《Flow of Matter》
Keywords: matter, photosynthesis, flow, light, nature
Materials: wire frame, wire mesh, plaster cloth, pigments, soils
The sculpture shows the flow of matter and the shape of the sculpture is based on the thylakoids inside the chloroplasts of plants, where photosynthesis occurs.
I represent the flow of matter in plants through the movement of light. In this process, carbon dioxide and water turn into glucose and oxygen. The changing colors and patterns of light follow the chemical equation of photosynthesis. For example, 6 molecules of water would represent 6 multiples of the light beads.
Photosynthesis is affected by light, CO2, temperature and humidity. So I connected light sensor, CO2 sensor and temperature and humidity sensor, they can detect the change of environment, the data from these sensors will affect the flow rate of the light and the brightness of the light. For example, the photosynthesis rate is fastest at a temperature of 15-25 degrees, then the light flow will be faster.
Different environmental changes can have an effect on the flow and brightness of the light.
For this sculpture, I first built the wire frame, then covered it in wire mesh, and finally wrapped it in plaster cloth.
To create a natural ecological atmosphere, I’ve added some dirt and branches near the sculpture.
Yiran Gao
Social media: @0022zaza2200
This sculpture expresses the flow of matter through the changing light, inspired by the chloroplasts in plants where photosynthesis occurs. The sculpture presents the molecular conversion of carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen through a constantly shifting visual stream of light and color. By using sensors to detect light levels, carbon dioxide concentration, and temperature and humidity, it dynamically adjusts the rate and intensity of the light flow. The sculpture symbolizes the cycle of matter and energy in nature, as well as the transformation and evolution of matter within life.
