Synthenesis

Synthenesis / Fara Peluso - Photo: Fara Peluso

Theme Exhibition

Exhibit

Synthenesis

Fara Peluso (DE/IT)

The Synthenesis project envisages a near-future scenario in which people will be able to grow spirulina algae as a food source in their daily lives, proposing how living machines can synthesise Spirulina pills to improve body and mental health.
The artwork depicts a hybrid organ of human and non-human body, synthesizing pearls of Spirulina. It employs a spherification reaction, enclosing Spirulina liquid in a gel membrane of sodium alginate and calcium chloride. After a few minutes, an outer layer is formed, creating flexible, edible Spirulina pills. Combining DIY biology with soft robotics, glassblowing, and bioplastic membranes, the artwork reflects on the values of future society and the relationship between humans, nature, and technology.
Synthenesis questions what we can do to shape the future, addressing topics of care, decision-making and empowerment. How can living machines grow food, be integrated into our spaces and rituals, and improve planetary health?

POSTCITY, Bunker

Tickets

Ticket //

POSTCITY Ticket, ONE DAY PASS, FESTIVALPASS, FESTIVALPASS+

  • Synthenesis

    Fara Peluso (IT/DE)

    The Synthenesis workshop explores how to build a DIY bioreactor for cultivating spirulina microalgae and producing pills. In this participatory format, participants will envision shaping the future by promoting collective practices of care and decision-making connected to well-being and empowerment.

  • Quo Artis

    Quo Artis is an international nonprofit organization based in Barcelona, founded in 2015, and dedicated to fostering connections between art, science, technology, and ecology. It serves as a conduit between professionals across these fields, curating, coordinating, and facilitating exploratory journeys, symposiums, exhibitions, and educational workshops. The foundation also oversees commissioned project development and conducts research at the intersection of art and the loss of biodiversity.

Credits

Partner: QuoArtis

This project has been developed and is presented in the context of Tilling Roots&Seeds. Tilling Roots&Seeds is co-funded by the Creative Europe Programme of the European Union.

Please note: The program for the Ars Electronica Festival 2025 is still in progress.
We are currently preparing all the information for the website and plan to put the full program online in the coming days – stay tuned!