Botanica from the Gardens and Peripheries of Future:
Nymphoides olearius
2026 Metal frame, glazed stoneware, fabric, wax, glass beads.
Nymphoides olearius evolved in direct response to oil spills, developing the ability to ingest oil particles, which gives its leaves and flowers their shimmery veins. In adapting, it also stopped overgrowing its environment, becoming a polluter turned cleaner. The sculpture follows this aquatic perennial across the boundary between fresh and salt water.
Nymphoides olearius is a part of ongoing series about speculative botanical futures, exploring various plant species and their possible evolution in response to human-induced catastrophes. This project questions whether plant knowledge can help with facilitation of lost third places while proposing a path towards a multispecies future where harmonious coexistence is possible.
Nymphoides olearius
2026 Metal frame, glazed stoneware, fabric, wax, glass beads.
Nymphoides olearius evolved in direct response to oil spills, developing the ability to ingest oil particles, which gives its leaves and flowers their shimmery veins. In adapting, it also stopped overgrowing its environment, becoming a polluter turned cleaner. The sculpture follows this aquatic perennial across the boundary between fresh and salt water.
Nymphoides olearius is a part of ongoing series about speculative botanical futures, exploring various plant species and their possible evolution in response to human-induced catastrophes. This project questions whether plant knowledge can help with facilitation of lost third places while proposing a path towards a multispecies future where harmonious coexistence is possible.
