Agar art 2.0: casting with sculptural forms for microbial art

In this hands-on workshop, we’ll break out of the Petri dish and bring biology into three dimensions.

You’ll learn how to sculpt with agar using molds made from alginate and then paint your creations with colorful living bacteria.

We’ll begin by making molds from small objects (you’re welcome to bring your own item - no larger than an egg!). Using those molds, you'll cast your design in agar, then apply pigmented bacteria as your paint. As your sculpture incubates and grows, it will transform into a living work of art.

Each participant will leave with their own living sculpture to continue observing at home.

Nikki Romanello (she/her) was born and raised in Texas. As a kid she spent free time observing and collecting natural artifacts. In high school she was accepted into a four year AP art program. During her first year of college, she worked in a natural science lab where she gained experience with several scientific processes including; lab prep, dissection, and plant cultivation. She received her BFA in Interdisciplinary Sculpture and a Concentration in Photography at Maryland Institute of College of Art in Baltimore. During her last two years of undergrad she devoted herself to metal sculpture. After graduating, she experienced several job opportunities and built a sculpture studio. Her work experience includes the Baltimore Museum of Art, Harris Rubin, New Arts Foundry, and volunteering at the University of Maryland Iron Pour. She graduated with an MFA in Studio Art, majoring in Sculpture from the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York. She worked as a metal department teaching assistant and metal shop technician during her MFA. After graduating she worked for Will Ryman, Robert Lazzarini, and 3rd Ward. She also participated in a one year artist residency at Hot Wood Art Center and had a solo Bio Art show at the University Science Center in Philadelphia. Currently, she is researching various science disciplines, and teaching art and science classes at Brooklyn Brainery and Genspace.

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