What's Happening?
A new sculpture by artist Shio Kusaka, titled 'Beam' (2026), has been installed outside the Geffen Galleries at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). The artwork, which exemplifies Kusaka’s playful approach to ceramics, takes the form of a clay
saucer adorned with decorative mosaic tiles. A yellow beam of light emanates from the saucer, inviting visitors to look inside. The mosaic tiles, each a half-inch square of clay, were crafted in Kusaka's studio, emphasizing a quick turnaround process of making, drying, and firing. 'Beam' is one of several new outdoor artworks appearing around the new David Geffen Galleries, contributing to LACMA's evolving collection. The sculpture is visible from the W.M. Keck Education Center, serving as an inspiration for young artists.
Why It's Important?
The installation of Shio Kusaka's 'Beam' at LACMA signifies the museum's continued commitment to integrating contemporary art into its public spaces and expanding its collection with works that engage diverse audiences. Kusaka's use of mosaic tiles, a traditional art form, within a modern, playful sculpture like a flying saucer, bridges historical craftsmanship with contemporary artistic expression. This piece not only enriches the cultural landscape of Los Angeles but also serves as an educational tool, particularly for young artists at the W.M. Keck Education Center, who can draw inspiration from its innovative design and accessible materials. The sculpture's interactive element, with its inviting beam of light, encourages public engagement and fosters a sense of wonder, reinforcing the role of art in stimulating imagination and discovery within the community.
What's Next?
Following the installation of 'Beam,' LACMA plans to offer limited-edition ceramic sculptures, titled 'mini beam,' and children's t-shirts featuring Kusaka's reinterpretation of the LACMA logo, inspired by the sculpture. These items will be available at the LACMA Store, allowing the public to engage further with the artwork and the artist's vision. The presence of 'Beam' as a new icon at LACMA suggests that the museum will continue to feature and commission works that blend traditional techniques with contemporary themes, potentially leading to more public art installations that are both aesthetically pleasing and conceptually engaging. The sculpture's visibility from the W.M. Keck Education Center also indicates a sustained focus on art education and inspiring future generations of artists through direct exposure to significant works.
Beyond the Headlines
Shio Kusaka's 'Beam' transcends its immediate artistic appeal by subtly exploring themes of perception and interaction. The artist's choice of a flying saucer, a universally recognizable yet often debated symbol, invites viewers to consider their own beliefs and stories. The mosaic tiles, crafted with a simple and fun process, highlight the accessibility of art-making and the beauty found in repetitive, meticulous work. The sculpture's design, which encourages viewers to 'peek inside,' suggests a deeper engagement beyond surface-level observation, prompting introspection about what lies beneath the visible. This interactive and thought-provoking quality of 'Beam' contributes to a broader cultural dialogue about the role of art in public spaces, its ability to spark curiosity, and its potential to connect individuals through shared experiences and interpretations of familiar symbols.
