Learn about our 2025 AWC Fellow, Matthew Kim!

About Me
Matthew Kim is a Korean American artist based in Los Angeles, California. Working in film, photography, and printmaking, his works engage with working class Asian American perspectives. He graduated from the University of California, Santa Cruz with degrees in Film Production and art. His undergraduate thesis film Conventional Green, explored Asian American perceptions of masculinity – inspired by the intersection of pride and family in his personal life. He recently produced and wrapped production on an independent feature film, and is currently working at Iconoclast.

What inspired you to pursue film/media arts?
I pursue filmmaking to share the story that I wish I could have seen growing up.

I'm sure many people can relate; but growing up there were many aspects of my life that felt isolated from my peers. Seeing films and listening to music that resonated with me were very hugely important to my growing up, and my primary goal for filmmaking is to validate the feelings and emotions of adolescents, who I believe are often overlooked or spoken over. "Films are a machine to generate empathy", and my hope is that this career can help bridge gaps between nationalities, borders, and generations.

What are you most excited about for this year’s AWC?
I'm excited to see everyones approach to their films this year, as some of our cohort is pursuing experimental and animated means of developing narratives, and I can't wait to see what they come up with!