Lynn Hershman Leeson’s groundbreaking exhibition at the Julia Stoschek Foundation in Düsseldorf, Germany, offers a deep dive into the world of the American feminist artist and video pioneer. Entitled “Are Our Eyes Targets?”, the show delves into Hershman Leeson’s exploration of authenticity, truth, and the implications of digital technology on our lives.
The centerpiece of the exhibition is the artist’s seminal video-art series, “The Electronic Diaries of Lynn Hershman Leeson 1984–2019.” Through a multi-channel video installation, viewers are brought face to face with the artist’s personal journey, marked by trauma, abuse, healing, and introspection. Hershman Leeson’s use of intimate storytelling and confessional imagery creates a sense of closeness between the artist and the audience, inviting them to be part of her narrative.
In addition to her personal diaries, Hershman Leeson’s exhibition also features works that tackle broader societal issues, such as digital dependency, surveillance, and the political implications of technology. Pieces like “Paranoid” and “Seduction of Cyborg” challenge viewers to confront the darker aspects of our digital age, highlighting the potential dangers of constant surveillance and data-driven policing.
One of the most striking works in the exhibition is “Shadow Stalker,” which addresses the controversial surveillance software Predpol and its impact on marginalized communities. Through a powerful performance by Tessa Thompson, Hershman Leeson sheds light on the racialized nature of data-assisted policing, urging viewers to reflect on the ethical implications of technology in society.
As visitors navigate through the exhibition, they are confronted with a mix of personal and political narratives, all woven together by Hershman Leeson’s unique visual language. Each piece serves as a reflection on the complexities of our digital world, inviting viewers to question the boundaries between technology, privacy, and freedom.
“Lynn Hershman Leeson: Are Our Eyes Targets?” is a thought-provoking and immersive experience that challenges viewers to rethink their relationship with technology and the images it produces. The exhibition runs at the Julia Stoschek Foundation in Düsseldorf until February 2, 2025, offering a rare opportunity to engage with the work of this pioneering artist.
