ORLAN is known for her groundbreaking work in performance art and body modification. Known for her provocative and interdisciplinary approach, ORLAN's art often explores themes of identity, gender, and the body, challenging conventional notions of beauty and self-perception.
ORLAN first gained attention in the 1960s and 1970s with her innovative use of her own body as a canvas and medium. She became widely recognized for her "Carnal Art" performances, where she engaged in a series of surgical procedures to alter her appearance, transforming her body into a living artwork. This controversial and bold practice was aimed at deconstructing traditional ideas of beauty and exploring the relationship between art, technology, and identity.
Throughout her career, ORLAN has engaged in various art forms, including photography, video, and installation, often incorporating elements of digital technology and biotechnology. ORLAN’s art continues to provoke thought and discussion on the political, cultural and religious pressures that the female body is subjected to.