Step into the captivating world of June Kim, a contemporary and innovative artist blending physical art, digital tools, and artificial intelligence. In this episode, we delve into her inspirations from the Asian red thread mythology, her techniques combining traditional handcrafting with AI, and her commitment to empowering Asian women artists in Web3 spaces. An inspiring conversation on creativity, human connection, and the future of art.
🎧 Listen now to discover her unique journey and groundbreaking vision on 2Goodmedia Podcast.
Who is June Kim?
June Kim is an interdisciplinary artist who transcends the boundaries between artistic media. She is known by the pseudonym “Red Thread” and has been working for over 10 years on reinterpreting the Asian belief in the red thread of fate.
Delphine Souquet, June Kim at NFT Paris
I had the privilege of meeting June Kim, an incredibly inspiring and talented artist, during NFT Paris. Known as Red Thread on Instagram, June is a Korean-born interdisciplinary contemporary artist whose work seamlessly bridges the worlds of physical and digital art. Her unique creations explore the deep, universal concept of human connection through the symbolism of the red thread—an invisible force believed, in Asian mythology, to bind us to those we are destined to meet.
June Kim : a physical AI artist
June describes herself as a “physical AI artist,” blending traditional techniques like hand-sewing and sculpture with cutting-edge technologies such as 3D modeling, animation, and artificial intelligence. Her art is a testament to her belief in the constant evolution of ideas and innovation in artistic mediums. From physical installations to immersive digital landscapes, her works speak to the timeless yet ever-evolving nature of connection.
“In Asia, we believe we are connected with invisible red threads. Even if you try to break it, it never breaks. It’s about destiny, about the people you’re supposed to meet—your parents, your lovers. It’s all already connected.”
At NFT Paris, June showcased some of her most iconic pieces, including a striking red thread sculpture shipped internationally from her Los Angeles studio. The sculpture, along with her digital creations, reflects her overarching theme of connection, which she believes is the essence of humanity. Her work initially focused on the relationships between people—using social media data as a starting point—but has since expanded to explore the connection between humans and nature.
“These days, I’m looking for how to connect humans and nature. I believe true happiness comes when humans are connected to nature—like reconnecting with a mother, with Mother Nature.”
During our conversation, June shared how her practice has evolved over time. Initially focused on physical materials like plexiglass and thread, she transitioned to digital art during the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift, born of necessity, opened a new chapter in her creative journey, allowing her to experiment with photography, 3D art, animation, and AI. Today, her art merges physical and digital mediums, contributing to what she calls “the future of art.”
“The mission of an artist is to contribute to history, to humanity, by bringing new ideas. That’s why I keep trying something new—whether it’s merging physical and AI art or creating with 3D and digital tools.”
June’s passion for innovation is matched by her commitment to advocating for diversity in the art world, particularly in Web3 spaces. She founded NFT Asian Women to support underrepresented female artists, especially Asian women, in the NFT community. Her dedication to empowering women and fostering inclusivity is evident in her collaborations and projects.
“In 2021, almost 90% of NFT sales were by male artists. I knew so many talented women artists, especially Asian women, who weren’t getting the recognition they deserved. So I created a space for them to connect and showcase their work globally.”
June’s work is an invitation to reflect on what truly connects us, whether it’s to each other, to nature, or to new technologies. For artists and art enthusiasts alike, her approach is both groundbreaking and deeply inspiring. I encourage you to listen to our full conversation on the 2Goodmedia podcast to dive deeper into her vision, her journey, and her thoughts on the evolving landscape of art and technology.
June Kim alias Red Thread an Art Girls artist
Our conversation at NFT Paris was more than an interview—it felt like destiny. The idea of the red thread took on a special significance as we connected over shared values, creativity, and the power of art to bring people together.
A conversation on connection, evolution, and the impact of art
During our discussion, we explored themes that deeply resonate with my vision of expanding consciousness. Here are some highlights from our conversation:
- The legend of the red thread, a symbol of connection and destiny in Asian cultures, which lies at the heart of June’s artistic practice. As she shared, “The red thread represents this invisible connection we have with others. It’s a belief that has guided me in my work for over a decade.”
- The evolution of her work, from tangible sculptures to innovative digital creations, inspired by moments of personal transformation, such as the pandemic lockdown. June reflected, “The isolation of the pandemic allowed me to experiment with new tools and approaches, like AI, to expand my creative expression.”
- Her mission to create bridges between humans and nature, using landscapes and natural elements to evoke universal connections, such as the symbolic umbilical cord.
- Her commitment to increasing the visibility of women artists, particularly Asian women, in the Web3 and NFT spaces. “It’s essential to bring more diversity into these spaces. Women, especially Asian women, have so much to contribute,” she said.
Why listen to this episode?
This podcast is for anyone seeking to understand how art can serve as a vehicle for connection and transformation. Whether you’re an artist, a tech enthusiast, or simply curious, this conversation with June Kim sheds light on how innovation and tradition can come together to address the challenges of the modern world.
“In Asia, we believe we are connected with invisible red threads. Even if you try to break it, it never breaks. It’s about destiny, about the people you’re supposed to meet—your parents, your lovers. It’s all already connected.”
If you enjoyed this episode, I invite you to discover the other two conversations in this three-part series recorded at the heart of the largest NFT trade show in Paris, exploring the art market and Web3 :
- Annelise Stern Founder of Art Girls Gallery showcasing the artist June Kim
- Brian Beccafico Founder of Arthemort and digital art collector
A true cultural and digital revolution. Don’t hesitate to subscribe to the 2goodmedia podcast on your favorite listening platform so you don’t miss our next report on major trade shows in the creative industries.
Credits : Photographies : Courtesy of Art Girls Gallery and June Kim. Editorials and Podcast by 2good Holding @2024 all rights reserved. Article et Podcast par 2Good Holding @2024 tous droits réservés.
