S+T+ARTS4Water II Challenge and STARTS Residency
Beneath the Mirror Waves
Host / Region
PiNA / Koper, Slovenia
Abstract
The purpose of this residency is to enhance public understanding and conservation of marine ecosystems through artistic and scientific collaboration, focusing on sustainable practices, non-invasive biomonitoring techniques, and innovative biomaterials.
Keywords
indigenous and non- indigenous organisms, coexistence, ballast water discharges, biodiversity, ecological balance
Description of the regional challenge
The Bay of Koper, located at the crossroads of sea routes, is a hub of global trade and a centre for ecological concerns, illustrating the intricate dance between economic development and environmental protection. The bay’s underwater ecosystems, which are rich in biodiversity, face various challenges in coexisting with the port’s activities, particularly due to the constant movement of seawater caused by shipping traffic and the inflow and discharge of ballast water from international vessels. This introduces non- native species into the local marine environment, disrupting the ecological balance and threatening the survival of native aquatic life. The anthropocentric perception of nature, which traditionally prioritizes human needs over ecological concerns, exacerbates these ecological challenges. Introducing the principle of interspecies equity in this context requires a radical rethinking of our interactions with the marine environment. It requires innovative practices that recognize the rights and interests of all species and ensure their fair consideration in decisions affecting their habitats.
How is the mission S+T+ARTS driven?
A highly interdisciplinary residency combining expertise in marine biology, artistic expression, and sustainable practices, focused on advancing knowledge of aquatic ecosystems and promoting non-invasive biomonitoring techniques. This collaboration will result in an interactive sculpture and innovative biomaterials that raise public awareness and empathy for underwater life, while contributing valuable insights and practical applications for environmental conservation.
The result of the residency will be shown at the IZIS 2025, an annual contemporary art international festival produced by S+T+ARTS partner PiNA.
Artists-in-residency
Marko Vivoda, is a slovenian based artist, curator, producer, and researcher. He is researching and developing biomaterials, focusing on utilizing local materials and waste for sustainable and innovative artistic endeavors.
Luka Murovec is a Slovenian, Berlin-based independent spatial practitioner working at the intersection of architecture and art interventions in public spaces. His work strives to create inspiring situations that respect history and cultural heritage but are radically contemporary and committed to a better future for all living beings.
Luka Frelih is an artist working with computers and networks, a computer programmer, a free software hacker, and a web designer. His solutions have often supported innovative elements of artistic presentations in other areas of creativity, such as art exhibitions or theatre performances.
About The Project – Beneath The Mirror Waves
Beneath the Mirror Waves reveals the hidden intricacies of marine ecosystems, focusing on the native and Japanese oyster and the invasive blue crab. Through artistic and scientific collaboration, the project educates the public about sustainable practices and introduces non-invasive biosensors and innovative biomaterials. An interactive sculpture will be created as part of the residency, attracting the public’s attention through its unique shape and strategic positioning. The project envisages significant outcomes that will contribute to both scientific understanding and practical applications. Firstly, the data collected from mussel organisms will provide new insights into their behavior and its relationship with water quality. This information will be crucial for increasing knowledge of aquatic ecosystems and improving water management practices. In addition, the project is expected to increase interest in non-invasive biomonitoring techniques. By demonstrating the effectiveness and benefits of these methods, the authors aim to encourage wider application in environmental monitoring and conservation efforts. A deeper understanding of underwater processes will also promote greater empathy for the underwater world
Jury Statement
“Marko Vivoda, Luka Murovec, and Luka Frelih’s project was selected due to its solid foundation and feasible approach. The challenge it addresses is clearly defined, with a thoughtful and innovative implementation. The Jury recognized the project’s technological innovation and potential for development, which made it stand out. It effectively integrates art, technology, and science, stimulating broad societal debate.”
