How to design for the non-human other? As part of The Sex Plant Consultancy dr. Špela Petrič helped design new reproductive methodologies for her vegetal clients addressing problems such as bee extinction, infertility and infection (STD). In her artistic practice Špela combines natural sciences, new media and performance. This also shows in her current project; the launch of Naval Gazing, a 7,5 km kinetic structure in the North Sea intended as non-human architecture to facilitate a micro-ecology.
To visualize nutrients in soil, bacteria, fungi and plants, researcher Matthew D. Whiteside uses highly fluorescent nano particles, called quantum dots. With this novel technique we are able to see what is going on in below ground ecosystems; effectively, highlighting soil processes that would otherwise be dark and opaque. For example, how do plants and fungi exchange nutrients and carbon with one another throughout an ecosystem? No prior knowledge needed, Matthew will explain everything.
After the break Simeon Henry Goodwin will give a short talk about his sustainable fast food packaging made out of seaweed.
Information
Friday October 17th
Food at 19.00
Talk starts at 20.00
Mediamatic Fabriek, VOC-kade 10, Amsterdam
Ticket: €7,50 including a 9 weeks Mediamatic Membership allowing you to visit the expo anytime and attend events with discount. (NB food is not included) If you already have a membership you only pay €2,50! Buy your ticket here
Come early and have a meal served by Adams Appels, slow Mediterranean food.
From 19.00, price per meal €7,50 (also vegetarian)
About Biotalk
What are the social, cultural en technological implications of fungal and bio-based materials? And what possibilities do they offer for artists, designers, engineers, architects, scientists, farmers and chefs? Find out at Biotalk, a monthly lecture series with leading figures in the field of Bio Art, Science and Design.
