Faculty of Arts & Science

Criticism and Curatorial Practice

Kali Mitres

New Millennium Christ

Conceptualizing Jesus Christ as a trans-humanist figure, he is surrounded by intricate industrial machinery, creating a paradox between the spiritual and the technological. He is crucified; yet instead of being on a cross, he is positioned in the scene being held up by wiring- a question of the future of an anthropocentric world overtaken by machines, exploring evolution and transcendence beyond physicality. Augmentation and technical enhancements are seamlessly integrated into his form, suggesting that he is no longer in between man and God - but also machine.

“With this piece, I wanted to create an artwork that suggested a future of a merging of divinity with technological advancements. Jesus Christ is being depicted in an surreal alter-like scene, with wires holding him in a crucified position, and coming out of where his iconic wound would be instead. The figure is seen in harmony with the technology, suggesting a future where faith is still relevant in a world where machines have integrated with human life - including humans viewing the machines as something biblical. As machines grow into our lives, will humans begin to worship these artificial beings? The artwork invites viewers to contemplate the evolving nature of spirituality and humanity. ”