Date:
May 10, 2025, 5:00 – 7:00pm
The Institute for Transhumanist Cephalopod Evolution (ITCE) was established in 2017 at the MIT Media Lab by interdisciplinary artist and researcher Miriam Simun. A pioneering organization dedicated to exploring the intersection of human evolution, cephalopod biology, neuroscience, group dynamics, deep sea diving and somatic practices. Through research, education, and experiential programs, ITCE seeks to expand the boundaries of human perception and intelligence by drawing inspiration from one the oldest and most adaptable species on planet earth: cephalopods. Committed to developing biotechnologies of practice within existing human bioavailabilities, the Institute fosters radical new perspectives on adaptation and self and group transformation.
At this opening reception, the Institute for Transhumanist Cephalopod Evolution invites viewers inside the Recess's Session space to view a series of drawings and paintings made since the inception of the institute, some depicting practices of transcendence, and others made in the altered states of being and sensing developed by the Institute. Over the course of the Session, the works on display will change and grow. Also will be the film YOUR URGE TO BREATHE IS A LIE, made with synchronized swimmers, scientists and dancers with whom the original practices were developed.
Also, Simun and collaborators will provide an introduction to the Insitute and its "How to Become an Octopus (and sometimes squid)" workshop that will be offered weekly at Recess throughout their Session. Simun will lead a short collective introductory exercise and have an interactive conversation with the audience.
Recess's Session program presents the INSTITUTE FOR TRANSHUMANIST CEPHALOPOD EVOLUTION (ITCE) founded by interdisciplinary artist and researcher Miriam Simun. In a future marked by polycrisis brought on by rapid climate technological development and climate change, ITCE is dedicated to evolving the human species based on the role model species one the oldest and most adaptable species on planet earth: cephalopods - octopuses, squids, and cuttlefish. Join us for an introduction to ITCE and the workshops by Simun and collaborators, a short collective introductory exercise, and a conversation with the audience.
In addition to Miriam, facilitators include:
Bella Catanzaro: "I am about to graduate from the New School where I am studying Environmental Studies and Interdisciplinary Science. I have a deep love for Earth, and a passion to explore our connection to our environment. My education has given me a unique understanding of ecology and futures thinking whether that be through queer, political, or spiritual ecology."
Connor Gibbons: Connor has dedicated his career to understanding cephalopods. Connor received a B.S in Marine Science from Rutgers University in 2016. After graduating, Connor worked as an aquarist at Jenkinson’s Aquarium in New Jersey and became involved in cephalopod aquaculture. Connor joined the Axel lab in 2021 as the Cephalopod Facility Manager. Connor oversees the culturing of dwarf cuttlefish (Ascarosepion bandense), a dynamic cephalopod species used by the lab to study the neural basis of camouflage.
Netta Sadovsky MFA, LSW (she/they): Netta is a therapist and artist living in Philadelphia, PA, and the Assistant Director at The Deep Play Institute. Netta designs and leads retreats and workshops at the intersection of relational mindfulness and creativity for The Deep Play Institute. At West Philly Therapy Center, they provide individual and relationship therapy using Somatic Internal Family Systems. Netta holds a Master’s in Social Work and Social Research from Bryn Mawr College, has Level 2 training in Internal Family Systems Therapy, and has completed small group consultancy training in Tavistock Group Relations, along with extensive training in psychodrama, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and psychodynamic approaches to group work.