Terribly
beautiful
Art&science research / jewelry collection and art pieces / 1703 Art Fair, Saint Petersburg

A collection of jewelery and art objects created using innovative technologies and scientific research.

The project aims to create objects and experiences that can reduce two global factors that are destroying human life - plastic pollution and stress from an overabundance of informational noise.

The wax moth is able to recycle plastic to simpler forms, and fractal structures, a perfect mathematical sequence that repeats itself, surrounds humans everywhere in nature and leads to a state of equilibrium when contemplated.

Wax worm + Fractal texture + Neural networks = Art, reducing pollution

Materials: photo of wax moth larvae, eaten plastic bag

Tools: Stable Diffusion neural network

While exploring new ways to recycle plastic, a recent finding by scientists about enzymes in the saliva of wax worms that can break down plastic has been revealed.
The discovery was made by Federica Bertocchini in 2017 and the initial assumption was microbiome bacteria, but similar larvae with the same composition could not recycle plastic. It wasn't until 2022 that it was discovered that a salivary enzyme allows wax moth larvae to break down honeycomb. And honeycombs are similar in composition to plastic (PE).

‘Terribly Beautiful’ seeks to combine art and science to address global issues such as plastic pollution and stress from information overload. The project utilises the ability of wax moth larvae to recycle polyethylene and fractal structures found in nature to create aesthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly products.


Innovative technologies and materials


- Wax moth larvae: They have a unique ability to break down polyethylene, which opens up new possibilities for plastic recycling.


- Fractal textures: Natural mathematical sequences repeated at different scales are used to create harmonious and soothing visuals.


- Neural Networks: Tools such as Stable Diffusion are used to process images and create unique visual effects.


Environmental and Aesthetic Approach


The project aims to reduce plastic pollution and stress by offering viewers the opportunity to interact with objects that are both beautiful and meaningful. The use of natural materials and fractal forms helps to create a calming atmosphere and raise awareness of environmental issues.

‘Terribly Beautiful’ demonstrates the potential for synergy between art and science in addressing pressing environmental issues. The project inspires a rethinking of the relationship between man, nature and technology, offering new ways for sustainable development and aesthetic enjoyment.

Made on
Tilda