What I do:
Young Suk Lee, I am an artist and researcher in Human-Computer Interaction and Design, creating new ideas on aesthetic interactions in everyday life. I pursue interactive, imaginative, and 'usable' engagements with technology by exploring meaningful embodiments that accommodate sensitive human values. In doing so, I draw critical yet imaginative design thinking in reconnecting ordinary artifacts to poetic experiences. Then, I incorporate this conceptual experimentation into 'Experimental Making', formulated by my art practice knowledge and intuitive making experiences. My practice-driven research uses a hybrid approach (traditional craft, digital fabrication, and physical computing) by integrating the theoretical foundations of art, technology, and design research. This combination of conceptual and methodological approaches aims to foster "Poetic Engagements with Technology".
I am currently working at Umeå Institute of Design & UmArts Research Centre as a postdoctoral fellow. From 2024 to 2026, I am taking part in an interdisciplinary research project that explores the intersections of AI, Design, and Art. (It is co-funded in equal parts by the department, the Faculty of Science and Technology and WASP-HS (Wallenberg AI, Autonomous Systems and Software Programme - Humanities and Society) research programme at Umeå University.)
https://www.umarts.se/post-doctoral-research/
What I studied:
"What I do" has been built through my cross-disciplinary education (Fine Art, Digital Art, Human-Computer Interaction, and Design) and my diverse work experiences (South Korea, USA, and Europe). I studied fine art at Hongik University in Seoul, South Korea (BFA, MFA). I further developed my artistic practice in digital art (MFA), and expanded my research perspective in Human-Computer Interaction (MS) at Bloomington, Indiana University, USA. Prior to relocating to Europe, I worked as an assistant professor of Integrated New Media Studies at Indiana University. Afterwards, I completed my Ph.D. studies at the University of Twente in the Netherlands.
What I like:
I get really excited about making, fishing, and swimming.
Contact:
artdesignys@gmail.com