Parsons & Charlesworth

Catalog for the Post-Human is a satirical installation that draws upon research into the future of work and human enhancement to highlight the nature of our post-human condition. The project asks “How will we live together if we are forced to augment ourselves to stay competitive?”. The Venice iteration of this multipart project manifests as the trade fair stand of a fictional, near-future organization, Catalog for the Post-Human, showing a range of body-related objects for gig-economy workers. Imagining a future where success depends upon our ability to be permanently cognitively sharp, quantifying ourselves with data, and able to work the long and irregular hours assigned by algorithm-run corporations, Catalog for the Post-Human provides tools to help workers cope with circumstances in which their bodies may be pushed to the limit. What are the logical conclusions of the work/life changes we’re already seeing? How will AI, brain-computer interfaces, and constant corporate surveillance affect our behaviors? What are the physical and psychological consequences of giving over body and mind to the unrelenting productivity of data-driven capitalism.

Image 1 – How will we live together?
Under the guise of fictional retailer Catalog for the Post-Human, Parsons & Charlesworth presents a collection of body-related objects for workers of the near future.

Image 2 – Sneak peek of the project
Catalog for the Post-Human in progress. Products are offered by the Catalog for the Post-Human under four themes: Cognitive Management, Expedited Recovery, Optimized Wellness, Enhanced Productivity.

Graham Foundation for Advanced Studies in the Fine Arts
Consort Display Group
British Council

Lead Artists: Jessica Charlesworth and Tim Parsons
Graphic Identity: Michael Savona
Digital Media: Hour Studio