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BY CHRISTOPHER BELLAMY
Lucid Life (Marama Ora in Tahitian) is a practice-based research project, which brings together scientific and traditional knowledge, to explore interspecies and intercultural collaboration.
Living materials’ ability to grow, adapt, and heal has been used symbiotically by humans for thousands of years, however, they are now replaced by the more reliable and repeatable inert materials which dominate our day to day lives.
After a bioprospecting trip to French Polynesia in search of novel micro-organisms, Chris was inspired by the indigenous community’s connection to nature, as well as their positive perception of the scientific community, and wanted to see how design could bring these two worlds together.
Using bioluminescent algae, like those in symbiosis with corals, Chris developed a contemporary living material with the support of the Francis Crick Institute for biomedical discovery.
This ethereal material emits light in response to touch. The micro-organisms are encapsulated in a way which allows them to live, sequester carbon, and emit light for more than six months; needing only sunlight in return.
In collaboration with three different Polynesian artisans, who have a deep understanding of the symbiotic relationships in the reefs around their islands, a series of artifacts were co-created using the bioluminescent living material.
A drum, a swimsuit, and a necklace were created; combining local materials and practices, with the bioluminescent material.
Each of these objects was found to create awe-inspiring and transcendent experiences, which Chris hopes can inspire those who experience the project to live more symbiotically with other cultures and species.
With living materials, similar to Polynesian traditional knowledge which exists only in living memory, there is a risk that it may die. However it is this fragility that allows it to adapt, react, and interact – and is what makes this temporal state of livingness so beautiful.
OBJECT DESCRIPTIONS
DRUM
This bioluminescent drum was created in collaboration with Hinatea and Moé Colombani.
The drum is inspired by a traditional coconut design, but instead of the usual fish skin top, it features the bioluminescent material Chris has developed in partnership with the Francis Crick Institute.
The patterns on the skin of the drum are biological interpretations of symbols designed by Hinatea.
The drum illuminates when tapped, revealing patterns which were inspired by traditional polynesian symbols and reaction diffusion patterns found in nature.
SWIMSUIT
The bioluminescent swimsuit designed in collaboration with Tekoui ‘Jérémie’ Tamari
The bioluminescent swimsuit is designed to be worn when swimming, diving, or fishing at night.
It can provide protection, but also creates a surreal awe inspiring experience which makes the user feel deeply connected to nature.
The bioluminescent swimsuit is made from a material which encapsulates bioluminescent algae and illuminates in response to movement and touch.
The design is an exploration of symbiosis, with the wearer and algae developing a mutual connection. Being connected to the bioluminescence can create transcendent feelings, and deepen the users connection to nature.
This suit was created with support from Isabella Smith.
COLLIER
This mother of pearl collier was created in collaboration with Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine, and the Centre deMétiers d’Art de la Polynésie Française.
The form is inspired by patterns in nature, and represents the balance between light and dark, the known and the unknown, and innovation and tradition in Tahitian culture.
Between pieces of mother of pearl, the bioluminescent material illuminates when moved, responding to the breath or movement of the person wearing the collier, which creates feelings of deep connection to nature.
Mother of pearl is an abundant waste marine material, which is a byproduct from pearl farming.
The intricate pieces were we cut individually from hand selected oyster shells by Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine.
The colliers illumination is driven by movement, as is the reflection from the mother of pearl, and reminds the wearer of the dynamic moving nature of livingness.
THE MATERIAL
The material has a lifespan of more than 6 months, and only needs sunlight and a humid atmosphere to reduce water loss.
The material is resistant to chemicals and hostile environments.
ADDITIONAL PROJECT CREDITS
Lucid Life (Marama Ora in Tahitian) is a practice-based research project, which brings together scientific and traditional knowledge, to explore interspecies and intercultural collaboration.
Living materials’ ability to grow, adapt, and heal has been used symbiotically by humans for thousands of years, however, they are now replaced by the more reliable and repeatable inert materials which dominate our day to day lives.
After a bioprospecting trip to French Polynesia in search of novel micro-organisms, Chris was inspired by the indigenous community’s connection to nature, as well as their positive perception of the scientific community, and wanted to see how design could bring these two worlds together.
