MATRIX
A hidden lichenised world revealed through a slow scanning movement of the electron microscope, matching the rotating sculpture that is paused to capture the matrix.
Visitor interacting with Matrix looking at the sealed lichen samples (detail)
Matrix overview including the Identity installation in the background (detail)
Video capturing the viewer and artist, Marta Ferracin, looking at the sealed lichen samples and at the electron microscopy lichen scanning video (extract)
Bioart multimedia installation
In Matrix (2024) the identities of lichen macro biological algae and fungi are slowly revealed and juxtaposed via a series of electron microscopy digital videos.
The artist’s intention is to maintain the slow scanning movement of the electron microscope, necessary for the beam of electrons to properly skim the lichen samples.
The merging images, the immersive sound, and the blue/violet digital tint enhance a mysterious and sci-fi impression inspired by this hidden world.
The rotating sculpture highlights the sealed lichen samples, which are the matrix for the lichen electron microscopy process to reveal their surfaces with an objective of magnification x 40 and a field of view diameter 500 microns (0.56 mm).
Artwork details
| Artwork | Matrix (2024) |
| Material | Mixed media, video, sculpture including sealed lichens samples |
| Dimensions | 160(L) x 120(W) x 286(H) cm |
| Price | POA |
| Exhibition |
Marta Ferracin: Convergences
Incinerator Art Space, Willoughby City Council, Willoughby, AU 21 March - 14 April Artist talk 6 April Workshop 13 April |
| Links | Willoughby City Council Art Collector Willoughby Community Preschool |
Credits
Electron microscopy facilitators
Naveena Gokoolparsadh and Vijay Bhatia (SMM, The University of Sydney)
Soundtracks
Terra Mangala_Meditation_Reflective Fog
Activation design
Chris Daniel
Photos and video
Corey Rankin; Christopher Verheyden; courtesy of the visitors
Research support project
Creative Australia
Provision of Incinerator Art Space
Willoughby City Council
© Marta Ferracin 2025 Website by Natalia
Installation assistant Christopher Verheyden