In the midst of a world marked by the simultaneous processes of climate crisis, imperial violence and capitalist exploitation that undermine the very foundation of life, we recognize the urgent need for symbiotic reconnection for our collective future. From the “belly” of Vienna, we share living columns of changing and interacting microorganism communities at FLUCC. These imposing figures, reminiscent of architectural elements, envision alternative possibilities for the forms of life-sustaining structures. The dynamics of resilience and adaptability within the ecosystems of these pillars remind us of the active role we can take in response to environmental crises. By experiencing the process of ecosystem (trans)formation, we can learn to be more than ourselves, to reject passive roles and challenge the structures that force certain beings into a state of powerlessness. In the performative co-creation and duration of these pillars, we remember the vital importance of symbiotic relationships for the survival of all living beings.

The permanent performance SYMBIOMEMORY at FLUCC on April 11, 2024 will initiate the mutual transformation of architectural pillars, Vienna’s microorganisms and all participants into an interwoven system. In this interactive co-creation, a performance artist, a gardener/artist, a scientist and the audience will create a microbiological installation. Together, in unity and collaboration, we will fill columns with nutrients, Vienna’s biological material, water and our work to form a system that is larger than its individual parts. As these columns remain present and change over the next six months in the FLUCC’s outdoor garden, they will remind us of the adaptability and survivability of living systems.

https://www.flucc.at/events/efHkBG-symbiomemory-performance-installation-kubatur-2-rahmenprogramm/