Arts at CERN

Kamil Hassim’s practice blends art, science, and Indigenous knowledge systems

Kamil Adam Hassim is a transdisciplinary artist, musician, and filmmaker known for his innovative work that blends art, science, and Indigenous knowledge systems. Hassim’s artistic practice is characterised by a deep engagement with the concept of space-time itself as an artistic medium. He is fascinated by the exploration of nature and the use of its phenomena as an artistic language.

In 2021, Hassim and Ian Purnell were selected for Connect South Africa. Together, the artists completed a dual residency at CERN and at the group of astronomy observatories connected to the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) and the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO).

This experience was transformative for his practice, as he met leading physicists and scientists and witnessed cutting-edge experiments in particle physics, engineering, and astronomy. His approach is marked by a synthesis of scientific observations and spiritual sensitivity adjacent to the ancient Indigenous Polynesian art of Wayfinding.