Zach Blas and Jemima Wyman

Proof of Personhood: Identity and Authenticity in the Face of Artificial Intelligence reflects on what it means to be human in an era marked by an ever-growing dependence on technology. The exhibition explores the unstable relationship between identity, agency and authenticity in popular culture and emerging technology.

Delving into the influence of advanced technologies on human identity, Proof of Personhood brings together local and international artists who use interactive software, AI-synthesized images, and genetic engineering to investigate the nature of personhood in the twenty-first century. Expect to see thought-provoking works by internationally acclaimed artists such as Zach Blas and Cécile B. Evans, as well as Singaporean artists Song-Ming Ang and Charmaine Poh.

Art is assumed to be a fundamentally human undertaking, but with the introduction of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools, this assumption is being questioned. As humans, we tend to project our own image, physiology and psychology onto technological systems in an attempt to better understand them, a process which often reproduces societal biases. The featured artworks expand the genre of portraiture, depicting human and non-human subjects to investigate the nature of personhood in the 21st century. In the process, they highlight the shifting conception of who—or what—is considered human.

In an era dominated by social media and digital tools for self-presentation, authenticity is a valuable commodity. As the same techniques for performing an authentic personality are employed by celebrities, everyday social media users and bots, Proof of Personhood asks: What does it mean to be “real”?

Venue: SAM at Tanjong Pagar Distripark

Admission: Admission is free for all visitors until 24 November 2023, after which, General Admission (free for Singaporeans and PRs) applies.

When: 22 Sep 2023 - 25 Feb 2024,

By: Singapore Art Museum (SAM)