The Junker Series.

Hidden Values Inside The Goldmine. 2003

Hidden Values Inside The Goldmine is a series of generative net artworks created from Stanza’s own DNA, sequenced in 2003. The works transform genetic information into audiovisual compositions, exploring the human genome as a source of data, imagery and artistic possibility.

The Junker series (Nos. 1–8) examines the chromosomes through software that maps and reassembles genetic information into nonlinear digital environments. Some works incorporate phonetic and randomly generated sound, creating immersive compositions that translate biological code into evolving audiovisual experiences. The works can also be presented as gallery installations, projected or displayed across high-definition screens.

The project considers DNA as a biological operating system: a complex code of approximately 3.3 billion DNA base pairs that carries information essential to human life. At the time, large sections of the genome were commonly described as “junk DNA” because their functions were not understood. Stanza uses this scientific uncertainty as a starting point to question how we interpret code, value information and distinguish between what is understood and what remains unknown.

Created at the intersection of biotechnology, generative art and net art, the series anticipates contemporary debates about genetic data, personal identity, ownership and the increasing availability of biological information. By transforming his own genetic material into an open digital archive, Stanza explores the boundaries between the biological body and its computational representation.

Technical and exhibition information

The original online works were developed as NETART using Adobe Shockwave, which was discontinued in 2019. Custom software versions are available for gallery presentation, in high-definition resolution (1920 × 1080)...the netart version still work.

Availability: Each work is available as a unique artwork, including bespoke software and computer files.

Scientific acknowledgement: DNA testing and sequencing were undertaken at the MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, with advice from scientific colleagues.

Keywords: Generative art, net art, DNA, biotechnology, genetic data, code, audiovisual installation, digital archives.

 

EXHIBITED AT:-

Test Portal Gallery Amsterdam Holland 2009
Novosibirsk Exhibition. State Museum, Siberia. 2007
Dana Centre. London 2006.Code by Zero01 Canada. 2005
Jerwood Space, Cut and Splice. London. 2005
Scope Art Fair UK 2004
Samsung Media Centre Korea 2004
Futuresonic 04 UK 2004
Soundtoys at ICA London
Jerwood Space, Cut and Splice. London. 2005
EvoMUSART 4th Hungary 2005
Haifa Museum, Israel 2004

 

DNA Junker. 1
Stanza DNA net art
DNA Junker. 2
Stanza DNA net art
DNA Junker. 3
Stanza DNA net art
DNA Junker. 4
Steve Tanza
DNA Junker. 5

Stanza DNA net art

 

Other in the series:-

Junker Corrupted Soul Triptych. 6

Junker Dna Vocal Genesis Triptych. 7

Junker Empty Intelligence Triptych. 8

Steve Tanza DNA artrwork

Inproper Negligence. 100- 120 cm artwork.

..Stanza DNA getting sequenced in 2003 and image on right is Stanza DNA on the end of a stick.

Steve Tanza
Stanza DNA getting sequenced in 2003 and image on right is Stanza DNA on the end of a stick

1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5 + 6 + 7 +8