Using bioluminescent algae, like those in symbiosis with corals, Chris developed a contemporary living material with the support of the Francis Crick Institute for biomedical discovery.
This ethereal material emits light in response to touch. The micro-organisms are encapsulated in a way which allows them to live, sequester carbon, and emit light for more than six months; needing only sunlight in return.
In collaboration with three different Polynesian artisans, who have a deep understanding of the symbiotic relationships in the reefs around their islands, a series of artifacts were co-created using the bioluminescent living material.
A drum, a swimsuit, and a necklace were created; combining local materials and practices, with the bioluminescent material.
Each of these objects was found to create awe-inspiring and transcendent experiences, which Chris hopes can inspire those who experience the project to live more symbiotically with other cultures and species.
With living materials, similar to Polynesian traditional knowledge which exists only in living memory, there is a risk that it may die. However it is this fragility that allows it to adapt, react, and interact – and is what makes this temporal state of livingness so beautiful.
OBJECT DESCRIPTIONS
DRUM
This bioluminescent drum was created in collaboration with Hinatea and Moé Colombani.
The drum is inspired by a traditional coconut design, but instead of the usual fish skin top, it features the bioluminescent material Chris has developed in partnership with the Francis Crick Institute.
The patterns on the skin of the drum are biological interpretations of symbols designed by Hinatea.
The drum illuminates when tapped, revealing patterns which were inspired by traditional polynesian symbols and reaction diffusion patterns found in nature.
SWIMSUIT
The bioluminescent swimsuit designed in collaboration with Tekoui ‘Jérémie’ Tamari
The bioluminescent swimsuit is designed to be worn when swimming, diving, or fishing at night.
It can provide protection, but also creates a surreal awe inspiring experience which makes the user feel deeply connected to nature.
The bioluminescent swimsuit is made from a material which encapsulates bioluminescent algae and illuminates in response to movement and touch.
The design is an exploration of symbiosis, with the wearer and algae developing a mutual connection. Being connected to the bioluminescence can create transcendent feelings, and deepen the users connection to nature.
This suit was created with support from Isabella Smith.
COLLIER
This mother of pearl collier was created in collaboration with Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine, and the Centre deMétiers d’Art de la Polynésie Française.
The form is inspired by patterns in nature, and represents the balance between light and dark, the known and the unknown, and innovation and tradition in Tahitian culture.
Between pieces of mother of pearl, the bioluminescent material illuminates when moved, responding to the breath or movement of the person wearing the collier, which creates feelings of deep connection to nature.
Mother of pearl is an abundant waste marine material, which is a byproduct from pearl farming.
The intricate pieces were we cut individually from hand selected oyster shells by Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine.
The colliers illumination is driven by movement, as is the reflection from the mother of pearl, and reminds the wearer of the dynamic moving nature of livingness.
THE MATERIAL
The material has a lifespan of more than 6 months, and only needs sunlight and a humid atmosphere to reduce water loss.
The material is resistant to chemicals and hostile environments.
ADDITIONAL PROJECT CREDITS
Christopher Bellamy is a biodesigner and engineer who is fascinated by how we can live in more sustainable and regenerative ways.
BY CHRISTOPHER BELLAMY
Lucid Life (Marama Ora in Tahitian) is a practice-based research project, which brings together scientific and traditional knowledge, to explore interspecies and intercultural collaboration.
Living materials’ ability to grow, adapt, and heal has been used symbiotically by humans for thousands of years, however, they are now replaced by the more reliable and repeatable inert materials which dominate our day to day lives.
After a bioprospecting trip to French Polynesia in search of novel micro-organisms, Chris was inspired by the indigenous community’s connection to nature, as well as their positive perception of the scientific community, and wanted to see how design could bring these two worlds together.
Using bioluminescent algae, like those in symbiosis with corals, Chris developed a contemporary living material with the support of the Francis Crick Institute for biomedical discovery.
This ethereal material emits light in response to touch. The micro-organisms are encapsulated in a way which allows them to live, sequester carbon, and emit light for more than six months; needing only sunlight in return.
In collaboration with three different Polynesian artisans, who have a deep understanding of the symbiotic relationships in the reefs around their islands, a series of artifacts were co-created using the bioluminescent living material.
