zoë breed uses bioluminescent algae as bio-pixels to create a living light show

uncovering the potential of bioluminescent algae as a medium

Zoë Breed unveils Algae Alight, an exploration into the potential of bioluminescent algae as a dynamic living medium. The project introduces a Living Light Interface, translating digital input into the biological realm. Within this setup, causing no harm to any organisms, the inherent light-producing abilities of the algae combine with programmed vibrational patterns to create a mesmerizing living light show within a liquid culture. Algae Alight stands as the first algae imaging system that offers real-time interaction with living microalgae, providing a unique and challenging experience of observing microorganisms without the aid of visual tools like microscopes. The installation’s algorithms are finely tuned to allow the algae time to rest and recharge, preventing overstimulation. This consideration ensures a more sustainable and ethical approach to integrating living entities into design. 

Zoë Breed translates digital input into the biological realm

Bioluminescence, the emission of light by living organisms, serves various purposes in nature, from deterring predators to providing camouflage. These organisms are mainly found in the marine environment, where it is estimated that more than 75% of them have the ability to produce light. Zoë Breed’s M.Sc. graduation research specifically focuses on harnessing the potential of bioluminescent algae as a medium — notably the microalgae species Pyrocystis fusiformis. Naturally found in tropical and subtropical oceanic regions, these dinoflagellates exhibit a remarkable capacity for light emission.

Extensive research into the natural habitat of Pyrocystis fusiformis informed the delicate integration of these microorganisms into an artificial environment, without compromising their well-being. Various factors such as fluid dynamics, stimulation methods, intensity, volume, and container shape were meticulously studied to predict and control the resulting bioluminescent lighting patterns. The culmination of this research manifests in the Living Light Interface, an algae imaging system translating digital input into the biological realm.

project info:

name: Algae Alight
designer: Zoë Breed

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