Bioluminescence in Art
Bioluminescence is a phenomenon expressed by a few select organisms such as some types of squids, jellyfish, and the more commonly known dinoflagellate algae. A chemical reaction occurs when the luciferin in the species reacts with oxygen. This produces the soft glowing light.
Sadly, the majority of the human population has never had the opportunity to witness this beautiful sight. The cool subtle light emitted by bioluminescent organisms is only able to be seen in beaches or the deep waters of the ocean.
This is changing as a few artist scientists have been experimenting with bioluminescence in order to convey their message to the public. An example of this is Artist Hunter Cole, who, with her Living Lights Exhibit presented bioluminescent bacteria growing in agar plates. Arranging the bacteria in an artistic manner, Hunter Cole was able to give the audience a distinct feel of wonder and awe as the images expressed meaning and ambiguity.
Another example of Bioluminescence in Art comes from Dr. Siouxsie Wiles, a pink-haired scientist who led an exhibition named Biolumination II where she invited artists to pain bioluminescent images on agar plates. From Pictures of Animals to political activism, bioluminescence served as an unusual medium for the artists to express themselves.
This unusual merge of science and art is just one out of the many possible outcomes in the BioArt field. It is a promise of how Art and Technology can one day be integrated with one another. It serves as a reminder to young people all over the world that you can be both a scientist and an artist. You can culture bacteria while painting a portrait of your favorite animal. You can be technical yet creative at the same time.
While this art medium isn’t as well known as say, graphite, or oils, it is a medium that has the ability to be made into beautiful art regardless.
Written by Mia Cardenas, Blogger at Girl Genius Magazine.
