Circular is a site-specific installation at the Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB.
It embodies a diverse and biobased economy (bioeconomy) – a system that strives for sustainability and circularity – by displaying different facets of scientific research in this field. As a central element, Circular is located in the institute's atrium in Stuttgart.
Context
IGB researches bio-based materials made from renewable materials rather than fossil fuels, which are characterized by a high recyclability and thus allow efficient and versatile applications. As part of the project Look@BioEconomy, this cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute enabled a head-on exchange of art and science.
© Fraunhofer IGB
© Fraunhofer IGB
Concept
16 panes carry different materials that are currently being researched at the IGB. These hanging objects provide a tangible optical insight into the current state of research. They are mounted vertically, interconnected by wires, allowing them to be thought of as continuous paths. The installation thus refers to the dynamic and ever developing nature of the bioeconomy. Circular gives shape to this ongoing process and the work of scientists at the institute.
Visuality
The construction aesthetically references the institute building itself, its laboratories and technical equipment. Brightly reflective metal and transparent glass make the installation appear effortless while Circular's detached position offers various spatial perspectives. As an intrinsic part of the stairwell, the installation sends impulses for open science communication.
Aluminum profiles and sheets, wire cable, bio-based materials set in tempered glass sheets
108 × 108 × 500 cm
Client: Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB
Concept, development, design and assembly: Niklas Thran, Robin Woern
Architectural consultation: Ute Schimmelpfennig
Statics: Technik & Design M. Maile
Installation support: Felix Schäfer, ro.handmade design
Manufacturing: Liboh Metallwerkstatt GmbH, BE GLASS GmbH, item Industrietechnik GmbH
Photography: © Robin Woern und Niklas Thran / Fraunhofer IGB
Press: »Kunstwerk als Botschafter für die Bioökonomie«, Bioökonomie.de, 28.12.2023
Press: »Kunstwerk »Circular« als Botschafter für die Bioökonomie«, Fraunhofer IGB, 13.12.2023
108 × 108 × 500 cm
Special recognition goes to the scientists and employees of Fraunhofer IGB, Lisa Kern, Sabine Krieg, Elke Präg, Benham Parwizi and Maik Schalge. The project was supported by Sophie Hundbiss, Stefan Hundbiss, David Krebs, Carsten Nicolai, Alexander Nitzke, Adrian Pfisterer, Luisa Roth, Benedikt Schaber, Felix Schäfer, Inge Schelske, Ute Schimmelpfennig, Heidi Schwarz, Ralf T., Bruno Wörn and Kerstin Wörn.
Client: Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB
Concept, development, design and assembly: Niklas Thran, Robin Woern
Architectural consultation: Ute Schimmelpfennig
Statics: Technik & Design M. Maile
Installation support: Felix Schäfer, ro.handmade design
Manufacturing: Liboh Metallwerkstatt GmbH, BE GLASS GmbH, item Industrietechnik GmbH
Photography: © Robin Woern und Niklas Thran / Fraunhofer IGB
Press: »Kunstwerk als Botschafter für die Bioökonomie«, Bioökonomie.de, 28.12.2023
Press: »Kunstwerk »Circular« als Botschafter für die Bioökonomie«, Fraunhofer IGB, 13.12.2023