A profile of Nelly Ben Hayoun-Stépanian, an artist, activist, and creative director who challenges power structures and inspires people to think differently through her work with NASA, the creation of the University of the Underground, and her latest film, Doppelgängers³.
Nelly Ben Hayoun-Stépanian, an artist, activist, and creative director, has designed experiences for NASA, Porsche, Lego, and Nike. Her wildly decorated office, a repurposed tube carriage on a Shoreditch nightclub roof, reflects her vibrant personality and diverse projects. She's created a cosmic playground in Piccadilly Circus and sent heartbeats into space. In 2012, she co-founded the International Space Orchestra, bringing together scientists and musicians. She also established the University of the Underground, a tuition-free university operating in nightclub basements. Her latest film, Doppelgängers³, explores the future of space and critiques the current billionaire-driven space race. The film features interviews with experts and a simulated space mission involving her and two doppelgangers. Ben Hayoun-Stépanian's work is driven by a desire to challenge power structures, promote diversity, and reimagine space exploration as a decolonial and pluralistic endeavor. She has also been made into a Barbie doll, reflecting her commitment to representation.
