Ian Cheng is a highly innovative artist and artificial intelligence researcher who has gained recognition for his multimedia works that explore the relationship between humans, technology, and nature. Cheng's practice involves using simulations and artificial intelligence systems to generate artworks that are both thought-provoking and visually stunning. He is known for coining the term emergence to describe his practice, which involves creating complex systems that evolve over time, producing unpredictable results that are both fascinating and challenging. Cheng's notable works include BOB, a live simulated creature that interacts with its environment and learns from its experiences, and Emissaries, interactive installations in which viewers help evolve virtual characters. His ongoing project, The Reef, combines artificial intelligence and game mechanics to create a dynamic and ever-changing ecosystem that is both beautiful and haunting. Cheng's work has been exhibited at prestigious venues such as The Aspen Art Museum, The Walker Art Centre, and The Serpentine Galleries, and he has received numerous awards and accolades for his innovative approach to art and technology. His work has been praised for its ability to challenge our perceptions of the world around us and to inspire new ways of thinking about the relationship between humans and machines. Overall, Ian Cheng is a visionary artist and artificial intelligence researcher who is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of art and technology. His work is both intellectually stimulating and visually stunning, and it has the potential to inspire new ways of thinking about the relationship between humans and the digital world.
Ian Cheng, artist, artificial intelligence researcher, emergence, simulations, multimedia, BOB, Emissaries, The Reef, interactive installations, unpredictable results, challenging, prestigious venues, visionary
Ian Cheng is an American artist and artificial intelligence researcher currently based in Los Angeles. He creates multimedia works that explore the relationship between humans, technology and nature. He coined the term “emergence” to describe his practice, which involves using simulations and artificial intelligence systems to generate artworks. Cheng's notable works include BOB, a “live simulated creature”; Emissaries, interactive installations in which viewers help evolve virtual characters; and The Reef, an ongoing project that combines artificial intelligence and game mechanics. He has held solo exhibitions at The Aspen Art Museum, The Walker Art Centre and The Serpentine Galleries.
AI, Simulation, Emergence.
— Mei Wang
CITATION : "Mei Wang. 'Ian Cheng.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=208068 (Accessed on August 23, 2025)"
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