Week 6, Laura Ponce, DESMA9
Biotechnology influences art concepts by offering new tools and mediums for creative expression. Artists can harness biotechnologies like genetic engineering, tissue culture, or bioinformatics to explore themes of identity, nature, and the human condition in unprecedented ways. This integration of science and art challenges traditional concepts while pushing the boundaries of artistic innovation.
The passage in our agenda illustrates the cross between science and art through the exploration of classification and creativity. Levy highlights how scientific discoveries, such as the work of Carl Richard Woese and Lynn Margulis, influence art by challenging established notions of life and identity (Levy, n.d.). This connection underscores a broader cultural interest in how biotechnology shapes our perceptions of life (Levy, n.d.).
Discovery of the DNA double helix – 65 years on. Nordic Biosite. (2023, January 31). https://nordicbiosite.com/blog/discovery-of-the-dna-double-helix-65-years-on
Bio art at the cellular and molecular level involves the manipulation and exploration of biological materials, such as cells, DNA, and proteins, to create artworks that reflect on the nature of life, genetics, and biotechnology. These artworks, often a disadvantage to the species being tested on, can involve genetic engineering, tissue culture, or other biotechnological processes to explore themes such as identity, evolution, and the relationship between humanity and the natural world. A quick example of this is Marta de Menezes’ butterfly project. In this task, Menezes modified the wing patterns of live butterflies (Vesna, n.d.). Although interesting, we should note that this alteration made holes in the wings of the butterflies. Joe Davis stands as a pioneer in bioart due to his interdisciplinary approach that encompasses a wide range of media and techniques, including molecular biology and bioinformatics. Another shocking work that was mentioned in Professor Vesna’s lecture was Davis’ use of jazz music on E.coli (Vesna, n.d.).
.
Lawrence, N., (2020, May 1) The Bible on genetically modified organisms (gmos). Hoshana Rabbah Blog. https://hoshanarabbah.org/blog/2020/05/01/the-bible-on-genetically-modified-organisms-gmos/
The film, Planet of the Apes (1968), offers a more in-depth example of biotechnology and art through its imaginative exploration of genetic manipulation and the blurring of boundaries between humans and animals. The film shows a dystopian future where apes have evolved to possess human-like intelligence, raising profound questions about the ethics of genetic engineering and the consequences of manipulating the natural order (Schaffner, 1968).
Kathy High's ethical treatment of retired genetically modified rats used in experiments underscores a compassionate approach to bioart. Her work not only advocates for animal welfare but also invites audiences to reconsider the ethical implications of scientific research within the context of artistic expression (Vesna, n.d.)
Citations:
Levy, E. K. (n.d.). Defining Life: Artists Challenge Conventional Classifications.
Vesna, V. (2013, September 18). 5 bioart pt1 1280x720. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PaThVnA1kyg&t=396s
Vesna, V. (2012, May 17). 5 bioart PT2. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MdSt-Hjyi2I&list=PL9DBF43664EAC8BC7&t=323s
Planet of the apes. (1968). [Film].
Schaffner, J. F. Planet of the apes. (1968). [Film].
Hi Laura,
ReplyDeleteI really loved the broad range of topics you talked about in your blog. I enjoyed the input you had about the butterfly wings and how if we are not careful, we can have impacts on life with the experiments we perform associated with art. I also enjoyed reading about the relation you made between the content and the Planet of the Apes film from 1968. In terms of ethics then, would you say there is a certain line that is drawn between ethical bio-art and nonethical bio-art? For example, would genetically manipulating flowers and breeding them for the sake of creating aesthetically pleasing flowers for humans nonethical? Great post!
Hi Laura! I really enjoyed reading your blog. I wanted to comment on a point you brought up of Marta de Menezes’ butterfly project. Although extremely interesting and could be seen as a great work of creative art, it did indeed result in the butterfly's wings having holes. I think this is where the ethical issues of genetic engineering come to play because although it's done in the name of art, at the end of the day, the butterflies are still getting harmed. For now it's butterflies but what about when artists take it further? I think this is what fascinates and scares me at the same time.
ReplyDelete