In collaboration with Sensity Studio, art’otel London Hoxton presents Abiogenesis, an augmented reality display by Sofia Malemina, a recent Central Saint Martins graduate. The artwork invites viewers to explore hypotheses about the origins of existence and reflect on the endless cycles of transformation. “Supporting young talent is core to our art programme at art’otel London Hoxton. We’re 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 beginnings 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 simple abstract elements and pixels to embody life’s cycles of change and evolution. The video and sound installation depicts methods of transformations in five acts (screens) similar to four stages of life: “birth”, “growth”, “reproduction”, and “death”, while adding a fifth one dubbed the “afterlife”. The artwork presents a chaotic, yet interconnected narrative, drawing parallels to survival and being, chaos 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 as an embodiment of 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.

Sofia Malemina is a London-based multimedia artist recognised for her innovative approach to installations that blend video, sound, and immersive environments. Influenced by thinkers like Jean Baudrillard and John Cage, her work explores and challenges perceptions of identity and reality in the digital age. Exhibited across Europe and North America, her installations push the boundaries of spectatorship, inviting audiences into deeply interactive and transformative experiences.

art’otel London Hoxton is a cultural hub in the heart of creative Shoreditch with a strong cultural programme. The calendar is an ever-evolving lineup of events, workshops and activities celebrating the arts, culture, wellness, food, drink and lifestyle.

Sensity Studio is a London-based communications studio that helps female artists and women-led galleries achieve their full potential on a global scale. With a deep knowledge of the art world and extensive experience in the tech industry, Sensity also helps leading brands engage with culture-sensitive audiences and create transformational partnerships and communications through the power of women’s art.

A preview night will take place on 19 November from 6 to 9 p.m.
The exhibition will be open to the public from 20 November to 1 December 2024 at art’otel London Hoxton.
Rivington St, London EC2A 3DT