Špela Petrič

CTCAG – recognition was a meticulously structured lecture-performance, which aimed to shed light on the many aspects of genetic testing involving the author as the subject under investigation. She tested her DNA for the presence of a detrimental mutation In the BRCA2 gene, the likelihood of which was increased because of her mother’s ovarian cancer.

An introduction to the discourse was made in the gallery by a representative of GenePanet, a Slovene based company that offers genetic testing of several genetically linked diseases, traits, and talents. A few members of the audience were offered genetic testing at the gallery’s expense; however they had to decide upon it and provide their DNA samples (by filling a cup with their saliva) on the spot.

Two days later, the lecture-performance was held in a laboratory at the Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana. The audience entered the laboratory and a technical assistant gave a short introduction on the molecular methods involved in testing the subject’s DNA for BRCA2 mutations. Afterwards, a member of the audience was asked to perform the final step of the procedure, visualizing the results. The gel electrophoresis with the DNA samples was projected in real time on the walls of the lab.

2011/ Authors: Špela Petrič / Collaborators: Dejan Koban (video), Andreja Kopač (dramaturgy) / Acknowledgments: Savica Soldat, dr. Petra Hudler, Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana and GenePlanet / The project is supported by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Slovenia and the Municipality of Ljubljana Department for Culture

Produced by Kapelica Gallery