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Exploring the Future of Media Art: A Symposium on Nam June Paik

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Nam June Paik's passing, a pivotal figure often regarded as the father of media art. On July 20, 2026, a symposium entitled "Paik's VIDEAS in 2026 and Beyond" will be held, featuring prominent guests such as Akira Asada, Yoichi Ochiai, and Kazuhiko Yachiya. Together, they will examine Paik's philosophies and their impact on the future of art and culture. The event will be hosted at the Watari Museum and streamed through the ArtSticker platform, providing attendees the unique opportunity to revisit the content until November 23, 2026.

Paik, who revolutionized visual media since his introduction of television as an art form over half a century ago, left behind a legacy of innovative works that challenge conventional perceptions of technology, art, and human experience. His integration of Eastern philosophies with modern technology not only set the stage for 21st-century art but also opened dialogues that remain relevant today.

Tickets and Access

Tickets for the symposium are priced at ¥1,500 and can be purchased via the ArtSticker platform here (note: ensure the link leads to the correct ticket purchase page). The recorded discussions will be available for unlimited viewing throughout the streaming period, allowing you to experience the insights and engagements repeatedly.

About the Symposium

The symposium will delve into how Paik's innovative approaches continue to resonate in today's art landscape. The symposium features:

• - Date: July 20, 2026 (Monday, Marine Day)
• - Time: 13:00 - 16:00 (JST)
• - Speakers:

- Akira Asada (Critic, Philosopher)
- Yoichi Ochiai (Media Artist)
- Kazuhiko Yachiya (Media Artist)

• - Host: Koichi Watari (CEO of Watari Museum)

The Exhibition: Nam June Paik's 20th Anniversary

In conjunction with the symposium, the Watari Museum is currently hosting a special exhibition titled "Nam June Paik: Jugemu Exhibition", reflecting on his life’s work and its significance. The exhibition also commemorates the playful essence of Paik’s creations, paralleled with the traditional Japanese storytelling style of Jugemu, which humorously entails a child’s name that wishes for a long life. This clever and whimsical nod reminds us of the lasting impact of Paik's work, much like the continuous evolution of media art itself.

Nam June Paik: A Brief Biography

Nam June Paik was born on July 20, 1932, in Seoul. After studying aesthetics in Japan and music in Germany, he joined Fluxus in 1961, the avant-garde group dedicated to innovative ideas in art. His contributions to media art began in 1963, when he introduced television into the realm of contemporary art, merging technology with Eastern philosophies. From his first exhibition in 1978 to receiving the prestigious Golden Lion at the Venice Biennale in 1993, his work transcends time and continues to inspire new generations of artists.

About ArtSticker and the Watari Museum

ArtSticker, operated by The Chain Museum, seeks to connect audiences with art through a rich platform that supports ticket sales for events and immersive experiences. Watari Museum stands out as a private contemporary art institution, dedicated to showcasing global artists while fostering a strong relationship with both Japanese and Asian art scenes.

This anniversary in 2026 is not merely a celebration of Paik's life but an opportunity to critically engage with the questions he raised about art, technology, and humanity. The symposium promises rich discussions that will take us into an exciting future shaped by the legacy of Nam June Paik.