exhibition

Next Level: Paolo Cirio
AI Attacks

The solo exhibition AI Attacks by Paolo Cirio focuses on the social implications of AI systems, machine learning AI models, and the use of data. His work provides insight into how AI is misused by (governmental) institutions and in public spaces. The artist encourages reflection among the general public about these developments, offering a critical perspective on the potential abuse of power in public spaces, particularly concerning the (mis)use of image and identity.

Cirio’s work emphasizes that humans have shaped AI and have implemented these innovations, often lacking a full awareness of the risks. 

Mugshots.com, N, from the series Obscurity, 2016 © Paolo Cirio.
Street Ghosts, Wibautstraat 7, Amsterdam, from the series Street Ghosts, 2012-On going, 2010 © Paolo Cirio.
Capture, N, from the series Capture, 2020 © Paolo Cirio.

About Paolo Cirio

Paolo Cirio is a conceptual artist, activist, and hacker. The central themes he engages with are social, economic, and cultural issues in contemporary society. His interventions and research-based artworks are presented as installations, lectures, artefacts, photos, videos, and public art.

Cirio has participated in solo and group exhibitions at international museums and has won several awards, including Golden Nica first prize at Ars Electronica in Linz, 2014; Transmediale second prize in Berlin, 2006; Eyebeam Fellowship, 2012; and NEA grant at ISCP in NYC, 2017; among other awards.

Mugshots.com, N8, from the series Obscurity, 2016 © Paolo Cirio.

About Next Level

Since the autumn of 2015, Foam has presented the exhibition series Next Level, with the support of Ammodo. The series aims to introduce innovative art by relatively young artists who make radical new use of photography. Previous editions featured the work of Anne de Vries, Melanie Bonajo, Anouk Kruithof, Jonathas de Andrade and Sara Cwynar. For Next Level, artists also create new work that is premiered in the exhibition.

For more information or press requests, please see here or contact our press office at pressoffice@foam.org.

Next Level: Paolo Cirio is made possible by Ammodo and the Gieskes-Strijbis Fonds.


Blurry portrait of a male-presenting figure, with warm coloured tones

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Next Level: Paolo Cirio
AI Attacks