Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Si Hyun Uhm. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Si Hyun, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is my multimedia project involving a miniscope, which is a specialized imaging device used to capture real-time animal brain activity. This project bridges neuroscience and the arts, transforming raw scientific data into generative audio-visual experiences. It began as a collaboration with the miniscope lab at UCLA, where I worked with researchers to process and interpret the data.

The project holds personal significance because it combines my passions for music, technology, and interdisciplinary exploration. Using TouchDesigner and Max MSP, I created a system that converts brain activity patterns into dynamic visuals and immersive soundscapes. Each element reflects the intricate processes of the brain, turning scientific phenomena into a deeply engaging and interactive artistic experience.

This project became even more meaningful when I presented it live at conferences like MOXsonic 2025, where I could share the work’s potential to connect science and art. The positive responses from both scientific and artistic communities reinforced its impact and relevance. It also sparked ideas about using multimedia to make scientific research more accessible and emotionally resonant for the general public.

What makes this project especially close to my heart is its ability to foster a dialogue between disciplines, inspiring people to see the beauty in both art and science. It represents my belief in the transformative power of multimedia to build bridges and spark curiosity.

Si Hyun, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is SiHyun Uhm, and I am a composer, multimedia artist, pianist, conductor, and audio engineer currently pursuing a PhD in Composition at UCLA. My work sits at the intersection of music, technology, and storytelling, with a focus on creating immersive and interdisciplinary experiences. I got into this field through a lifelong passion for music, starting piano at age five and composing at ten, and my journey has been shaped by a deep curiosity for how technology can expand the possibilities of artistic expression.

My creative work spans a wide range, from classical compositions for orchestras and chamber ensembles to multimedia installations, film scores, and generative art. A significant part of my focus is on projects that bridge science and art, like transforming neuroscience data into generative audio-visual works. I also delve into themes of environmental awareness, as seen in my recent project centered on endangered animals, using art as a medium to spark reflection and conversation.

What sets my work apart is my ability to integrate advanced technology with emotional storytelling. For instance, I’ve used tools like TouchDesigner and Max MSP to create interactive installations, generative visuals, and motion-reactive performances. Additionally, my experience as an audio engineer allows me to deliver polished and professional audio work, from recording to post-production.

I’m most proud of how my projects have engaged and inspired audiences, whether through a acousmatic live ensemble piece, an electroacoustic performance, or a scientific visualization project. I’ve presented my work at conferences and festivals worldwide, and these opportunities to share my vision and connect with diverse communities have been incredibly meaningful.

My mission is to create art that resonates emotionally while exploring innovative ways to communicate complex ideas. Whether working on music, multimedia, or interdisciplinary collaborations, I strive to push boundaries, foster connections, and inspire new perspectives.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to connect with people on a deeply emotional and transformative level. Whether through a composition, a multimedia piece, or an interactive performance, I cherish the opportunity to create moments of reflection, inspiration, or understanding for my audience. Art allows us to explore complex emotions and ideas in ways that words alone often cannot.

For me, the greatest reward is seeing how my work impacts others—whether it’s someone being moved to tears by a piece of music, inspired by a multimedia installation, or gaining new perspectives from interdisciplinary collaborations. Knowing that what I create can spark curiosity, dialogue, and even change is incredibly fulfilling. It reminds me that art has the power not only to entertain but also to connect us to each other and to the world in meaningful ways.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

One of the biggest lessons I had to unlearn is the idea that everything in life must go exactly as planned to be successful. While I never saw myself as a goal-oriented person initially, I found myself becoming more rigid as I navigated life and career pressures. Like many people, I was taught to have a clear vision of what I wanted to achieve and to relentlessly pursue it. While there’s value in having direction, life’s challenges often make the path unpredictable.

I’ve learned that missed opportunities or setbacks aren’t the end of the journey—they’re often the beginning of something unexpected and even better. For example, coming to the United States at 14 wasn’t part of a grand plan but rather a series of unexpected turns and challenges. It was difficult at first, but it opened up countless new opportunities and shaped who I am today.

Now, I embrace the unpredictability of life. I still work hard, take risks, and pursue my passions, but I’ve learned not to dwell too long on disappointments. Instead, I allow myself the necessary time to grieve, rest, and reevaluate, knowing that unforeseen opportunities often arise from the moments when things don’t go as planned. This mindset has given me resilience, adaptability, and gratitude for the journey, even when it surprises me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sihyunuhm.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sihyunuhm
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/siamusic123
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sihyunuhm
• Twitter: https://x.com/ush1999
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JYMStudio_official
• Soundcloud: https://www.soundcloud.com/sihyunuhm