Ward Groutars

Subject of presentation 

Recently, micro-biologists have discovered the ability of Flavobacteria to produce vivid iridescent colorations. These colorful bacteria pose a viable and sustainable alternative to chemical and often harmful colorants that are being used in many industries nowadays. Moving from microbiology into the field of design, this presentation will explain the challenges that occur when working with these living organisms and how their appearance can be changed and used by designers. 

Concise resume

Combining both an artistic and scientific approach, Ward Groutars performed various projects that incorporate living micro-organisms with human technology. Among his previous collaborators are bioluminescent algae, cellulose-producing bacteria and iridescent Flavobacteria. Ward is connected to the Biobases Art and Design Research Group of Caradt.