Center for Plant Immigrant Integration explores the relationship between plants and bacteria as a metaphor for human migration to Europe. The project builds upon the research of Prof. Sofie Goormachtig (VIB—UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology) exploring soybean cultivation in Flanders, aims at providing a high-protein crop and an eco-friendly meat alternative for the future. Her research especially focuses on the interactions of soybeans with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the soil. As an Asian artist who works and lives in Europe, Kuang-Yi Ku thinks the soybean (an Asian plant) significantly resonates with his own racial identity. This inspired him to explore the similarities between the plant-microbe research and the integration of immigrants in European societies.
Biography
Credits
Scientist: Sofie Goormachtig – VIB
Scientific assistance: Lena Vlaminck, Judith van Dingenen – VIB
Introductory video: Berend van Rossum
Graphic design: Yu-Tzu Huang
Research assistance: Yu-Chun Lo
Concept video: Jian-Da Huang
Performer: Sean Fisher
Costume design: Chia-Wei Tien
Prop design: Hung Lu Chan, Hsin Min Chan
Center for Plant Immigration Integration was commissioned by Gluon within the framework of STUDIOTOPIA, a project co-funded by Creative Europe Program of the European Union. With the kind support of VIB and National Culture and Arts Foundation.
Funded through the STUDIOTOPIA project. STUDIOTOPIA is co-funded by the Creative Europe Program of the European Union.