A drum, a swimsuit, and a necklace were created; combining local materials and practices, with the bioluminescent material.
Each of these objects was found to create awe-inspiring and transcendent experiences, which Chris hopes can inspire those who experience the project to live more symbiotically with other cultures and species.
With living materials, similar to Polynesian traditional knowledge which exists only in living memory, there is a risk that it may die. However it is this fragility that allows it to adapt, react, and interact – and is what makes this temporal state of livingness so beautiful.
OBJECT DESCRIPTIONS
DRUM
This bioluminescent drum was created in collaboration with Hinatea and Moé Colombani.
The drum is inspired by a traditional coconut design, but instead of the usual fish skin top, it features the bioluminescent material Chris has developed in partnership with the Francis Crick Institute.
The patterns on the skin of the drum are biological interpretations of symbols designed by Hinatea.
The drum illuminates when tapped, revealing patterns which were inspired by traditional polynesian symbols and reaction diffusion patterns found in nature.
SWIMSUIT
The bioluminescent swimsuit designed in collaboration with Tekoui ‘Jérémie’ Tamari
The bioluminescent swimsuit is designed to be worn when swimming, diving, or fishing at night.
It can provide protection, but also creates a surreal awe inspiring experience which makes the user feel deeply connected to nature.
The bioluminescent swimsuit is made from a material which encapsulates bioluminescent algae and illuminates in response to movement and touch.
The design is an exploration of symbiosis, with the wearer and algae developing a mutual connection. Being connected to the bioluminescence can create transcendent feelings, and deepen the users connection to nature.
This suit was created with support from Isabella Smith.
COLLIER
This mother of pearl collier was created in collaboration with Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine, and the Centre deMétiers d’Art de la Polynésie Française.
The form is inspired by patterns in nature, and represents the balance between light and dark, the known and the unknown, and innovation and tradition in Tahitian culture.
Between pieces of mother of pearl, the bioluminescent material illuminates when moved, responding to the breath or movement of the person wearing the collier, which creates feelings of deep connection to nature.
Mother of pearl is an abundant waste marine material, which is a byproduct from pearl farming.
The intricate pieces were we cut individually from hand selected oyster shells by Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine.
The colliers illumination is driven by movement, as is the reflection from the mother of pearl, and reminds the wearer of the dynamic moving nature of livingness.
THE MATERIAL
The material has a lifespan of more than 6 months, and only needs sunlight and a humid atmosphere to reduce water loss.
The material is resistant to chemicals and hostile environments.
ADDITIONAL PROJECT CREDITS
Lucid Life (Marama Ora in Tahitian) is a practice-based research project, which brings together scientific and traditional knowledge, to explore interspecies and intercultural collaboration.
Living materials’ ability to grow, adapt, and heal has been used symbiotically by humans for thousands of years, however, they are now replaced by the more reliable and repeatable inert materials which dominate our day to day lives.
After a bioprospecting trip to French Polynesia in search of novel micro-organisms, Chris was inspired by the indigenous community’s connection to nature, as well as their positive perception of the scientific community, and wanted to see how design could bring these two worlds together.
Using bioluminescent algae, like those in symbiosis with corals, Chris developed a contemporary living material with the support of the Francis Crick Institute for biomedical discovery.
This ethereal material emits light in response to touch. The micro-organisms are encapsulated in a way which allows them to live, sequester carbon, and emit light for more than six months; needing only sunlight in return.
In collaboration with three different Polynesian artisans, who have a deep understanding of the symbiotic relationships in the reefs around their islands, a series of artifacts were co-created using the bioluminescent living material.
A drum, a swimsuit, and a necklace were created; combining local materials and practices, with the bioluminescent material.
Each of these objects was found to create awe-inspiring and transcendent experiences, which Chris hopes can inspire those who experience the project to live more symbiotically with other cultures and species.
With living materials, similar to Polynesian traditional knowledge which exists only in living memory, there is a risk that it may die. However it is this fragility that allows it to adapt, react, and interact – and is what makes this temporal state of livingness so beautiful.
OBJECT DESCRIPTIONS
DRUM
This bioluminescent drum was created in collaboration with Hinatea and Moé Colombani.
