Transgenic art and science in Eduardo Kac’s work: ethical issues acknowledged

Abstract

The rise of the biotechnical and genomic revolution has motivated contemporary artists to explore the use of scientific methods as a medium for art-making. The application of these ground-breaking methods within the realm of contemporary art allows for the distortion that exists between life sciences and the imagination to become a reality. This practice is known as transgenic art. With biotechnology as the new playing-field for art comes a myriad of dangerous implications, ethical issues, questions of authorship and responsibilities. The transgenic artworks of Eduardo Kac entitled GFP Bunny (2000) and Genesis (1999) form the basis of the research. The main question posed in this research explores the purpose of transgenic art and the unavoidable impact thereof on society. Social awareness of ethical issues surrounding this type of art-making is addressed. The poignancy of the study lies in debates deliberately introduced by the artist, but also unintended controversial issues that surface from the creation of living artworks.