Daniel Lee (known as Lee Xiaojing in Chinese) is not an expert in the theory of evolution, but he’s got ideas about where we came from. He certainly doesn’t try to pass them off as scientific truth; instead, he makes his ideas into anything-but-primitive digital images intended as provocative art.

His series titled “Origin” depicts human evolution in 12 pictures, from the fish form (as Coelacanth) eventually transforming to reptiles, apes, and humans. This human metamorphosis reimagines our genesis and captures Lee’s signature style as a visual artist. He’s made a similar series called “Manimals” which blends animal features with people to make strange human hybrids. He has said computer technology has allowed him to combine his skills as a portrait photographer and fine artist into one medium.

“Origins” — Daniel Lee, 1999

It took him three photoshoots (using three different cameras) before he began doing the photo manipulation in Photoshop. Lee started by photographing a dead bluefish he picked up from an Italian market in New York City and finished with a human male model in various crouching and squatting positions.

Don’t know about you guys, but his weird art seems pretty convincing to me. You can view larger images below.

Daniel Lee’s photo manipulation artwork reimagines human evolution

Influenced by the theory of evolution, he creates a unique vision of our past

Instead, his human metamorphosis is provocative and quite surreal

Animal and human hybrids are a recurring motif in his visual art

His artwork combines his skills as both a portrait photographer and a fine artist

(All images ©DANIEL LEE)

P.S. And you still eat fish after seeing this?

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