The drum is inspired by a traditional coconut design, but instead of the usual fish skin top, it features the bioluminescent material Chris has developed in partnership with the Francis Crick Institute.
The patterns on the skin of the drum are biological interpretations of symbols designed by Hinatea.
The drum illuminates when tapped, revealing patterns which were inspired by traditional polynesian symbols and reaction diffusion patterns found in nature.
SWIMSUIT
The bioluminescent swimsuit designed in collaboration with Tekoui ‘Jérémie’ Tamari
The bioluminescent swimsuit is designed to be worn when swimming, diving, or fishing at night.
It can provide protection, but also creates a surreal awe inspiring experience which makes the user feel deeply connected to nature.
The bioluminescent swimsuit is made from a material which encapsulates bioluminescent algae and illuminates in response to movement and touch.
The design is an exploration of symbiosis, with the wearer and algae developing a mutual connection. Being connected to the bioluminescence can create transcendent feelings, and deepen the users connection to nature.
This suit was created with support from Isabella Smith.
COLLIER
This mother of pearl collier was created in collaboration with Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine, and the Centre deMétiers d’Art de la Polynésie Française.
The form is inspired by patterns in nature, and represents the balance between light and dark, the known and the unknown, and innovation and tradition in Tahitian culture.
Between pieces of mother of pearl, the bioluminescent material illuminates when moved, responding to the breath or movement of the person wearing the collier, which creates feelings of deep connection to nature.
Mother of pearl is an abundant waste marine material, which is a byproduct from pearl farming.
The intricate pieces were we cut individually from hand selected oyster shells by Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine.
The colliers illumination is driven by movement, as is the reflection from the mother of pearl, and reminds the wearer of the dynamic moving nature of livingness.
THE MATERIAL
The material has a lifespan of more than 6 months, and only needs sunlight and a humid atmosphere to reduce water loss.
The material is resistant to chemicals and hostile environments.
ADDITIONAL PROJECT CREDITS
Christopher Bellamy is a biodesigner and engineer who is fascinated by how we can live in more sustainable and regenerative ways.
BY CHRISTOPHER BELLAMY
Lucid Life (Marama Ora in Tahitian) is a practice-based research project, which brings together scientific and traditional knowledge, to explore interspecies and intercultural collaboration.
Living materials’ ability to grow, adapt, and heal has been used symbiotically by humans for thousands of years, however, they are now replaced by the more reliable and repeatable inert materials which dominate our day to day lives.
After a bioprospecting trip to French Polynesia in search of novel micro-organisms, Chris was inspired by the indigenous community’s connection to nature, as well as their positive perception of the scientific community, and wanted to see how design could bring these two worlds together.
Using bioluminescent algae, like those in symbiosis with corals, Chris developed a contemporary living material with the support of the Francis Crick Institute for biomedical discovery.
This ethereal material emits light in response to touch. The micro-organisms are encapsulated in a way which allows them to live, sequester carbon, and emit light for more than six months; needing only sunlight in return.
In collaboration with three different Polynesian artisans, who have a deep understanding of the symbiotic relationships in the reefs around their islands, a series of artifacts were co-created using the bioluminescent living material.
A drum, a swimsuit, and a necklace were created; combining local materials and practices, with the bioluminescent material.
Each of these objects was found to create awe-inspiring and transcendent experiences, which Chris hopes can inspire those who experience the project to live more symbiotically with other cultures and species.
With living materials, similar to Polynesian traditional knowledge which exists only in living memory, there is a risk that it may die. However it is this fragility that allows it to adapt, react, and interact – and is what makes this temporal state of livingness so beautiful.
OBJECT DESCRIPTIONS
DRUM
This bioluminescent drum was created in collaboration with Hinatea and Moé Colombani.
The drum is inspired by a traditional coconut design, but instead of the usual fish skin top, it features the bioluminescent material Chris has developed in partnership with the Francis Crick Institute.
The patterns on the skin of the drum are biological interpretations of symbols designed by Hinatea.
The drum illuminates when tapped, revealing patterns which were inspired by traditional polynesian symbols and reaction diffusion patterns found in nature.
