| Statement:
Since its exposure in 1953, DNA and
its applications have continued to surprise researches and the public
alike. The end of world hunger, longer life spans, and a disease-free
society are promises that have kept genetics at the forefront of
science. However, competition and financial greed have hindered
biotechnology’s progress while stirring up doubt over its
benefits. Often, researchers “race” to be innovators
in the field, with dreams of prestige, fame or wealth replacing
the desire to help society.
This project seeks to represent both the
lost purpose of biotechnology, as well as current, “mutated”
objectives. The background of the circular portion of my tree consists
of the normal sequence, a simple, single-stranded pattern put together
from the backsides of Monopoly money. Being the background, this
is representative of DNA being the foundation of our bodies and
biotechnology. Also, the original sequence is behind the mutated
sequence, just as the original idea to better civilization has taken
a backseat to corporate greed.
The mutated version was created using Monopoly
money to illustrate a duplication mutation of the original sequence.
It is the “evil” version of the original sequence in
that it represents the corruption associated with many involved
with genetics and biotechnology today. Similar to the old saying
that money does not grow on trees, DNA is also not a matter to be
taken for granted. The wonder and intricacies of DNA have been lost
by current and past misuse of it.
While it is true that DNA is available in
relatively massive amounts, it should not be used to further an
individual’s or a corporation’s bank account.
The base or trunk of the tree lists examples
of corruption mentioned in lecture of the Biotechnology and Society
class. Specifically these include the death of Jesse Gelsinger,
the many deaths occurring from Rezulin, the mislabeling of genetically
modified foods, and the scams associated with genetic testing for
breast cancer.
The tree is composed mainly of Monopoly money
arranged on poster board. Poster board and inkjet print comprise
the tree’s base, with duct tape to link the various words
together. Mainly the project required copious amounts of gluing
and cutting. Previously, I had never created much artwork, and it
was an especially new experience for me to combine science and art
together. Initially, it was difficult to think creatively because
I felt like I was supposed to be thinking logically or scientifically.
But once I realized that science as art wasn’t strictly confined
to chemistry textbook covers, I was able to create my artwork. |
