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In
January 2006 I was funded by Arts Council (Yorkshire) to conduct preliminary
research into creating a multi-disciplinary exhibition which explores
issues surrounding GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms) through a
range of accessible and inspiring artworks. The intended project included
the initiation of a number of novel collaborations between artists,
scientists, social scientists and other professionals who are engaging
with these issues in a broad context.
As this exploratory work has progressed I have had a chance to develop
my ideas through extensive reading and discussions with a number of
potential collaborators. I have approached a number of individuals
and been in active dialogue with Nick Bingham (Open University, Department
of Geography) Dr Bron Szersynski (IEPPP, Lancaster), Professor Guy
Cooke (Linguistics, OU), Dr Suman Sahai (Genecampaign, India), Dr
Angela Hilbeck (Ecostrat, Switzerland), Dr Michael Antonio (Human
Genetics, Kings), Becky Price, Genewatch UK and Dr Wayne Martindale
(Sheffield Hallam, Food Science). I have also developed a field panel
of curators, researchers and academics who are offering ongoing support,
information and advice.
Through my research process it has become clear that the original
model proposed was not flexible or creative enough to enable the cross-fertilisation
of ideas and creative practice that this subject requires. My interest
has this become more focussed on inventing an organic, collaborative
developmental structure for the project which enables the interdisciplinarity
and hybrid nature of this subject to be sustained rather than deferring
to the one artist/one other model.
I am currently seeking further funding to experiment with creating
an Arena of Coexistence where a number of invited and interested parties
from different backgrounds and disciplines would meet in the round
to cross fertilise ideas, thoughts and perspectives on GM in the context
of Coexistence. These ideas can be developed by the participating
artists, performers and other creatives in partnership or collaboration.
The idea is that these collaborations or creative dialogues may take
many forms from artist-other mentoring relationships through artwork,
performance or composition based on existing or emerging research,
to participatory projects involving others from outside the group.
This process would be supported by myself and a core group. I am currently
exploring the notion of Coexistence through a correspondence poem
with Alec Finlay and developing the arena structure with Nick Bingham.
In July 2006 I was invited to be a visiting research fellow at Open
University (Geography faculty) in order to continue this work.
For more information on Coexistence and if you are interested in taking
part please contact me.
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