Bionic Angel · Michael Najjar

bitforms gallery is pleased to announce the second U.S. solo exhibition of Michael Najjar and the debut of his bionic angel photography series. On exhibit for the first time will be large-scale photographs: figura serpentina, laokoon, prometheus, danaë, cyrostat hssv 6-7 and bionic angel. The series deals with the process of transformation and the future technological control of human evolution. Due to accelerated developments in "G-R-I-N" technologies (genetics, robotics, information and nano-technologies), new post-human forms of existence are emerging. Everything that constitutes our human identity – our bodies, minds, memories and offspring – is changing into a post-human form of existence. "G-R-I-N" technologies aim to enhance the physical body and "human performance." Prenatal genetic determination makes it possible to build children and use cloned bodies for ersatz organs. Developments in nano technology that manipulate atomic structure enable creation of new bodies which are more robust, elastic and durable. As new bodies are adapted to high-speed data networks, biological evolution may employ genetic algorithms and neural networks. Imagery from the bionic angel series merges contemporary forms of body modification with classical idealized human figures from antiquity and the renaissance. Taking inspiration from Greek mythology, especially Ovid's Metamorphosis, creatures in the throes of transformation serve as a metaphor for inevitable genetic self-creation and possible immortality. These photographs critically explore the struggle for immortality and potential technological manipulations in human evolution. Najjar's netropolis series, which also premiered at bitforms in 2004, was on view at the Venice Biennale's 10th Annual Architecture Exhibition.