Nam June Paik (1932–2006) is referred to as the “Father of Video Art” for his pioneering work in transforming video into a medium for artistic expression starting in the 1960s. Enjoy a selection of Paik’s work from MAG’s permanent collection, presented in the museum’s introductory Forman Gallery, and a screening of Nam June Paik: Edited for Television—a provocative portrait of the artist, his work, and his philosophies—in the Media Arts Watch Gallery.
Produced for public television station WNET/Thirteen in New York, Nam June Paik: Edited for Television features a unique interview of Paik by art critic Calvin Tomkins with witty commentary by host Russell Connor. Videotaped in his Soho loft, Paik discusses his work in relationship to art movements such as Dada, Fluxus, and Minimalism, as well as the influence of composer John Cage and the meditative practice of Zen koan.