The Futurist Vision of Pierre Huyghe Circles Back to Old Tropes

Artnet News

by Eve Rogers

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Pierre Huyghe’s latest exhibition, *Liminals*, at LAS Art Foundation in Berlin, showcases his ambitious exploration of AI-driven ecosystems and quantum theory. Despite its cutting-edge themes, the show ultimately relies on familiar, conventional imagery that feels oddly out of step with its futuristic aspirations. The centerpiece is a 50-minute film depicting a gender-neutral figure in a desolate landscape, initially presented as an abstract, non-human entity. However, the inclusion of specific details—such as a cesarean scar and a Cesarean mound—makes it clear that this figure is meant to be read as a human female who has given birth, evoking a sense of vulnerability and horror reminiscent of classic cinematic tropes. The exhibition’s setting at Halle am Berghain—a cavernous, former electrical station with a haunting atmosphere—heightens the experience. The venue’s cold, cathedral-like spaces and immersive soundscape create an otherworldly ambiance that draws viewers into Huyghe’s constructed reality. Yet, as the film progresses, its deliberate pacing and flailing movements of the figure fail to fully unsettle expectations, leaving audiences with a sense of unease rather than genuine disorientation. Critics argue that this reliance on recognizable imagery undermines the exhibition’s stated goal of exploring a “radical outside” beyond human subjectivity. While Huyghe’s work is undeniably innovative in its use of technology and interdisciplinary approaches, *Liminals* raises important questions about the balance between conceptual ambition and narrative clarity. By blending advanced bio-technological environments with familiar horror tropes, the exhibition highlights the tension between pushing boundaries and falling back on established frameworks. For art enthusiasts and critics alike, this show serves as a thought-provoking case study in how contemporary art engages with—or sometimes leans into—tried-and-true storytelling devices, even when attempting to envision a post-human future.

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Originally published on Artnet News on 2/19/2026