Stelarc, similar to the steps taken by Orlan, conducted a project that modified his body. His project, titled Extra Ear, involved forming an ear on his left arm that was capable of transmitting information. This form of body modification demonstrates how art can come in the of altering one's body, as Orlan and others have done before. While the concept behind his work is very intriguing, the actual modifying seems slightly extreme to me. However, it is admirable how far these artists will go for their work.
Eduardo Kac was also a figure heavily involved in biotechnology and its relation to the artistic realm. Kac conducted experiments with fluorescent genes. In 2000, Kac presented "Alba," the glowing rabbit. This rabbit was genetically modified with the fluorescent gene. This sparked other scientists to perform the same procedure but with fish. Fluorescent genes were injected into fish with the motive of marketing them as glowing fish and selling them in stores. However, those involved in genetically modifying these fish received a large amount of backlash. There were those questioning whether it is appropriate, or rather ethical, to utilize living creatures for artistic endeavors. In my opinion, I do not think it is ethical to genetically modify animals for purposes that are not advancing science towards cures or information that would greatly benefit the population. With the case of the fish for marketable purposes, I do not think that was ethical of the scientists that modified them.
Orlan, who has been mentioned in this course before with her medical procedures relating to her art. She utilized the technology of medical professional to propel her artistic visions. The connection between biotechnology and art is illustrated through Orlan's work. This is far different from the GFP being injected in the fish and rabbits because Orlan made the decision herself to go through with these procedures. Overall, looking at all of the various ways biotechnology and art are related and can be connected is very interesting.
Cascone, Sarah. "Artist Grows Third Ear." Artnet News. Artnet News, 13 Aug. 2015. Web. 09 May 2017.
Green Fluorescent Protein - Cool Uses - Alba. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 May 2017.
Levy, Ellen K. "Ellen_Levy_BioArt.pdf - 1 Defining Life Artists Challenge..." Defining Life: Artists Challenge Conventional Classifications Ellen K Levy. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 May 2017.
GFP BUNNY. N.p., n.d. Web. 09 May 2017.
"Contoversial Artist Orlan The Reincarnation of Saint-Orlan." Creative Mapping. N.p., 19 Nov. 2014. Web. 10 May 2017.
I also think that the body modifications done for the sake are art are taken a bit too far. However, like you I admire their dedication. It's one thing to be an artist, but doing something such as the "extra ear" is an entirely different thing to me which takes some serious commitment to ones work.
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