Advanced Workshop in Artistic Practice and Transdisciplinary Research: Topics in Biological Arts, Ethics, and Automation (Spring 2024)

Instructor

Matej Vakula

TA

Juan Hurtado Salazar

Units

U / G

Lab Fee

Per-term $75 fee after Add Date; SMACT students are exempt

Credit

3-3-6 U / 3-3-3 G

Schedule

TR 9:30am-12:30pm

Location

TBA

Examines artistic practice as a form of critical inquiry and knowledge production. Offers opportunity to develop art as a means for addressing the social, cultural, and ecological consequences of technology, to build bridges between industry and culture, and to challenge the boundaries between public and private, and human and non-human. Provides instruction in evaluating models of experimentation, individual research, and collaboration with other disciplines in the arts, culture, science, and technology. Supports the development of individual and collective artistic research projects. Additional work required of students taking the graduate version.

Bioart is an interdisciplinary field that explores the intersection of art and biology, bridging the gap between science, technology, and artistic expression. This graduate-level course introduces students to the theoretical foundations and practical techniques of bioart, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and ethical considerations in the creation of bio-inspired artworks. Through a combination of theoretical discussions, hands-on bio lab work, studio practice, and guest lectures from experts in the field, students will gain a deep understanding of the historical context, ethical implications, and cutting-edge applications of bioart including DNA origami and Tissue printing.

Course Objectives:

1. Understand the historical context and evolution of bioart as an art form.
2. Explore the ethical considerations and social implications of bioart.
3. Acquire practical skills and techniques for creating bio-inspired artworks.
4. Engage in critical discussions on the intersection of art and biology.
5. Collaborate with peers to develop innovative bioart projects.
6. Analyze and interpret bioartworks from various perspectives.
7. Develop a strong foundation for future research in bioart.

Prerequisites: 4.301 or 4.302 or permission of instructor