Diatoms of North AmericaWe are particularly interested in diatoms and the role they play both for the Baltic Sea ecosystem and for the people in this region. We ask ourselves how we might collaborate with these organisms in a co-design process. For example, how might we create structures or artifacts to which diatoms can attach themselves? In addition, we want to explore how we can develop a deeper understanding of diatoms and raise awareness of their crucial role in our own survival.
In this immersive experience, the scales are flipped: diatoms, a little-studied microalgae responsible for generating the oxygen in every fourth breath we take, are magnified to become larger-than-humans. This allows us to encounter these microscopic organisms at eye level, engaging with them through a speculative yet research-informed narrative delivered from the diatoms’ perspective. In this 360-degree screening, humans are invited to witness the incredible diversity, beauty, and power of these normally invisible for human-eyes life forms. The experience incorporates breathing exercises and guided meditation, prompting reflection on the oxygen we consume and the tiny life forms we owe it to.
Designed to stimulate all the senses, this installation features immersive sound and video, tactile interaction with handmade diatom-shaped cushions and a marine-scented diffuser.
We are very happy that so many students and faculty had the opportunity to engage with our installation.
A project by Hitomi Asaka, Juni Neyenhuys, Carla Rotenberg & Aada Teittinen. October 2024, Materials & Living Systems Course at Aalto University, Helsinki.
Special thanks to interviewee Dr. Sonja Repetti, University of Helsinki, microscopic material by Alvaro E. Migotto, Center for Marine Biology, University of São Paulo.
