Installation views of InSitu, August 30-September 29, 2010
Davidson Gallery, Robert Wesleyan University, Rochester, NY
Description of the Exhibition:
This exhibition explored the theme of installation as practice. Two pieces dealing with genetics were included in the exhibition: Glass Skin and Human Nature.
Glass Skin is a 3D video sculpture which investigates the impact of modern genetics on self perception by exploring my own predisposition for skin cancer. In the work video of my skin plays through genetic code embossed in a cast glass tablet. The DNA code pertains to specific proteins found to be associated with Melanoma.
Human Nature, seeks to draw a parallel between spontaneous mutations that occur in DNA and our natural tendency to make mistakes in daily tasks. Using a manual typewriter I transcribed part of human chromosome 11. Errors were identified using a computer algorithm, output on velum, and overlaid on the original typed code to reveal the mistakes made. The code was displayed in duplicate, once in red and another in green. Red signified our common perception that an error or mutation in DNA is unadvantageous or harmful. Green represented an error’s potential benefits such as creating new opportunities through the generation of genetic diversity (allowing the process of evolution to occur). This project was intended to draw connections between the principles of genetic evolution and our drive for progress and increased productivity.