The museum also features an exhibition on U-Ram Choe ‘s “kinetic, seal-like creature,” Custos Cavum (Guardian of the Cave). Inspired by Shiva Nataraja, another work currently on display at the Asia Society, Choe designed Custos Cavum with a stainless steel base and acrylic finishes. Choe leverages robotics experience and new technologies to animate his creation and allow for compressions in the metal that simulate breathing.

The beast’s sharp tail seems dragonish while protruding, arched tusks are reminiscent of a wooly mammoth. Its contoured form is similar to that of a dolphin (minus the dorsal fin, plus wings). The wings, a rich gold color, flutter gently as the creature contracts its metal diaphragm.

In essence, Custos Cavum functions as both an animal and human and captivated me at first glance. I spent more time standing in place, analyzing the creature’s breathing patterns than examining Tagore’s walk-through exhibit. Yeah, it’s that good. Check out my POV on Custos Cavum and the Asia Society’s panoramic video!