Science, Social Controversy and Art: An Interdisciplinary Exchange
Investigators: Sean Caulfield (project leader), University of Alberta; Liz Ingram, University of Alberta
Project Summary: This project brings together an interdisciplinary team of scholars and visual artists to examine the complex relationship which exists between contemporary art production, popular culture, technological innovation, and policy debate, with a particular focus on stem cell research. The project involves an in-depth analysis of the impact of popular culture and art on public perceptions of biotechnology and the resulting influence on public policy. Using a case-study approach, scholars will examine how different areas of biotechnology, including cloning, genetics and regenerative medicine, are reflected in popular culture representations and will assess how the nature of those representations map onto public discourse and perceptions regarding that technology. These elements will be considered in view of the broader policy environment, and the nature of emerging connections will be explored. Alongside this research, artists will produce a series of original artworks that will challenge the academic community and the broader public to consider the ways in which life science technologies are shaping contemporary society. The translational activities associated with this project will seek to increase public awareness regarding current issues and realities in biotechnology, while also encouraging critical assessment of popular culture representations of biotechnology.
Benefits: The close collaboration between scholars and artists will culminate in at least two public art exhibits accompanied by presentations and/or workshops associated with key national and international stem cell research community events, publication of an Exhibition Catalogue featuring reproductions of the artworks created and articles from participants, and an academic article submitted to a major journal. These diverse and high profile activities will allow research outputs to be disseminated across the academic realm, cultural sector and the general public, ensuring that the critical ethical, legal and social issues (ELSI) raised by biotechnology, including stem cell research and genetics, are examined by a broad spectrum of Canadian society.
Term: 2009-2011