Sougwen Chung

Sougwen Chung, a ground-breaking Chinese-born, Canadian-raised artist who works in tandem with robots to create stunning art.

In the ongoing debate of AI vs. artists, Sougwen is embracing a collaborative approach that merges human creativity with AI technology.

Chung has developed a new multi-robotic system that they call D.O.U.G. (Drawing Operations Unit: Generation), that learns from 20 years of their drawings and syncs with their brainwaves producing art in response.

At the Singapore International Festival of Arts this year, Chung and Singaporean cellist Leslie Tan showcased a 45-minute performance featuring four robots. Tan's cello harmonized with Chung's dance-like act in the center of the canvas, surrounded by 4 robotic collaborators. The robots painted, guided by Chung's brain waves transmitted via a headset.

Chung was recently featured in the TIME’s 100 most influential people in AI list.

ps. What’s interesting is how these robots are tailored to an artist's unique style, working in tandem with their brainwaves. This connection bridges the gap between human and machine, upholding the artist's "originality" while sidestepping copyright concerns.

Last updated: June 2024