Bridging Science and Indigenous Wisdom

Bridging Science and Indigenous Wisdom

Lucid Life

In the vibrant ecosystems of Moorea, an island in French Polynesia, a groundbreaking bio-design project at the innovative intersection of microbiology and indigenous wisdom. At its heart: the captivating radiance of bioluminescent algae.

This practice-based research, led by biodesigner Chris, explores the microscopic world to answer a macro question: How can design cultivate connections between scientific and Indigenous communities? The answer emerges from the rich microbial diversity of Polynesia.

Collaborating with the Francis Crick Institute for Biomedical Discovery, Chris developed a living material using bioluminescent algae. These photosynthetic microorganisms, carefully encapsulated, emit light in response to touch while also sequestering carbon. Remarkably, they sustain themselves for over six months using only sunlight as an energy source.

The project synthesizes cutting-edge biotechnology with traditional Polynesian craftsmanship. Three local artisans, each possessing an instinctive understanding of their islands’ complex ecosystems, collaborated to create artefacts that embody this bio-cultural symbiosis. A bioluminescent drum combines ancient rhythms with the glow of living light. The mother-of-pearl necklace pulses with the wearer’s breath, symbolising the interconnectedness of life. A swimsuit, inspired by the dangerous practice of night spearfishing, which potentially offers a bio-illuminated safety feature.

In Chris’s words, these creations transcend mere objects; they’re a testament to the untapped potential lying within the “biological dark matter” of our world.

Lucid Life challenges our perception of biotechnology, illuminating a path towards more accessible and integrated biological innovations. At Haeckels, we envision a future where cutting-edge science seamlessly blends with our daily lives and routines.

Imagine bioluminescent microorganisms serving as intuitive wellbeing indicators, their gentle glow a testament to the harmony between human health and natural systems. This vision builds upon our foundational ethos: a profound respect for nature’s ecosystems, exemplified by our hand-harvested seaweed, now elevated through advanced biomanufacturing processes.

As we continue to explore the vast potential of marine microorganisms, we’re not just developing products; we’re cultivating a new relationship between humanity and the microscopic world that sustains us. In this luminous future, each Haeckels creation becomes a bridge between scientific innovation and the timeless wisdom of nature, inviting us all to participate in a more symbiotic existence.