LIVING COLUMNS

As humans, we play a critical role in the development of bacteria in our bodies and environment through our dietary choices. Additionally, we rely on bacteria to produce essential food components. The complex interactions within food systems hold significant importance in shaping our current ecological reality. This project is based on observing personal eating habits and their relationship with the microbiome. Inspired by biologist Winogradsky's technique, I created an installation composed of glass aquariums. Inside these aquariums, I formed bacterial ecosystems using mud from a lake and food waste from individuals with different dietary habits. Through visuals created by bacteria consuming our food waste over months of bacterial development, we communicate with the audience. These sculptural pieces, containing live bacterial ecosystems, offer viewers a constantly evolving and non-static visual experience.