Fermenting Futures: an artistic view on yeast biotechnology

Area of Science:

• BioArt: An emerging interdisciplinary field integrating contemporary life sciences with artistic expression.
• Exploration of biological materials and processes, including tissue culture, microorganisms, and genetic engineering, within an artistic context.

Background:

• The 'Fermenting Futures' project investigates the historical and future significance of yeast.
• Yeast's role spans from ancient practices like baking and brewing to modern industrial biotechnology and synthetic biology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the multifaceted significance of yeast through an artistic lens, connecting past, present, and future applications.
• To examine the potential of synthetic biology in developing sustainable solutions, such as carbon dioxide utilization by yeast.
• To discuss the role of BioArt in public engagement and science communication.

Main Methods:

• Artistic installations developed by artists, informed by scientific research from collaborating laboratories.
• Focus on yeast as a model organism to explore metabolic traits and biotechnological potential.
• Utilizing synthetic biology approaches to engineer yeast for novel material production.

Main Results:

• Two primary art pieces were created, reflecting on yeast fermentation and its societal impact.
• Demonstrated the transformational power of yeast's metabolic capabilities.
• Showcased the application of synthetic biology for producing materials from carbon dioxide using engineered yeast.

Conclusions:

• BioArt serves as a vital platform for public engagement and science dissemination.
• Collaborations between scientists and artists are crucial for advancing interdisciplinary understanding and innovation.
• Yeast holds significant potential for addressing societal challenges, including climate change, through biotechnology.