Art Creation and Human Reproduction
Art Creation and Human Reproduction

Summary/Abstract: The article is about performance IMMACULATE (2020) by Casey Jenkins focused on problems of queer reproduction. The artist intended to live stream an act of self-insemination every month during ovulation until conception. The author provides critical analysis and interpretation of the performance in the context of pretence and authenticity of the artist’s actions. Flowingly, the author discusses deliberate blurring of boundaries between artist’s life and art, between human reproduction and artistic creation, and explains the relationship between process of creation and its artwork. Finally, the author discusses possible objections to IMMACULATE including issue that a child may be conceived as an artwork. The core of this controversy starts from welding of art creation and procreation. However, resigning from real insemination does not have to undermine the authenticity of art performance or it can make it even more authentic. The author emphasizes the moral aspect of artistic decision-making either in the context of authenticity of art creation or the relational dimension of art where any artistic action taken towards other humans is significant.

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