Econtinuum

Econtinuum by Thijs Biersteker in collaboration with Stefano Mancuso, 2021

Econtinuum is an installation created by the artist Thijs Biersteker in collaboration with the plant neurobiologist and botany researcher Stefano Mancuso which reveals the communication system between trees.

The artwork reproduces two huge and dense root systems – made of transparent recycled plastic by 3D printers – through which a “conversation” takes place through electrical, light impulses and chemical signals.

The communication between the trees is controlled by an eco-ai (artificial intelligence) system that generates interaction in real time and is based on scientific parameters deriving from years of research in the field of plant communication.

This network of roots are able to measure the air quality, humidity, levels of CO2 and organic compounds present inside the room and use this data to generate a conversation as if they were in the ground. The two trees “talk” about the biometric changes and cooperate to keep each other in balance, they send each other electrical alarm signals when they warn of dangers, they share nutrients.

Approaching the work, the public participates into the conversation. The sensors included in the installation, in fact, perceive the presence and behavior of visitors. The roots react to their presence, feel their movements and consequently modify the communication flow.

The visitor therefore has the opportunity to be part of this continuum and experience a deeper, symbiotic, relationship with nature.

More info about the artwork: https://thijsbiersteker.com/

Econtinuum by Thijs Biersteker in collaboration with Stefano Mancuso, originally commissioned by NXT Museum Amsterdam, sustainably produced at Woven studio (2021).

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Commissioned by Nxt Museum (Amsterdam, Netherlands)
Artist: Thijs Biersteker
Science Collaboration: Prof. Stefano Mancuso
Production: Woven Studio
Head of Studio: Sophie de Krom
Sculpting: Thijs Biersteker
3D printing recycled plastics: The New Raw
Creative Coding – generative A.I.: y=f(x) lab
Soundscape: End of Time & Scoped Audio
Studio Assistant: Lode Dijkers