US · International contemporary art platformThe Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) has added a new sculpture by Shio Kusaka to its collection. The artwork, named “Beam,” was created in 2026 and features a combination of aluminum, stainless steel, paint, and clay. It was purchased with funds provided by Carter Reum and Paris Hilton.
“Beam” takes the form of a large clay saucer adorned with decorative mosaic tiles. The sculpture includes a yellow beam of light that encourages visitors to look inside the piece. Kusaka originally conceived the work as a rocket but later shifted to the image of a flying saucer, a shape she describes as universally recognizable and evocative of many personal stories, regardless of belief in UFOs.
The artist faced technical challenges in creating the saucer shape from clay, which is typically more stable when built upward rather than wide and sloped. Kusaka overcame this by making the bottom of the saucer flat, allowing it to fit into a kiln, and reinforcing it with steel and mosaic materials on the underside.
The sculpture is visible from the W.M. Keck Education Center at LACMA, where it has already inspired young artists. Kusaka also emphasized the beam of light as a structural element that supports the flying saucer, adding both conceptual and physical balance to the piece.
“Beam” enriches LACMA’s contemporary art collection by combining traditional ceramic techniques with modern materials and imaginative themes. The acquisition reflects the museum’s ongoing commitment to showcasing innovative works that engage diverse audiences.
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