This panel is a fresh dive into the fascinating connections between humans, nonhumans, and microorganisms. Inspired by Donna Haraway’s concept of the Chthulucene and ideas from Menyoal Ketubuhan dan Nilai Performatifnya, we’ll look at how these relationships break down human-centered thinking and show the body as a space shared with other species.
We’ll touch on traditional Southeast Asian rituals and dance, seeing them as acts of collaboration between humans and the environment. These practices, combined with art-science projects like bio-art installations, help us understand how life is all about interdependence and balance.
Helmi Hardian, a hands-on artist who loves blending DIY tech with creativity, and Angela Sunaryo, an artist exploring identity and nature through sound and performance, will share their unique perspectives. From DIY biohacking to cultural storytelling, they’ll talk about how connecting with other species can inspire new ways of thinking about art, ecology, and technology.
This session invites participants of the Taboo - Transgression - Transcendence in Art & Science conference to engage with critical questions: How can art and science help us see the hidden networks in the microbiome? What can traditional practices teach us about living in balance? And how can understanding these connections lead to a better, more sustainable future?
Helmi Hardian is a grassroots artist and ghetto scientist, with a specific interest in cooking and smoking at the same time. He lives in Surabaya, the city that is well known for its industry and technology, as well as being the center of electronic component trading (chiefly, Pasar Genteng). Hence, almost all of his works are closely related to science and technology as the medium of creativity. He is the co-founder of Waft Lab, a creative-based initiative that works at interdisciplinary practices. Currently, he focuses on tech development through DIY/DIWO culture and playing his role in researching, hacking, or deconstructing daily materials to provide some devices with new functional aspects, as well as developing workshop kits, lecturing contents, and presentation materials, which aim to learn, share, and exchange knowledge.
Angela Sunaryo (b. 2002, Indonesia) is a multidisciplinary artist whose work explores themes of identity, heritage, and interconnectedness. Raised in the dynamic city of Cikarang, she draws inspiration from her Indonesian, Chinese, and Dutch heritage, combining sound, performance, and photography to create thought-provoking works. Her artistic approach reflects a nuanced understanding of cultural intersections and the evolving dynamics of human relationships.
A pivotal moment in her practice occurred in 2023 during the Indonesian International Student Mobility Award, where her encounter with Indonesian exile Soegeng Soejono deepened her engagement with diaspora narratives. Angela’s exploration is further informed by her interest in "quantum listening," a concept she integrates into her practice to investigate the interplay between human experiences and environmental contexts.
Angela’s works address contemporary global challenges, including climate change and the future of humanity, through layered and immersive experiences. By fostering dialogue and community participation, she seeks to bridge gaps and create shared spaces for reflection and understanding. Her practice emphasizes balance and coexistence, encouraging audiences to navigate the complexities of modern life with heightened awareness.
Currently pursuing a degree in Fine Arts at the Bandung Institute of Technology, Angela continually expands her artistic scope. Her practice is marked by intellectual rigor and an acute sensitivity to societal and environmental issues, positioning her as a compelling voice in contemporary art. Through her multidisciplinary approach, Angela offers a profound commentary on the shared challenges and aspirations of humanity in an interconnected world.
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