"Holobionts," a long-term project that initiated in 2020, suggests an immersive exploration into the intricate symphony between a host and the myriad species dwelling within and around it. This amalgamation, a holobiont, constitutes a discreet ecological entity, exemplified by the remarkable ecosystems of coral reefs, soil matrices, and human beings.

 

As the scientific canvas broadens, a mounting body of evidence illuminates the profound influence of the microbiome on human physiology and psychology. The human body's microbiota extends its reach to the blood-brain barrier, a sentinel regulating cerebral exchanges. Even the production of serotonin, a paramount mood-regulating chemical, is subject to the sway of gut microbiota. Delving deeper into the holobiont theory, this interconnectedness extends to the brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a linchpin in learning, memory, and higher-order cognition, influenced by these microfloral companions. Could it be that our very essence, behaviors, and destiny are intertwined with these microorganisms that dwell within and upon us? Moreover, the unique constellations of microbiota on our skin, in our oral and nasal realms, might shape the contours of our five senses. The profound influence of vaginal microflora on the well-being of our progeny further underscores the far-reaching effects of these microbial companions.

 

The upheaval of the Covid-19 pandemic serves as a testament to the potency harbored within a single micro specie. With a staggering microbiota populace outnumbering our own cells tenfold, their latent power over our existence becomes undeniable. Are they, in their own enigmatic way, the guardians of our corporeal sanctuaries?

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"Holobionts" represents my endeavor to reclaim the agency vested in these almost ethereal communities that call our bodies home. Through three evocative soft sculptures, each crafted from a deeply symbolic medium – human waste collected from Sam Son beach, Vietnam. This choice of material reverberates as a stark reminder of our choices and their repercussions on our well-being. Just as the environment molds these microbial companions, sculpting the air we breathe, the water we drink, the sustenance we ingest, and the very soil nurturing our nourishment, our existence pivots on their delicate interplay.

 

The "Holobionts" project emerges as an illustration to the uncharted realms within, an ode to our complex symbiosis with nature's unassuming architects. It beckons us to reconsider the stewardship we bear for these ecosystems, echoing in every breath, every heartbeat, and every choice we make.