Debuting in New York’s Times Square: Emi Kusano’s Latest Collaboration with LG Art Lab
Challenging AI’s Soul in 'Advertising Humanity' (2024), Release on LG Art Lab
As debates around AI grow more intense, I find myself increasingly preoccupied with one question: What does it mean to be human? With AI becoming an integral part of both our daily lives and the creative process, the boundaries of human uniqueness and creativity are being challenged. These reflections have deeply shaped my artistic practice, and through my work, I aim to visually explore this profound question while sparking new conversations about the evolving relationship between AI and humanity.
In my latest piece, I delve into both the possibilities and limitations of AI, focusing on moments where our humanity is truly put to the test. Through this work, I hope to encourage people to rethink what it means to be human and to discover their own perspectives in the face of AI's growing presence. These reflections have led me to consider how we define our humanity in this rapidly changing landscape—something I believe we’ll need to discuss more over the next decade.
Showcased in Times Square!
I’m honored to announce my first collaboration with nft now and LG Art Lab, where my newest artwork, ‘Advertising Humanity’ (2024), will be featured. Special thanks to Matt Medved, whose invitation opened the door to this incredible opportunity. In a nostalgic nod to Japan’s early TV ads, this piece uses Times Square billboards and TV screens as a canvas to question AI’s ability to capture human essence. You’ll be able to see this work displayed on public screens in none other than Times Square, New York, as well as on TV networks across America.
Where and When to View the Artwork
Location: Times Square bilboards, New York
Display Dates: Until October 14, 2024
Additional Locations: Broadcast on TV networks across America 🗽
About ‘Advertising Humanity’ (2024)
The inspiration behind ‘Advertising Humanity’ stems from my deep love for early Japanese TV commercials. I often find myself watching old programs and ads on YouTube, captivated by that pre-internet era when mass media had a powerful influence. The artwork presents a fictional advertisement set in a future where AI controls nearly all aspects of society. Using my own face, the image portrays an uncanny, almost unnatural gaze. This contrasts the immense technological progress AI has achieved with something it can never replicate—our core humanity.
By evoking the spirit of Japanese bubble-era television advertisements, the piece reflects on the utopian dreams of technological and financial growth, as well as the inevitable collapse of those dreams. This work asks a critical question:
“Can AI ever capture the essence of being human, or is there something about our nature that will forever remain elusive to machines?”
Inspired by Japan’s Televised Advertisements 📺
Japan was a global leader back then, with companies like Sony driving innovation. It was a time when televised advertisements promised a better world through technology, yet beneath this optimism, there was an underlying anxiety—a sense that our technological aspirations might be outpacing our humanity.
In ‘Advertising Humanity’, there’s a woman who resembles me, delivering the line, “Humanity cannot be monetized.” This was inspired by late-night Japanese consumer finance commercials, where slogans like “use responsibly（ご利用は計画的に）” were often spoken by cheerful women. I wanted to recreate that duality, reflecting both the optimism and the unease of that time, and pushing viewers to consider whether AI can ever truly understand the intricacies of what it means to be human.
By blending nostalgia for Japan’s booming economic period with current concerns about AI, the piece invites you to reflect on the relationship between technology and humanity—a conversation that feels more relevant than ever today.
Thoughts on the Collaboration with LG Art Lab
In the digital era, breaking through the filter bubble is one of the greatest challenges especially with social content so heavily shaped by algorithms. It’s easy for an artist’s voice or visuals to either get lost or provoke unintended reactions. That’s why this collaboration with LG feels so monumental, it marks a real breakthrough. Seeing my face on a billboard for the first time was surreal, a moment that truly encapsulates the reach and impact of digital art today.
What makes this experience even more special is LG's genuine enthusiasm for digital art. Throughout the process, they've been incredibly supportive, giving me the space to prioritize my vision. During our Zoom meetings, their team consistently emphasized the importance of my creative direction, ensuring I felt confident and comfortable at every step. It’s rare to find a company of LG’s scale that is so willing to champion artists in this way, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with such a forward-thinking team.
A Moment of Gratitude: The Lumen Prize Nomination ⭐️
I recently had the honor of attending The Lumen Prize Award ceremony in the UK, where I am a finalist for the Still Image Award. Being recognized among such a talented group of digital artists has been an incredible experience. My time in London was unforgettable, as I witnessed the beautiful synergy between the digital and traditional art scenes. The fusion of innovation and heritage in this city has left me deeply inspired, fueling my passion to keep pushing creative boundaries.
This nomination is a true honor, and the inspiration I’ve gathered here will undoubtedly shape my future work. I am incredibly grateful for the journey and excited to share what’s next. Keep an eye out for more updates from the event, as well as an exciting upcoming release at Christie’s this month. Stay tuned for more details!
Thank you once again for your unwavering support. This journey would not be possible without the passion and encouragement of this incredible community of collectors. I am deeply grateful to have you by my side, and I look forward to sharing more exciting moments as we close out 2024 together ♡