Mutations

Biogenesis shows the evolution of artificial life forms in a synthetic universe where 'survival of the fittest' is replaced by 'survival of the most aesthetic'. We see cellular evolution and the replication of mutations forming chain-like structures resembling coral. The artist is like a gardener, breeding, selecting, marrying and steering the course of evolution for creative ends. The film is a record of this evolutionary process. It can be viewed as a psychedelic experience or a more subtle parody of a man's relationship with the natural world through modern technology.

William Latham was a figure that dominated computer art and animation in the UK through his use of 'evolutionary' algorithms. Working at this time in partnership with an IBM scientific research centre, Latham aimed at remodelling the entire creative process, 'mutating' the most startling yet controlled virtual sculptures that had so far been seen. This sequence was released on home video formats as well as screened at festivals.

Computer animation.