L'Institute d'Art Contemporain, Lyon, 2010: retrospective

As part of the Space Brain Laboratory, L'Institute hosted the first retrospective of Gysin in France, designed by the New Museum (New York).

Over 300 of his drawings, books, paintings, photocollages, films, slides and sound installations were brought together from October 16th to November 28th.

Painter, poet and writer, Brion Gysin is famous for having developed the cut-up technique (1959) and 'permutated poems' - both in conjunction with William Burroughs. A sound poetry pioneer, in 1961 Gysin also wrote the poem I Am That I Am.

Brion Gysin also worked with mathematician Ian Sommerville to create the Dreamachine (1961), a landmark in psychedelic experiment. The focal point of this exhibition, the Dreamachine is a kinetic light-sculpture which, when revolving at a specific frequency, can induce visions in the subject, whose eyes are closed. At a time when only scientists were taking an interest in innovative tools, Gysin was experimenting with nascent computer technology and magnetic tape as he pressed further down the trail blazed by his Permutations.

Defying classification, he advocated a radically interdisciplinary approach, and was one of the earliest practitioners of multi-media performances. Brion Gysin's works subvert reality with experiments combining the perceptual and the poetic. A true precursor, he continues to influence visual artists, musicians and writers today.

More information available at: L'Institut d'Art Contemporain