Born in the United States, Trevor Paglen holds a PhD in geography from the University of California, Berkeley. His practice bridges the gap between fine art and investigative research, focusing on the intersection of state power, technology, and visual culture. He gained recognition for his efforts to document classified military sites and the physical manifestations of global surveillance networks.

Paglen utilizes a diverse range of media, including photography, sculpture, and data analysis, to make visible the invisible systems of the modern world. His work frequently examines how artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms interpret and categorize human behavior, often highlighting the biases and ethical implications inherent in these technologies.

In 2026, Paglen was named the recipient of the LG Guggenheim Award, an honor recognizing his significant contributions to the field of art and technology. He continues to exhibit internationally, with his work represented by major galleries such as Pace Gallery and Jessica Silverman Gallery, and he remains an active voice in contemporary discourse regarding digital privacy and infrastructure.