Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonghoon Ahn.
Hi Jonghoon, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I learned computer science in elementary school and excelled in coding, even winning awards in computer programming competitions. Although I initially aspired to become a surgeon in high school, my dreams shifted towards becoming a film director after being inspired by Steven Spielberg and Christopher Nolan’s movies. Consequently, I pursued a major related to film production upon entering university. While creating several short films and studying film theory, I came across Andrei Tarkovsky’s quote, “Film is the sculpting of time.” However, I believe that incorporating both time and space into filmmaking could enhance audience immersion. Wanting to merge my programming skills with visual arts, I initially used mainstream mediums like VR and AR, gradually developing my own technology to create interactive works involving body movements, facial expressions, sound, and other intriguing elements.
This journey allowed me to explore the realm of interactive media art, and people around me began to refer to me as a new media artist. My works have been showcased in renowned exhibition venues such as the National Asian Cultural Center in Korea, as well as various museums and shopping malls. Currently, I am pursuing a master’s degree at the California Institute of the Arts, and my films have been selected in international film festivals, gaining recognition in Korean magazines. I am actively engaged in various artistic endeavors and exhibitions, showcasing my passion for interactive media art.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In the process of pursuing art, I have encountered many narcissistic individuals. Those with low self-esteem often attempt to diminish the evaluation of others’ works while striving to highlight themselves. However, through such experiences, I have been able to connect with kind-hearted and talented individuals, contributing to my personal growth. Engaging in art also frequently leads to distancing from family, as the challenging path of earning money and the difficulties involved are often challenging for them to comprehend. Steven Spielberg’s quote from one of his movies comes to mind: “Making a film while practicing art comes with pain.” Art can bring honor but can also inflict wounds and loneliness upon me. Stubbornly pursuing my art may lead to criticism, potentially causing embarrassment to those I care about.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I strive to create new interactions and experiences through my media art as a new media artist. Utilizing AI and coding, I produce innovative forms of media art. One of my most renowned works is titled “To Eternity,” where an AI sensor recognizes participants’ body movements, triggering different outcomes for each participant. Recently, I’ve ventured into creating lifelike 3D characters known as digital humans. In a project, I transplanted ChatGPT onto a digital human, allowing participants to engage in conversations with the AI entity. This endeavor aims to evoke a sense of awe and wonder as participants interact with the AI-human hybrid, offering a unique and immersive experience. I distinguish myself from other artists by incorporating computer programming and cutting-edge AI technologies into my media art, a path less explored by many. This unique approach allows me to bring a distinctive perspective to my work, leveraging the capabilities of computer programming and the latest advancements in AI to create innovative and standout pieces in the field of media art.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I collaborate with 3D modelers, FX artists, and musicians. I have worked with musicians to create music videos and collaborated with 3D artists and FX artists to produce 3D animations with narratives. Given my involvement in live-action projects, I also participate in filmmaking and work as a film director. These diverse projects showcase my creative potential to express myself through various art forms and media.
Contact Info:
- Website: jonghoonahn.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jjong_jjong_hoon
Image Credits
Photography By Jonghoon Ahn
