Future Botanica

What is nature, and how do we, as (Western) humans, relate to it?

The fundamental image of nature constantly clashes with the rapid evolution in knowledge, technology, and ideas about it. FUTURE BOTANICA is an Augmented Reality app that enables users, in collaboration with an AI, to design speculative ecosystems with new nature. These virtual ecosystems are then planted into the existing physical nature, allowing exploration of ideas, expectations, fears, and desires regarding future nature. Users experience that any addition or alteration to an ecosystem affects the functioning of the entire ecosystem. With Future Botanica, we aim to challenge our audience to speculate on the transitions ahead. By collecting and sharing stories and ideas from different people and generations, new perspectives emerge, acting as a time capsule for the future.

Now premiering at MU Hybrid Art Space, in Eindhoven (October 19 – November 10)
and IDFA doclab, competition Digital Storytelling, in Amsterdam (November 12-24)

Production details

Future Botanica is a Polymorf and Studio Biarritz production
Designed by Polymorf and Studio Bleu
Commissioned by: MU Hybrid Art Space
Supported by: The creative industries fund Digital Culture and Fentener van Vlissingen Fund and the Film Fund DocLab Interactive Grant.