Immersive design through the lens of ecological regeneration

Explore the 'IMAGINE: Coral Reef' exhibition at Science Gallery Bengaluru, highlighting ecological regeneration through stunning crocheted coral installations.

In a dimly lit room giant “coral reefs”, made of 30 km of meticulously crocheted paper, stand illuminated with a purple-blue fluorescent light to symbolise the “tipping point” of these vulnerable sea creatures: their last cry before they die.

The travelling exhibition titled ‘IMAGINE: Coral Reef’, at the Science Gallery Bengaluru, is curated by the Institute of Design Research, Vienna, and hopes that research-driven narratives offer a glimpse into both beauty and fragility of coral ecosystems, often described as the “rainforests of the sea” for the remarkable biodiversity they support.

Inspired by one of nature’s most complex ecosystems, the installations rethinks design through the lens of regeneration and reflects on innovative approaches to ecological responsibility. The exhibition aims to spark conversations, especially among the youth, around design, ecology, and our shared environmental future.

Coral reefs, made of crocheted paper, on display at the Science Gallery Bengaluru on Thursday. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Jahnavi Phalkey, founding director of the Science Gallery Bengaluru, said that the endeavour brought scholars and artists together.

Lotte Kristoferitsch, the curator, said it was ironical that Austria, a landlocked nation, should embark on such a project, “but climate change is affecting all of us” and coral bleaching is concerning for the entire planet.