“Electronic Superhighway: Continental U.S., Alaska, Hawaii,” created by Nam June Paik in 1996, is a prominent Neo-Dada installation artwork. This expansive installation uses neon lights and a multitude of television screens to outline the map of the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii, symbolizing the interconnectedness and the pervasive nature of electronic communication across the country.
The artwork is a striking visual representation of the United States, delineated by brightly colored neon lights. Each state is filled with numerous television screens displaying a plethora of images and videos, reflecting the culture and media consumption characteristic of each region. The vibrant neon outlines pulsate with various colors, enhancing the feeling of dynamism and movement, akin to the flow of information across electronic highways. The juxtaposition of the vintage television screens with the modern neon lights bridges different eras of technology, showcasing Paik’s innovative integration of art with technology.