Submission ID 1622

 

Submission Title
AIRBORNE: BETULA PENDULA
Abstract
Airborne is based on an extensive exploration of contemporary microscopy as a creative tool and artistic intervention as a conduit for reaching audiences beyond the channels of conventional scientific publications. The two images were developed in collaboration with Dr Louise Hughes (Oxford Instruments) using SEM and Energy Dispersive x-ray Spectroscopy, to explore factors impacting on climate change revealing airborne particulates on plant samples collected across urban and remote locations in Europe. In this sample a seed from Betula pendula (Silver birch) was retrieved from around the petrol filler cap on my car revealed a complex accumulation of individual elements: Iron, Calcium, Potassium, Silicon, Aluminum, Magnesium. The highly detailed rendering of surface features of the seed with its rippled skin and trichome hairs, instil the image with a mysterious and autonomous animistic quality.
Authors

  • Rob Kesseler (Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts, London)
  • Louise Hughes ( Oxford Instruments )