Chia Curtain (detail)
Jeff Schmuki, 2009, chia sprouts, refashioned and recycled products, dimensions variable, © 2009, courtesy of the artist
Jeff Schmuki
Jeff Schmuki explores the expressive qualities of plants as an artistic medium in his botanical drawings and wall installations. In many of his works, he introduces plant-based forms into urban settings, drawing attention to our isolation from nature and the basic human need for green space. Schmuki also addresses the modification of plants through genetic engineering, and the implications for our environment and food supply. In works such as “Monsanto Machine: GM Code,” he employs genetically-modified plants to create a composition that represents a genetic sequence. He disrupts the white walls and bare floors of human spaces with his programmed plantings, alluding to a future in which coding may disrupt our ecosystems. By leaving these installations to die in the gallery space, Schmuki ensures that we see the full cycle of intervention, as impressive feats of manipulation ultimately succumb to their isolation from the natural order.
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In the words of the artist: “Sustainability, the marginalization of nature in city life, and confrontations between natural systems and the built environment must be addressed. I am interested in using existing spaces and creating disruptions by placing horticulture and alternative power in unexpected locations. These indoor/outdoor works create temporary green spaces that require care and supervision from the community. Such works demonstrate that nature can take on a new role in affording the community an opportunity to engage in a constructive solution to sustainability, one that leads to consensus building and empowerment.”
Monsanto Machine (detail): GM Code
Jeff Schmuki, 2009, hydroponic genetically-modified wheat on wall, dimensions variable, © 2009, courtesy of the artist
The genetic modification of food crops is an actively-debated subject in our society. Some believe that the introduction of genetically-modified plants into our food supply has inherent risks to human health and the environment, and that there has been insufficient long-term testing of those risks. In the words of the artist: “Transgenic plants contain genes derived from species within the same kingdom (plant to plant) or between kingdoms (animal to plant). This genetic modification to our food is so new and untested that we have no idea what long term effects it will have on those who consume it, the lands on which it is grown, or what wide-ranging environmental impact can occur.” Organizations such as NRDC have decried the intensive application of toxic pesticides that often accompanies the use of GMO crops. Others argue, however, that genetic modification is one of many techniques used to manipulate our food, and that the public does not fully appreciate how those manipulations have produced the foods we eat today. This perspective on genetically-modified food is presented in thisTED talk by Jimmy Botella. Thisarticle explores the ongoing debate over the impact of GMOs on the use of pesticides and herbicides.
Lattice
Jeff Schmuki, 2009, nylon, wheat and growth medium, dimensions variable, © 2009, courtesy of the artist
Jeff Schmuki installs plant-based works within urban spaces, injecting life into these environments. His installations highlight the need to maintain green spaces where we live and where we work. Recent studies suggest a strong connection between access to green spaces and mental health, as described in this article from Smithsonian.com. There is also evidence that cities benefit economically frominvestments in green spaces.
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Jeff Schmuki creates botanical installations that disrupt human spaces, drawing attention to our isolation from the natural world and creating opportunities for engagement with nature. If you are inspired by his work, you can take action in your own life. Select one or more pledges listed below and spread the word. You can also learn more by visiting our Pledge Center. Let’s #EndOvershoot and save our #OneEarth.