Photos by Berit Kraushaar

Ursula Damm in front of the monitor

view from second floor

Opening of the Building, Photo: Ursula Damm

In response to an invited competition "A Biological Clock" has been produced for the new Biodiversity Building in Berlin-Dahlem. The building is intended for researchers from various disciplines to work together on biodiversity in offices, laboratories, and communication areas that encourage discussion. Concepts were sought that incorporate architecture and outdoor space and emphasise the interdisciplinary character of the building. The aim is also to improve the dialogue between art and science.

A Biological Clock – The Rhythm of Life
The concept illustrates the natural rhythm of two aquatic organisms: the water flea (Daphnia) and a special mosquito (Chaoborus). These organisms are connected through their predator-prey relationship. The work translates scientific diagrams into an artistic graphic language. The rhythmic structure that is developed connects research and design by juxtaposing activity phases, migration, and developmental stages of the animals. Walking through the room reveals an annual cycle that harmoniously blends into the surrounding architecture. The installation is complemented by a monitor on the ground floor, which show the behaviour of the animals in their natural environment and link artistic abstraction with real imagery.

Image: rendering of the light court, done by Louis Oehler

Image: rendering of the light court, view from the second floor, done by Louis Oehler

Poster of the competition