We are so excited and honored to be able to introduce to you the Shigeko Kubota Video Art Foundation. I have very personal memories and a place in my heart for this wonderful organization. Shigeko Kubota and Nam June Paik were neighbors for 20 plus years and SKVAF was founded 10 years ago by Norman and Sheryl Ballard in the loft space where Nam June and Shigeko lived. Last year at the end of May, Norman and Sheryl were kind enough to open up their space for us, to shoot our Pre-Spring ’26 photos. It was such a special experience for our team to work in a space so authentic and inspiring, surrounded by Shigeko Kubota’s life’s work and reflections. It was an experience we will always cherish in our hearts.
Video Artists Shigeko Kubota and Nam June Paik. For over four decades, it served as a hub of artistic experimentation and living space where the couple lived, worked, and helped. Located in the heart of SoHo, this loft was once the home and studio of pioneering define the language of video sculpture.
The Shigeko Kubota Video Art Foundation now occupies this historic space to preserve and present Kubota’s legacy and vision for the future. Through her sculptures, installations, and writings, Shigeko pushed the boundaries of technology and storytelling, blending video, memory, and sculpture. Kubota believed that video was more than just a medium; it was a way of being, seeing, and remembering. Her groundbreaking work continues to shape the evolution of contemporary media art, and this Foundation ensures that her vision lives on.
Founded at Shigeko's request by Norman Ballard, longtime collaborator and family friend who was responsible for the creation of the laser art works of Nam June Paik. The foundation studio is largely operated as Shigeko wished, as a family foundation, as was the Kubota-Paik 'household', and includes his wife Sheryl and son Reid. Nam June and Shigeko did not have children of their own. Among the Board, also made up of many Kubota-Paik early associates, is included Kevin Harrison who is one of George Macuinas' earliest supporters working on Fluxus projects and loft renovations since the early 70's helping to enable Macuinas' legendary efforts to establish an artist community in SoHo. He continues as Super at 110 Mercer / 537 Broadway, where Macuinas lived and the foundation is located, and where for over 50 years he continues to maintain the building which stands as the last Fluxus 'fluxhouse' in SoHo that still remains primarily occupied by artists and activities relating to the 'era', continuing a proud neighborhood phenomenon with Global impact.
