Genetic Herb Knife

Genetic Herb Knife

Installation 2022
Made during Visual Artist-in-Residence at Harbourfront Centre Toronto.
Swinging video

Media is talking about the upcoming era of designer babies. I really don’t believe in the stereotypical features of nationalities, but during the three months artist residency, far away from home, I had time to reflect who I am, where I come from and how I interract with other people. What are the so-called Finnish spices that I carry with me?

If I would use the genetic scissors CRISPR CAS-9 to design my offspring and choose them to be talkative, outgoing, relaxed and better in small talk – would I also interfere their national heritage? How communites will change, if we all choose qualities from (what we believe to be) the greener side of the fence?