Kuo Chih-yi
Kuo Chih-yi is an interdisciplinary developer and new media artist. His artistic creations include theatre, virtual reality, web media, audiovisual performances, and spatial installations. In recent years, he has focused on online multiplayer virtual performances, neural network image experiments, and research on post-human myths and rituals.
In 2015, Kuo founded the new media art team NAXS Corp., taking on various roles such as executive director, director, technical coordinator, spatial designer, and sound designer. Their work Render Ghost, a virtual immersive theatre piece, won the grand prize at the Digital Art Performance Awards in 2015. Kuo and his team's works have been showcased at notable venues such as the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts in Taichung, the Times Art Museum in Beijing, the Ars Electronica Festival in Linz, Austria, and the Transmediale Festival in Berlin, Germany.
- Location USA / New York, NY
- Year of the Grant 2020
- Residency International Studio & Curatorial Program (ISCP)
- Work NONEYE-Migration
The ISCP is located in an ideal spot, right in New York City, providing plenty of cultural nourishment to resident artists. While there, I visited renowned arts and cultural venues such as MoMA and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I also explored many small-to-medium performing venues and independent arts institutions.
During the residency, I was particularly impressed by The Shed, a new type of art venue inaugurated by the New York City government in 2019. Known for its unique land planning, dynamic architectural design, and diverse range of performances, The Shed stood out as a highlight. I participated in numerous large-scale immersive experiences and performances, which showcased the international art community's enthusiasm for immersive forms of expression. This resonated deeply with my earlier work, Render Ghost, a virtual immersive theatre piece, and opened up many new possibilities for my future artistic creations.
In addition to these experiences, I completed an artwork titled ID0 for the Taipei Digital Art Festival and pursued research and development on online performances. Stepping out of my comfort zone and creating art in a new environment was invaluable. It allowed me to broaden my perspective and re-evaluate my artistic position and future directions.
Finally, through an introduction from the ISCP director, I had the privilege of meeting with Michael Connor, the director of the Rhizome Digital Art Foundation, a subsidiary of the New Museum. Additionally, I exchanged ideas with over 30 artists from Europe, South America, Asia, and the USA, and visited curator Stephanie Acosta's studio. These experiences have had a profound impact on my artistic practice.
Author: Kuo Chih-yi
Edited: Brix