SWIMSUIT
The bioluminescent swimsuit designed in collaboration with Tekoui ‘Jérémie’ Tamari
The bioluminescent swimsuit is designed to be worn when swimming, diving, or fishing at night.
It can provide protection, but also creates a surreal awe inspiring experience which makes the user feel deeply connected to nature.
The bioluminescent swimsuit is made from a material which encapsulates bioluminescent algae and illuminates in response to movement and touch.
The design is an exploration of symbiosis, with the wearer and algae developing a mutual connection. Being connected to the bioluminescence can create transcendent feelings, and deepen the users connection to nature.
This suit was created with support from Isabella Smith.
COLLIER
This mother of pearl collier was created in collaboration with Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine, and the Centre deMétiers d’Art de la Polynésie Française.
The form is inspired by patterns in nature, and represents the balance between light and dark, the known and the unknown, and innovation and tradition in Tahitian culture.
Between pieces of mother of pearl, the bioluminescent material illuminates when moved, responding to the breath or movement of the person wearing the collier, which creates feelings of deep connection to nature.
Mother of pearl is an abundant waste marine material, which is a byproduct from pearl farming.
The intricate pieces were we cut individually from hand selected oyster shells by Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine.
The colliers illumination is driven by movement, as is the reflection from the mother of pearl, and reminds the wearer of the dynamic moving nature of livingness.
THE MATERIAL
The material has a lifespan of more than 6 months, and only needs sunlight and a humid atmosphere to reduce water loss.
The material is resistant to chemicals and hostile environments.
ADDITIONAL PROJECT CREDITS
Lucid Life (Marama Ora in Tahitian) is a practice-based research project, which brings together scientific and traditional knowledge, to explore interspecies and intercultural collaboration.
Living materials’ ability to grow, adapt, and heal has been used symbiotically by humans for thousands of years, however, they are now replaced by the more reliable and repeatable inert materials which dominate our day to day lives.
After a bioprospecting trip to French Polynesia in search of novel micro-organisms, Chris was inspired by the indigenous community’s connection to nature, as well as their positive perception of the scientific community, and wanted to see how design could bring these two worlds together.
Using bioluminescent algae, like those in symbiosis with corals, Chris developed a contemporary living material with the support of the Francis Crick Institute for biomedical discovery.
This ethereal material emits light in response to touch. The micro-organisms are encapsulated in a way which allows them to live, sequester carbon, and emit light for more than six months; needing only sunlight in return.
In collaboration with three different Polynesian artisans, who have a deep understanding of the symbiotic relationships in the reefs around their islands, a series of artifacts were co-created using the bioluminescent living material.
A drum, a swimsuit, and a necklace were created; combining local materials and practices, with the bioluminescent material.
Each of these objects was found to create awe-inspiring and transcendent experiences, which Chris hopes can inspire those who experience the project to live more symbiotically with other cultures and species.
With living materials, similar to Polynesian traditional knowledge which exists only in living memory, there is a risk that it may die. However it is this fragility that allows it to adapt, react, and interact – and is what makes this temporal state of livingness so beautiful.
OBJECT DESCRIPTIONS
DRUM
This bioluminescent drum was created in collaboration with Hinatea and Moé Colombani.
The drum is inspired by a traditional coconut design, but instead of the usual fish skin top, it features the bioluminescent material Chris has developed in partnership with the Francis Crick Institute.
The patterns on the skin of the drum are biological interpretations of symbols designed by Hinatea.
The drum illuminates when tapped, revealing patterns which were inspired by traditional polynesian symbols and reaction diffusion patterns found in nature.
SWIMSUIT
The bioluminescent swimsuit designed in collaboration with Tekoui ‘Jérémie’ Tamari
The bioluminescent swimsuit is designed to be worn when swimming, diving, or fishing at night.
It can provide protection, but also creates a surreal awe inspiring experience which makes the user feel deeply connected to nature.
The bioluminescent swimsuit is made from a material which encapsulates bioluminescent algae and illuminates in response to movement and touch.
The design is an exploration of symbiosis, with the wearer and algae developing a mutual connection. Being connected to the bioluminescence can create transcendent feelings, and deepen the users connection to nature.
This suit was created with support from Isabella Smith.
