Interpreting Fallopia japonica - material research
Today the exhibition Interpreting Fallopia japonica opened at the Joy Forum, KMD, Bergen.
Interpreting Fallopia japonica presents an installation of objects and material-explorations created of raw plant material: various investigations and interpretations of Fallopia japonica (Japanese knotweed), which has been declared one of the world’s most invasive weeds. The uncontrolled spread is a time-consuming and expensive burden for gardeners, states and landlords. It is also concluded to have negative consequences on wildlife and biodiversity. Yet, what if this plant could tell us it’s story? What if this plant would have had a place in our culture, craft or cuisine? Perhaps our relationship to this so-called “invasive, alien species” actually mirror our lacking attachment and understanding of them?
This installation questions the concept of belonging and attempts new ways of understanding and approaching the surplus of these undesired, but once so beloved and “exotic” plants. This is the first Case Study of the on-going PhD project in artistic research, where the focal point is directed towards the process, the potential and the interpretation. The goal is to use design as a tool for investing, sharing ideas and spark dialogues in the space between crafts, aesthetics, science and production.
More images from the exhibition here:
