Neil Harbisson, a self-declared “cyborg artist,” has spent two decades challenging conventional ideas about technology and the human body. Born with the rare condition achromatopsia, which limits his vision to black, white, and shades of grey, Harbisson decided in 2004 to have an antenna surgically implanted into his skull. The device, known as an “eyeborg,” allows him to “hear” colors by transforming light waves into sound. This antenna has become part of his identity, allowing him to perceive colors in a way that’s entirely different from those with typical vision.
Harbisson’s journey is now the subject of Cyborg: A Documentary, directed by Carey Born. Born was immediately fascinated when she learned about Harbisson, describing her first encounter with him as “gobsmacking and astonishing.” She explains that the film doesn’t just explore Harbisson’s technological enhancement, but also dives into how his new sense has changed his life. “The reason he did it was not to substitute the sense that he was lacking – it was in order to create an enhancement,” Born said.
In the film, Harbisson discusses his experience with the implanted antenna, which connects not only to his brain but also to external devices and the internet. His partner, Moon Ribas, also features in the film, noting his courage to live differently: “He is brave, he likes to do things differently.” Harbisson himself believes the antenna has expanded his perception of reality, allowing him to experience the world in ways others cannot. “I don’t feel like I’m using technology, I feel like I am technology,” he explains.
Despite his groundbreaking modifications, Harbisson has faced significant backlash. “For many years we’ve had different types of death threats, from people who really hate what we’re doing, because they think it’s anti-natural or anti-God,” he says in the film.
Director Born urges viewers to consider the potential dangers of unchecked technological advancements. “Cybernetics will happen – it is happening,” she warns, encouraging a conversation about the ethical and societal implications of such changes. Cyborg: A Documentary was released in UK cinemas on 20 September.
