Eden 3: Plein Air

The aim of the Eden 3 project was to explore the idea of plant consciousness through an interdisciplinary approach that blends the arts and sciences. The project draws inspiration from the work of philosopher Edith Stein and the theories of Chamowitz and Trevawas. It focuses on the use of the Plein Air instrument, developed through a series of iterations, to explore the idea of a plant’s physiological response as a form of communication.

The project was led by Reiko Goto and involved collaboration with a plant physiologist to ensure the authenticity of the data collected and to develop programming that would allow the team to “hear the tree” through its physiological response. The Plein Air instrument allows us to hear the metaphorical sound of one leaf or one tree breathing, and raises questions about the ethics of our relationship with nature and the potential for artwork to contribute to a shift in societal attitudes towards the value of trees.

The project also highlights the ecofeminist critique of the instrumental and private interests that have subsumed the generative and reproductive aspects of the natural world, and the need for emancipation of these entities. The Eden 3 project contributes to the ongoing discourse about the relationship between humans and the natural world, and the role of art in promoting a more ethical and empathetic understanding of the environment.

For more, read the Eden3 Project website.