Marlene BartㅣTheatrum Radix

 

Who are you as an individual and artist?

I am a multimedia artist and researcher who resides and works in Berlin, Germany. In my work, I delicately interweave the fibers of science and art. I combine art, science, and, particularly, natural history to create a visual language that is harmonious and unifies these disciplines. To investigate the technical potential of augmented and virtual reality, my artistic practice employs a variety of mediums, such as glass technique, taxidermy, and printmaking.

 

What artworks are you showcasing in this exhibition?

In my work, Theatrum Radix, I explore questions such as: Is there a natural “order of things”? To elucidate the universe, humans have established a knowledge hierarchy in which they are invariably positioned at the pinnacle of creation. Nevertheless, I challenge the anthropocentric paradigm to establish a new architecture of knowledge that would allow non-human entities to be considered equally. I am optimistic that this new system will allow us to confront issues such as the general decline in biodiversity within society.

 

What message or experience do you aim to convey through your exhibition piece?

The audience is presented with CT and surface scans of honeybees, dung beetles, ammonites, spiders, and sculptures in the VR work, which provides a unique perspective. The visitors will be able to engage with art and natural science in a completely new manner, thereby experiencing a sense of “connectedness” with the broader world.

 

 

Marlene Bart, Theatrum Radix, Virtual Reality Experience, 17 minutes, 2023

 

 

What makes your artwork unique?

I consistently discover that my approach to integrating art and science is distinctive. I regard myself as a form of artistic encyclopedist who conducts investigations. The distinction is that my research methodology is more akin to art, and I employ a variety of mediums in my work. I prioritize the influence of my work in addition to the art itself.

 

 

Marlene Bart, Theatrum Radix,Virtual Reality Experience, 17 minutes, 2023