In the field of systems biology, research into temporal processes and changes plays a major role. This reflects SLIDES as a dynamic work of art.
SLIDES – microscope slides for light microscopy – are, so to speak, the interfaces between nature and research. “Microscope slides” are used to hold specimens that are examined and digitised.
The SLIDES art objects each consist of a glass plate in the proportions of the standardised microscope slides (76 x 26 mm according to DIN ISO 8037-1) that “floats” approx. 4 cm in front of the wall and a video display.
The glass top is 58 x 171 x 1 cm (portrait format) and has polished edges. The video display (46″, 58 x 103 x 3 cm, also portrait format) lies on the glass plate – analogous to a cover glass on the slide. It shows details of images that are currently being created and edited in the BIMSB. The image sequences quote the process of microscopy, of magnification, by zooming into graphics, photographs, computer models/animations once again.
The images on the displays are in constant change, always different and new. They reflect the current work processes and abstract them into graphic structures. The overall impression of the displays is calm, picturesque. abstraction and painterly power through the strong enlargement. Movements and changes happen slowly, sometimes almost imperceptibly, still images create further points of calm.
The SLIDES monitor objects span an arc from the beginnings of microscopy and the life sciences to the present day. Slides have been part of the daily tools of the trade in the laboratory for many BIMSB staff since their studies. Unlike in the past, today the images can also be recorded digitally. They are the source for some of the films on SLIDES. In addition, computer-generated images, MRI/tomography, visualisations, diagrams, models and graphics are included.
The image content for the displays is generated by a programme from the BIMSB’s current projects. The algorithm automatically selects files from a pool according to predefined criteria, analyses them and magnifies details 1000 to 5000 times. The result is highly abstracted images, colour gradients, painterly textures – which nevertheless hint at their origins.
