The Scientific Lab as Studio/The Studio as Scientific Lab: Exploring Practice-Led Microbial Bioart in a Decolonial Context
Date
2022-09-16
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Arts Research Africa
Abstract
This paper discusses the field of bioart, which explores the
intersection of art and biotechnology. It raises questions about
life, bioethics, and environmental interactions. The author’s
praxis involves hands-on experimentation with living and nonliving
materials in scientific labs, resulting in artistic outcomes.
The concept of “intra-action” is explored, emphasising a
reciprocal relationship between the artist and the material.
The paper highlights the increasing collaboration between
artists and scientists, leading to the establishment of bioart
labs and art-science programs. The author’s own bioart praxis
involves working with bacteria and yeast to create biofibers
resembling human skin, which are then used to produce casts
referencing colonial histories. The challenges and experimental
nature of working with living materials are also discussed.