Jože Slaček: DNK umetnosti in nesmrtnosti

Jože Slaček
The DNA of Art and Immortality
Friday, 16 November 2018, at 4 p. m.

predavanje KIBLIX 2018

This biotechnological installation comprises a collection of DNA samples kept in hand-made miniature containers, accompanied by visual depictions of fractals, where DNA sequences are expresses through mathematical functions. DNA is a fractal. DNA can be drawn in various images and patterns. When scientists create DNA maps, DNA is shown in static diagrams. The data from these diagrams is used to insert numbers into mathematical functions, or the data translates itself into functions, which are then visualized in fractal graphics.
Project The DNA of Art and Immortality consists of carriers of DNA profiles, such as hair, nails, saliva, bits of skin, teeth, and body hair. All of the donated samples are sealed into protective containers and kept in separate reliquaries. They will be kept there until a time, when science will enable the use of DNA technology for re-birth. This inevitably raises questions: who are we? What does it really mean to be human? By human, do we refer to our bodies, our knowledge and skills, or our desires and passions, which have been shaped by our awareness and life experiences?
Our ancestors used to put everyday objects next to the deceased in their graves, as well as other things, which were supposed to serve them in the next life. This is why in the future, the DNA samples will be added digital records, which are crucial for the re-conception of a person and which make it possible to continue from the point, where the present life stopped.
One strand of DNA from one single cell contains enough information to clone an entire organism. Obviously, understanding DNA allows us to understand much about life and the universe around us.