Human Hybrids Introduction

In our session with Kat, we were introduced to the second half of the unit, The Human Hybrid. A hybrid is created by combing two or more species of mixed origin. For this part of the unit, we have to 'use the concept of physical transformation as a point of inspiration, design a creature character to represent the theme of The Brave New World. The aim is to create a new understanding of beauty, one that is derived form creating a human hybrid that is a link between nature and beauty'. We have to de-construct, re-invent and present alternate representations of the cosmetic body.

The name 'Hybrid' is derived from the latin 'hybrids', which meant 'offspring of a tame sow and wild boar', or 'child of freeman and slave' etc. Hybrids are essentially a cross-breed, which can be produced by scientific modification of cells, or sexual reproduction of two breeds of species. Hybrids can be categorised into seven sections:

• Single Cross Hybrids- the result of two true breeding organisms. (F1 Hybrids - meaning Filial 1, or 'first offspring').
• Double Cross Hybrids - the result of two F1 Hybrids mating.
• Three-way Cross Hybrids - One F1 Hybrid mating with another of an inbred line.
• Triple-cross Hybrids - result from two three-way cross hybrids mating.
•  Population Hybrids - the crossing of plants or animals in population with another population, such as crosses between different breeds.
• Stable Hybrid - term often used in gardening/horticultural. 
• Hybrid species - a species evolving reproductive barriers against their own parent species.

Hybrids can occur through Plants, Mammals, Reptiles, Insects, Fish, and Birds. Examples of common hybrids are:

 - Sphynx Cat - a breed of hairless cat, created through selective breeding.

-Liger- a cross between a lion and a tiger.

-Mule- a cross between a donkey and a horse.

During our studies in this unit, I would like to look at real animal hybrids, as well as fantastical creatures in films, and their hybrids. I am going to study conceptual art and sculpture, as well as study anthropology and mythological creature books. I believe there is a high expectation when it comes to creating the hybrids, so I need to make sure that I am fully prepared and have completed extensive research, so that my hybrid is anatomically correct. 

Wikipedia (Hybrid) (no date) Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hybrid_(biology) (Accessed: 27 October 2015).