Galaxy Clusters
Galaxy Clusters is a series of large wall panels within Transformation Studies that resemble alien worlds, symbolising the cosmic connections between life and the universe. The panels feature fixed iPSC cell colonies from the artist’s cell lines, SK1 and SK2, and are accompanied by text that reflects the interconnectedness of all matter. The circular arrangement of the panels allows the text to be read from multiple starting points, with the phrases "Our biochemistry extends beyond Earth; we form networks" and "Momentary Amalgamations; Life to Dust; We Return Dust to Life," evoking a sense of universal continuity and the cyclical nature of existence. This work underscores the idea that all life is part of an ongoing transformation, linking individual cellular existence to the broader cosmos.
This work was developed with A/Prof. Brad Sutherland and Dr Jo-Maree Courtney from the UTAS School of Medicine and formed part of the collaborative Transformation Studies exhibition at Moonah Art Centre in 2023.
PROJECT DETAILS:
Svenja Kratz, Galaxy Clusters, 2022 -2023, Mixed media works featuring haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stained induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) created by reprogramming the artist’s blood cells into iPSCs.
Transformation Studies was initiated during a 2021|22 Australian Network for Art and Technology (ANAT) Synapse Residency in a creative partnership between the School of Creative Arts and Media and School of Medicine at the Univeristy of Tasmania. The Synapse program is made possible through the generous support of the Copyright Agency’s Cultural Fund. Lab outcomes were realised with generous assistance from Dr Ashish Mehta, Dr Ariane Gelinas-Marion, Dr Lachlan Brown, Natalie King and Ayda Issa. Creative works were realised with support fom Murray Antill, Nic Randall and Peter Marseveen. Many thanks are also extended to the UTAS Sutherland Peri-Vascular Research Group and the team at Moonah Art Centre.
Thank you.