Karolina Ferenc

Prizes: Gijs Bakker Award Nominee

Department: Social Design
Website: www.karolinaferenc.com

Lichen in Love

Humans seem to find many non-human things problematic
and unimportant. Researching this attitude, Karolina Ferenc
built a case study around the relationship between man
and lichen. Associated with decay and aging, lichen is frequently
removed from man-made environments. At the same time,
it is admired by scientists for its ability to survive in extreme
conditions, like outer space. ‘Lichen in Love’ shows the natural
bond between humans and lichen by means of a love story.
It offers a glimpse of a potential transition to a new era, closing
the gap between these organisms and us. A set of designed
objects reflects a growing intimacy. From a scientific balloon
that escorts lichen to a safe place far away from humans,
to an oxygenating mouthpiece, or a lamp that sheds light on
this unique life form. The objects are accompanied by a set
of love letters showcasing a new and impassioned relationship
with nature.