COLLIER
This mother of pearl collier was created in collaboration with Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine, and the Centre deMétiers d’Art de la Polynésie Française.
The form is inspired by patterns in nature, and represents the balance between light and dark, the known and the unknown, and innovation and tradition in Tahitian culture.
Between pieces of mother of pearl, the bioluminescent material illuminates when moved, responding to the breath or movement of the person wearing the collier, which creates feelings of deep connection to nature.
Mother of pearl is an abundant waste marine material, which is a byproduct from pearl farming.
The intricate pieces were we cut individually from hand selected oyster shells by Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine.
The colliers illumination is driven by movement, as is the reflection from the mother of pearl, and reminds the wearer of the dynamic moving nature of livingness.
THE MATERIAL
The material has a lifespan of more than 6 months, and only needs sunlight and a humid atmosphere to reduce water loss.
The material is resistant to chemicals and hostile environments.
ADDITIONAL PROJECT CREDITS
Christopher Bellamy is a biodesigner and engineer who is fascinated by how we can live in more sustainable and regenerative ways.
BY CHRISTOPHER BELLAMY
Lucid Life (Marama Ora in Tahitian) is a practice-based research project, which brings together scientific and traditional knowledge, to explore interspecies and intercultural collaboration.
Living materials’ ability to grow, adapt, and heal has been used symbiotically by humans for thousands of years, however, they are now replaced by the more reliable and repeatable inert materials which dominate our day to day lives.
After a bioprospecting trip to French Polynesia in search of novel micro-organisms, Chris was inspired by the indigenous community’s connection to nature, as well as their positive perception of the scientific community, and wanted to see how design could bring these two worlds together.
Using bioluminescent algae, like those in symbiosis with corals, Chris developed a contemporary living material with the support of the Francis Crick Institute for biomedical discovery.
This ethereal material emits light in response to touch. The micro-organisms are encapsulated in a way which allows them to live, sequester carbon, and emit light for more than six months; needing only sunlight in return.
In collaboration with three different Polynesian artisans, who have a deep understanding of the symbiotic relationships in the reefs around their islands, a series of artifacts were co-created using the bioluminescent living material.
A drum, a swimsuit, and a necklace were created; combining local materials and practices, with the bioluminescent material.
Each of these objects was found to create awe-inspiring and transcendent experiences, which Chris hopes can inspire those who experience the project to live more symbiotically with other cultures and species.
With living materials, similar to Polynesian traditional knowledge which exists only in living memory, there is a risk that it may die. However it is this fragility that allows it to adapt, react, and interact – and is what makes this temporal state of livingness so beautiful.
OBJECT DESCRIPTIONS
DRUM
This bioluminescent drum was created in collaboration with Hinatea and Moé Colombani.
The drum is inspired by a traditional coconut design, but instead of the usual fish skin top, it features the bioluminescent material Chris has developed in partnership with the Francis Crick Institute.
The patterns on the skin of the drum are biological interpretations of symbols designed by Hinatea.
The drum illuminates when tapped, revealing patterns which were inspired by traditional polynesian symbols and reaction diffusion patterns found in nature.
SWIMSUIT
The bioluminescent swimsuit designed in collaboration with Tekoui ‘Jérémie’ Tamari
The bioluminescent swimsuit is designed to be worn when swimming, diving, or fishing at night.
It can provide protection, but also creates a surreal awe inspiring experience which makes the user feel deeply connected to nature.
The bioluminescent swimsuit is made from a material which encapsulates bioluminescent algae and illuminates in response to movement and touch.
The design is an exploration of symbiosis, with the wearer and algae developing a mutual connection. Being connected to the bioluminescence can create transcendent feelings, and deepen the users connection to nature.
This suit was created with support from Isabella Smith.
COLLIER
This mother of pearl collier was created in collaboration with Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine, and the Centre deMétiers d’Art de la Polynésie Française.
The form is inspired by patterns in nature, and represents the balance between light and dark, the known and the unknown, and innovation and tradition in Tahitian culture.
Between pieces of mother of pearl, the bioluminescent material illuminates when moved, responding to the breath or movement of the person wearing the collier, which creates feelings of deep connection to nature.
