SELF-REPRODUCTION, 2017

Please note: The piece is, and will be supplied, unframed

SELF-REPRODUCTION is based on one of the first paintings of Laibach Kunst, entitled "Red Metal Worker", created in 1981. The original painting is in private collection. Laibach created a replica of it in 2018.

Copies do not reproduce themselves, there are a large number of tools and different factors besides DNA that make this process possible. However, it is the structure of the DNA in an artistic work that holds the information for organising the process.

Let us clarify the semantic difference between the two terms, namely self-replication and self-reproduction as, although they are often treated as synonymous, there is actually a major difference between the two. Self-replication (the word is derived from the Latin replica) means a faithful (molecular) copy, while self-reproduction refers to the statistical process of making very similar things. Thus, cells self-reproduce while molecules self-replicate. This is not just a semantic issue, as the processes of self-reproduction, which are less precise, started first in early evolution and preceded the processes of self-replication, which require more complex control and regulation.

Self-reproduction is rightly considered to be the main driver of the evolution of life on Earth as well as in the arts. Art evolves over time through patterns of repetition: one generation of paintings gives rise to another generation of paintings; one series of motifs gives rise to another series of motifs. This is the subtle, multi-layered thread that connects the present works of art with all that have gone before and all that are to come. 

Like many artists Picasso was known to create multiple versions of the same painting, often with only slight variations between each one. This practice was part of his artistic process and allowed him to explore different interpretations and nuances of a particular subject or composition.

In addition to a replica of the original painting by the Red Metal Worker, Laibach has also created many different versions (reproductions) of this motif. But the present work, titled SELF-REPRODUCTION exists in only four copies. 

Terms and details:

Upon prior request, it is possible to view artwork live at a Laibach WTC location in Ljubljana, Slovenia. If you are interested in doing so, please write to wtc.support@laibach.org. 

The listed price includes 9,5% value-added tax (VAT). If you are located outside the EU, or are a legal entity that is part of EU reverse charge system, you may take this into account when submitting your offer.

For all other issues, the Terms of service of the Laibach WTC online store apply.