Research——Radical Bio-Issue 2

Bio-Art

Bio-Art practice was widely recognized from the end of the last century to the beginning of this century. Bio-Art aimed to highlight the themes and beauty of biology, to address and question philosophical concepts or trends in science, and to express the artist’s insight through humor or criticality. Early Bio-Art had a strong sense of experimentation, but in fact Bio-Art created a relatively loose ethical environment in which to practice those controversial biotechnologies and issue studies.

The UK has always been at the forefront of biological research, thanks to its investment in the subject. On the one hand, it is supported by research in higher education institutions, such as MA material futures and MA bio design at Central Saint Martins, and on the other hand, the UK has a vibrant private biology community, with individuals and institutions building their own labs in garages and conducting their own research in the form of biohackers. There are also a number of private biocommunities in the UK. Both of these have contributed to the development of bioart in the UK.

Professor Stelarc has implanted himself with an ear prosthesis in his project “Ear On Arm,” which explores a potentially transhumanist future in which humans can augment their bodies through medical technology and even connect to electronic systems to become organic cyborgs. Such topics explore our definition of the body in a post-humanist context, while allowing the audience to visualize the potential impact of the “misuse” of medical technology.

Professor Stelarc with his work “Ear On Arm”

The contemporary practice of bioart occupies a very important place. The practice of bioart, “form opens up the material”, incorporates organisms and organisms into the system of artistic expression and creates a distinctive aesthetic and communication. Bioart practice is often strongly technically and socially critical, which means that it serves as a link between the public and professionals, spreading the human spirit and emotions into a wider material vehicle.