Mother of pearl is an abundant waste marine material, which is a byproduct from pearl farming.
The intricate pieces were we cut individually from hand selected oyster shells by Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine.
The colliers illumination is driven by movement, as is the reflection from the mother of pearl, and reminds the wearer of the dynamic moving nature of livingness.
THE MATERIAL
The material has a lifespan of more than 6 months, and only needs sunlight and a humid atmosphere to reduce water loss.
The material is resistant to chemicals and hostile environments.
ADDITIONAL PROJECT CREDITS
Lucid Life (Marama Ora in Tahitian) is a practice-based research project, which brings together scientific and traditional knowledge, to explore interspecies and intercultural collaboration.
Living materials’ ability to grow, adapt, and heal has been used symbiotically by humans for thousands of years, however, they are now replaced by the more reliable and repeatable inert materials which dominate our day to day lives.
After a bioprospecting trip to French Polynesia in search of novel micro-organisms, Chris was inspired by the indigenous community’s connection to nature, as well as their positive perception of the scientific community, and wanted to see how design could bring these two worlds together.
Using bioluminescent algae, like those in symbiosis with corals, Chris developed a contemporary living material with the support of the Francis Crick Institute for biomedical discovery.
This ethereal material emits light in response to touch. The micro-organisms are encapsulated in a way which allows them to live, sequester carbon, and emit light for more than six months; needing only sunlight in return.
In collaboration with three different Polynesian artisans, who have a deep understanding of the symbiotic relationships in the reefs around their islands, a series of artifacts were co-created using the bioluminescent living material.
A drum, a swimsuit, and a necklace were created; combining local materials and practices, with the bioluminescent material.
Each of these objects was found to create awe-inspiring and transcendent experiences, which Chris hopes can inspire those who experience the project to live more symbiotically with other cultures and species.
With living materials, similar to Polynesian traditional knowledge which exists only in living memory, there is a risk that it may die. However it is this fragility that allows it to adapt, react, and interact – and is what makes this temporal state of livingness so beautiful.
OBJECT DESCRIPTIONS
DRUM
This bioluminescent drum was created in collaboration with Hinatea and Moé Colombani.
The drum is inspired by a traditional coconut design, but instead of the usual fish skin top, it features the bioluminescent material Chris has developed in partnership with the Francis Crick Institute.
The patterns on the skin of the drum are biological interpretations of symbols designed by Hinatea.
The drum illuminates when tapped, revealing patterns which were inspired by traditional polynesian symbols and reaction diffusion patterns found in nature.
SWIMSUIT
The bioluminescent swimsuit designed in collaboration with Tekoui ‘Jérémie’ Tamari
The bioluminescent swimsuit is designed to be worn when swimming, diving, or fishing at night.
It can provide protection, but also creates a surreal awe inspiring experience which makes the user feel deeply connected to nature.
The bioluminescent swimsuit is made from a material which encapsulates bioluminescent algae and illuminates in response to movement and touch.
The design is an exploration of symbiosis, with the wearer and algae developing a mutual connection. Being connected to the bioluminescence can create transcendent feelings, and deepen the users connection to nature.
This suit was created with support from Isabella Smith.
COLLIER
This mother of pearl collier was created in collaboration with Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine, and the Centre deMétiers d’Art de la Polynésie Française.
The form is inspired by patterns in nature, and represents the balance between light and dark, the known and the unknown, and innovation and tradition in Tahitian culture.
Between pieces of mother of pearl, the bioluminescent material illuminates when moved, responding to the breath or movement of the person wearing the collier, which creates feelings of deep connection to nature.
Mother of pearl is an abundant waste marine material, which is a byproduct from pearl farming.
The intricate pieces were we cut individually from hand selected oyster shells by Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine.
The colliers illumination is driven by movement, as is the reflection from the mother of pearl, and reminds the wearer of the dynamic moving nature of livingness.
THE MATERIAL
The material has a lifespan of more than 6 months, and only needs sunlight and a humid atmosphere to reduce water loss.
The material is resistant to chemicals and hostile environments.
ADDITIONAL PROJECT CREDITS
Christopher Bellamy is a biodesigner and engineer who is fascinated by how we can live in more sustainable and regenerative ways.