Atari Poetry IV is a cinematic poem built on an Atari 2600 cartridge, programmed using binary code and assembler language. Since the beginning of Merhi's artistic practice, the use of computer hardware and software, as well as various electronic components, has been crucial in the development of his technology-oriented projects. The translation of natural languages into programming languages became a signature in Merhi's work.

Atari Poetry IV extends the exploration on video games started by the artist in 1985. The game console is employed to show a very peculiar way to write/program and display poetry. Due to the important role of Atari on the advance of many technological concepts and devices, the use of this machine transcends the sense of nostalgia, coming into view as a powerful and meaningful icon of an everlasting era.

Collection: Orange County Museum of Art, California.

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