Mishka Henner's Satellite Photography Project Feedlots Exposes Industrial Meat Production

The photographic series Feedlots (2012-13) by Mishka Henner captures industrial cattle feedlots across the U.S. through satellite imagery. Initially identified through Google Earth, Henner first thought these locations resembled microbial structures. His findings indicate that contemporary meat production has accelerated cattle growth from five years to less than 18 months, utilizing hormones, antibiotics, and specialized designs. By combining high-resolution satellite images into large prints, he highlights the toxic colors of waste lagoons. This project explores how visual systems influence knowledge, using satellites and AI as creative instruments. Henner's work has been showcased at prestigious venues like MoMA and the Met. In 2013, he won the International Center of Photography's Infinity Award for Art and was a finalist for the Deutsche Börse Photography Prize and Prix Pictet in 2014. Notable feedlots featured include Black Diamond Feeders, Centerfire Feedyard, Coronado Feeders, Friona Feedyard, Randall County Feedyard, Tascosa Feedyard, and Wrangler Feedyard.