Media artist Kim A-young has been named the recipient of the 2025 LG Guggenheim Award, making her the first Korean artist to receive the honor.
The award is part of the LG Guggenheim Art & Technology Initiative, a five-year partnership between LG and the Guggenheim Museum that celebrates artists working at the intersection of art and technology. Each year, the award honors one outstanding artist, recognizing their contributions to expanding the boundaries of digital art. Past recipients include Stephanie Dinkins (2023) and Shu Lea Cheang (2024).
Like her predecessors, Kim integrates technology as a core element of artistic expression, rather than merely using it as a tool. Her work is distinguished by scenarios created through conversations with generative AI, highlighting the evolving relationship between humans and artificial intelligence.
Recognized for her innovative fusion of cutting-edge technology and traditional artistic mediums, Kim’s work explores contemporary issues through AI, VR, game engines, live simulation, performance and sculpture. She actively advocates for "AI literacy," emphasizing the importance of a creative and autonomous approach to AI use.
Her notable works include the “Delivery Dancer” series, which envisions a futuristic Seoul where female riders navigate a world shaped by AI. The 2022 piece, “Delivery Dancer’s Sphere,” employs game engines, LiDAR scanning and 3D modeling to critique modern AI dependence. Its 2024 sequel, “Delivery Dancer’s Line: Inverse,” incorporates generative AI visuals and sundial sculptures to challenge Western-centric perceptions of time.
"Kim A-young's work merges traditional and emerging technologies, offering transformative perspectives on humanity’s evolving relationship with the digital world,” the international jury stated. “Through a bold yet meticulous approach, she raises critical questions about the ethical and emotional impact of technology, redefining the artist’s role in shaping new dialogues between art and innovation.”
Expressing her gratitude, Kim said, “Artists can use technology to uncover its potential and tell meaningful stories about its impact on society. I deeply appreciate LG and the Guggenheim Museum for supporting artists who continue these artistic discourses.”
Kim’s achievement will be celebrated at a special event at the Guggenheim Museum in New York on May 8, 2025. Additionally, she will participate in a public program later this year, where she will engage with audiences to discuss her artistic vision and the evolving relationship between art and technology.
By Chung Hye-lim (hyelimchung@heraldcorp.com)
