Abiogenesis

About

In collaboration with Sensity Studio, art'otel London Hoxton presented Abiogenesis, an augmented reality display by Sofia Malemina, a recent Central Saint Martins graduate. The artwork invites viewers to explore the origins of existence hypotheses and reflect on the endless cycles of transformation. “Supporting young talent is core to our art programme at art'otel London Hoxton. We are thrilled to provide emerging artists with the space and resources to bring bold, immersive visions to life," the art’otel team comments. 

Malemina explores the concept of the beginning phenomena through biological terminology as part of her ongoing exploration of non-existential existential concepts. Inspired by Alexander Oparin's theory of Abiogenesis, which alludes to the inanimate origins of the first life forms on Earth, she employs abstract and symbolic figures — like water and wind through pixels — to embody physical and esoteric cycles of change and evolution. The video and sound installation depicts methods of transformations in five acts (screens) similar to four stages of life: “birthˮ, “growthˮ, “reproductionˮ, and “deathˮ while adding a fifth – an “afterlifeˮ. The artwork presents an enigmatic yet interconnected narrative, drawing parallels to survival and being, mystery and complexity, and matter and technology by questioning the perceptions of reality and reformations.

"This is my first solo exhibition, and I’m grateful to art'otel London Hoxton for their support. This project has inspired me to create unique artwork to embody the transformative essence," according to Malemina. Through this exhibition, Sofia encourages the audience to reflect on the philosophical implications of life’s cyclical nature and on the transient moments that shape our reality. "There is no final state — everything is part of an endless process of change," shares Malemina, reflecting her belief in the fluidity of existence.