TPC 2017
Metamorphosis

Our world is changing at an ever increasing pace and new (bio)technologies, materials and innovations emerge on almost a daily basis. In this evolving landschape the fields of science and art grow more interconnected as scientific processes and theories inspire the arts and vice versa. Bridging the gap between these disciplines presents new research opportunities, allows us to address societal and environmental issues in a profoundly different manner or even create entirely new perspectives of the world we live in.

In 2017, BioArt Laboratories set its sights on transformation and  change and that year’s Talent Pressure Cooker has therefore embraced the diversity offered by the crossover between scientific and artistic research through the theme of Metamorphosis.

In biology, metamorphosis is traditionally viewed as a significant stage in the life history of an organism: the change from one form to another – from the caterpillar to the butterfly. Yet, this biological principle also resonates within other disciplines. Folklore, literature, and fine arts are filled with a wealth of examples about (physical) transformations. Art itself can even be seen as transformation in the way that it changes or reshapes materials into new ideas and visions.

For our Open Call in 2017 we invited top talents to submit proposals looking at what metamorphosis can mean in the crossover between science and art. For their proposals, we stimulated talents to explore the conversion of organic or non organic matter into new materials, ideas or innovations. Together we searched for the boundaries of transformation, reimagined its definition and inspired the discussion about societal and ethical issues with their work.

We offered participants training & guidance in life sciences and laboratory practice as well as access to our facilities in our hybrid laboratory and the unique chance to exhibit their work at a prominent location during the Dutch Design Week from the 21st – 29th of October 2017.

Meet our talents here!