From the Laboratory to the Studio: Interdisciplinary Practices in Bio Art

From anatomical studies to landscape painting to the biomorphism of surrealism, the biological realm has historically provided a significant resource for numerous artists. More recently, bio art has become a term referring to intersecting domains of the biological sciences and their incorporation into the visual arts. Of particular importance in bio art is to summon awareness of the ways in which advancing biotechnologies alter social, ethical and cultural values in society.

This interdisciplinary residency will take place in the SVA Bio Art Laboratory, a fusion of a centuries-old cabinet of curiosities with a state-of-the-art biotechnology laboratory, which houses specimen collections, aquariums and a variety of microscopes, as well as an art and science library. Students will be introduced to the emerging field of biological arts through hands-on laboratory practices and discussions. Demonstrations include microscopic imaging, growing 2D and 3D biomaterials, painting with bacteria, culturing organisms and designing micro-ecosystems, working with bioluminescence, bioplastics and molecular gastronomy techniques. Discussion topics range from bioethics, genetic manipulation, climate change and sustainability.

Each participant has a private studio space located in the heart of New York City's Chelsea gallery district, and access to various sculpture and printing facilities in the BFA Fine Arts Department. The residency culminates in a public exhibition. Students may work in any media, including the performing arts. The program is led by artist and chair of the BFA Fine Arts Department, Suzanne Anker, and Tarah Rhoda, manager of the Bio Art Laboratory. Faculty and former visiting speakers include artists, scientists and museum professionals such as Heather Dewey-Hagborg, Oron Catts, Thyrza Goodeve and Francois-Joseph Lapointe.

Note: A portfolio is required for review and acceptance to this program.

For further information or questions regarding SVA's Artist Residency Programs, email residency@sva.edu.

SVA’s Artist Residency programs are hosted by the Division of Continuing Education.

For additional courses and workshops please visit https://sva.edu/academics/continuing-education