20/20 Vision, Second Edition

The Art of Contemporary University Printmaking

April Katz

“Myriad Susceptibilities” is part of a series of prints I made in response to my 1991 breast cancer diagnosis. Additionally, as a descendant of Ashkenazi Jews I had a higher risk factor for breast cancer and so was encouraged to have genetic testing in 2004. These experiences altered my sense of self and led to my examination of genetics and cellular biology. Through my research I became interested in the ethical and medical issues related to genetic engineering. These experiences and study prompted me to create prints that depict environmental, cultural and biological influences on identity.

Use of the word myriad within the prints’ titles refers to Myriad, the company that owns the patent for BRCA1 and 2, specific breast cancer-affiliated genes. The work questions the ethics related to corporate ownership of genetic material.

These themes are metaphorically conveyed through images that include cellular structures, scientific visual notations, text from Myriad’s patent for the BRCA gene, mammograms, alchemy illustrations, and Yiddish letters. Through printmaking I am able to layer this information, text and visuals, in order to imply the interaction of these elements with one another.