Genetics
These works reflect my personal experiences with breast cancer in 1991 and genetic testing in 2004. These events altered my sense of self and prompted me to investigate genetics and cellular biology. Through this research I became interested in the ethical issues related to genetic engineering and genetic ownership.
Use of the word “myriad” within the prints’ titles refers to Myriad, the company that owns the patent for BRCA1 and 2, which are specific breast cancer-affiliated genes. Text from the actual patent held by Myriad is included in the BRCA2 print series. In some of the prints I include images of the arctic flounder and tomato whose genes have been combined to create frost-resistant tomatoes. These symbols reference the impact of bioengineering on our bodies and environment. Through printmaking I layer these symbols to convey the inter-relatedness of all these factors within each individual.