A collaboration between art and science to cultivate microorganisms
The artist Dasha Plesen, nicknamed the “Mold Queen,” explores the fascinating boundaries between artistic creation and scientific microbiology. Fascinated by medicine since her childhood, she uses petri dishes as actual canvases to cultivate living microorganisms. She introduces spores and bacteria, which she combines with sugary elements, colored sprinkles, and fuzz. This organic and dynamic raw material progressively transforms to give rise to unique and evolving patterns.
Colored pigments to influence the metabolic processes of bacteria
The visual artist is not a mere observer; she actively intervenes in the development of her living microbial paintings. She adds specific pigments that chemically interact with the metabolic processes of each species of fungus or bacteria. This innovative technique makes it possible to directly modify and influence the color palette during the growth of the organisms. The resulting visual offers vibrant shades and completely unexpected color combinations as the days go by.
An aesthetic of the ephemeral that redefines our perception of the living
Each piece presents itself as a temporary work of art in constant metamorphosis, escaping the absolute control of its creator. Dasha Plesen contents herself with meticulously setting the initial conditions of the medium before letting nature alone determine the final image. This poetic approach challenges our traditional reference points and invites the public to reconsider the hidden beauty of the infinitely small. Her organic creations thus prove that bacteria can become formidable partners in graphic design.
