Some Ethical Issues in Artistic Research Involving (non-Human) Animals

This article examines ethical issues raised by artistic research involving non-human animals, with particular attention to the context of new interfaces for musical expression (NIME). Although animal ethics has been extensively discussed in scientific and philosophical domains, artistic and designoriented research communities have not always developed equally rigorous frameworks for evaluating the inclusion of animals in creative projects. Drawing on examples ranging from the historical account of the Katzenklavier to contemporary technologically mediated animal performances such as Cicada Canon, the article argues that research involving animals in NIME and related fields requires a specifically animal-centred ethical approach. It further argues that utilitarian justifications commonly invoked in laboratory animal research are not directly applicable in artistic research settings, that informed consent presents a foundational difficulty, and that methodological and evaluative rigour are especially important where claims are made about enrichment or interspecies communication. The article concludes with recommendations for animal welfare certification, collaboration with ethology experts, and a precautionary stance grounded in respect for other beings.