern urban culture, the way it offers a comfortable, relaxed, and enjoyable environment for young people to work. This new approach of labor is what differentiates the younger Peranakan generation with the previous Peranakan people.

Previously, the people of Peranakan were associated with cultural ethos; hardworking, resilient, frugal living, discipline, and self-reliance, but after a shift in the cultural and social dynamic, the values and perceptions of Peranakan went under transformation as well. For example, with the working and cultural ethos in today’s digital era, where the action of working/labor can take place just about anywhere else-namely at a cafe- and at any given time, not in a confined space of cubicles, offices, and buildings with a constraining working hours, as long as the target is meet.

This process of evolution is depicted by Bibi through the illustrations of spheres or circles- a metaphor for the evolution process of a certain group, ethnicity, or race that never goes out, always evolving through the ages. In this work that incorporates AR technology, Bibiana invites viewers to play with the spheres, where viewers can bounce the spheres to keep it afloat and be in one with the painting. The act of keeping the spheres afloat in order to stop it from falling symbolizes the struggle of maintaining welfare, prosperity and the communal bond of Peranakan.

Bibiana Lee practices with a plethora of materials and techniques which are infused by personal observations and experiences and in-depth research. She creates art that is a reflection of the real world, a product of its context in her perspective, at times giving voices to those who have been silent, to incite a more critical consciousness of what is happening around us.

Minority discrimination, injustice, repression, political, identity, gender, as well as socio-economic and globalization issues are expressed through her 2 as well as 3-dimensional, interactive and video works , often incorporating text or words over an array of media.