In this immersive experience, the scales are flipped: diatoms, a little-studied microalgae responsible for generating the oxygen in every fourth breath we take, are magnified to become larger-than-humans. This allows us to encounter these microscopic organisms at eye level, engaging with them through a speculative yet research-informed narrative delivered from the diatoms‘ perspective. 

In the 360-degree screening, humans are invited to witness the incredible diversity, beauty, and power of these normally invisible for human-eyes life forms. The experience incorporates breathing exercises and guided meditation, prompting reflection on the oxygen we consume and the tiny life forms we owe it to.

Designed to stimulate all the senses, the installation features immersive sound and video, tactile interaction with handmade diatom-shaped cushions, a marine-scented diffusor, and even taste. Diatom-inspired popsicles, based on the species Phaeodactylum-Tricornutum – known for its ability to change in shape in different water conditions. The parameters for these different water qualities were translated into flavour spectrums, resulting in a popsicle that shapeshifts and accordingly changes taste while eating.

The project began with extensive research on diatoms and phytoplankton, including interviews with experts in marine biology. Water samples were collected from the Baltic Sea and analyzed in the lab to study local diatom species. Insights from these investigations were translated into a narrative for the installation. Field recordings of water sounds were captured and incorporated into the immersive sound design. The visual component was created using a combination of digital tools and footage provided by researchers from around the world, bringing the microscopic diatoms to life at a human scale.