The SVA Bio Art Lab is a fusion of a 19th-century cabinet of curiosities with a state-of-the-art biotechnology laboratory, housing specimen collections, aquariums, a variety of microscopes, and an art and science library. In this residency, 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, such as fungi and bacterial cellulose, among others. Discussion topics range from bioethics and genetic manipulation to climate change and sustainability. Each resident has a private studio space and access to various sculpture and printing facilities in the department. The residency culminates in a public exhibition. Students may work in any media, including the performing arts.
The program is led by artist Suzanne Anker, chair of the BFA Fine Arts Department, and Tarah Rhoda, manager of the Bio Art Laboratory. Faculty and former speakers include artists, scientists and museum professionals such as Heather Dewey-Hagborg, Oron Catts, Thyrza Goodeve and François-Joseph Lapointe.
PREREQUISITE: A portfolio review is required for this program.
