A Fusion of Vision and Space
Maybe you are wondering if public art can speak for itself in the interior design of a building. Digital art encompasses various artworks created or modified using digital technology, including graphic design, 3D modeling, animation, and generative art. In interior design, digital art enriches the aesthetic and practical aspects of space by transforming simple walls with lively digital prints or projections, presenting a variety of colours and patterns that alter the atmosphere. Furthermore, digital art can produce captivating, interactive installations that react to movement, offering viewers a dynamic, evolving visual experience. Introducing the Hangeul Wall, a stunning 26 x 72-foot installation with 20,000 Hangeul tiles symbolizing global wisdom. Launched by the Korean Cultural Center New York (KCCNY) and LG CNS in May 2024, this new website invited users to share their creativity on the theme “Things I Love to Talk About.” Within two months, it attracted over 8.2 million visitors and received 7,000 artwork submissions. From these, 1,000 outstanding pieces were selected through public voting and artist reviews, showcasing incredible creativity.
January 1, 2025
Words: Poupak Seyedan
Translation: “The most beautiful moment is now.”
A talking wall
The Hangeul Wall is a notable work of art symbolizing Hangeul’s cultural heritage and the universal right to free expression. Unlike typical walls that divide, it serves as a pillar of peace and unity, acting as a canvas for connection. This installation has opened a new path in Kang’s artistic journey. It promotes conversation and collaboration with the audience using a digital approach. The work shows how the artist and public relationship can break down the cultural, racial, and every possible boundary that limits connections. It points to Kang’s future focus on the voices and experiences shared by the community in his art.
Ik-Joong Kang, a renowned artist celebrated for his innovative mixed-media sculptural installations that encapsulate unity and connection, has skillfully created art pieces that harmoniously blend with the library’s interior design. This seamless integration allows the artwork to appear as a natural extension of the building’s structure, enhancing its overall aesthetic. The result is the Hangeul Wall, which emerges as an artistic addition and a vital architectural component. This impressive endeavor was made possible through a collaborative process that involved close cooperation with architects and construction specialists, culminating in a remarkable synthesis of art and architecture.
As a guest, you have two options at the kiosk before the Hangeul Wall. You can either touch the screen for an automatic setup or manually select each letter, color, background, and vowel and consonant shades for a more personalized experience. The latter option allows for greater creativity, and once you finish, you can download and email your creations to loved ones.
The team partnered with LG Electronics to develop a two-way communication platform to enhance the Hangeul Wall’s dynamism. This collaboration has made global interaction feasible. Consequently, since launching the Hangeul Wall project, they have welcomed over 8.2 million visitors. And, in just two months, more than 7,000 people have shared their artwork.
Integration of Digital Art in Interior Architecture
Several important factors must be considered when setting up an art wall in a public indoor area. The first step is to understand the cultural and community context of the building. Interactive installations can promote collaborative art spaces, allowing participants to engage digitally and contribute to communal artwork.
In performance venues and exhibition spaces, merging digital art displays with traditional artworks can highlight the evolution of cultural expressions. Additionally, you can create multi-sensory experiences that integrate sound, visuals, and tactile elements. If you’re working on a studio project, design areas where visitors can produce digital art using tablets, virtual reality, or design software. In a lounge or café setting, enhance the atmosphere with digital art installations that evolve throughout the day. Furthermore, consider providing charging stations and screens for visitors to share their experiences on social media.
Another crucial aspect to enhance your project is sustainability and technology. Aim to use energy-efficient screens, projectors, and lighting systems. Select sustainable materials for furnishings and décor and incorporate innovative building systems to monitor energy consumption and maintain comfort.
Finally, prioritizing user experience is essential. Ensure that accessibility is emphasized through easy navigation and intuitive technology. Develop interfaces in multiple languages for digital art showcases to attract a diverse audience. Set up feedback stations to allow visitors to express their opinions and engage with the center.
Example Themes for Digital Art in a Cultural Centre
Themes can include Heritage and History. You could create animated stories that digitally reinterpret cultural achievements or traditional art forms. Additionally, you might focus on Nature and the Environment, crafting dynamic digital murals inspired by local landscapes or natural events. Another option is to explore the Future and Innovation using digital installations showcasing the intersection of culture and technology.
Final Word
Digital art utilizes technology to enhance artwork, significantly influencing interior design with vibrant prints and interactive installations. A notable example is the Hangeul Wall, a 26 x 72-foot installation of 20,000 Hangeul tiles launched in May 2024 by the Korean Cultural Centre New York and LG CNS. It featured a website inviting submissions on “Things I Love to Talk About,” attracting over 8.2 million visitors and 7,000 entries. Created by Ik-Joong Kang, the Hangeul Wall represents cultural heritage and free expression while promoting peace and unity through digital interaction. It merges art and architecture, allowing visitors to create customizable art. When installing art walls in public spaces, cultural context, community needs, and accessibility must biofeedback be feedback mechanisms; interactive installations and sustainability are key to improving user experience. Potential project themes include Heritage and History, Nature and the Environment, and Future and Innovation.
