Entanglement

In a laboratory-like set up, visitors are invited to see Diana Scherer undertake what she refers to as 'collaborations with nature', growing networks of roots into unique patterns of woven textile. Known by neurobiologists as the brain of plants, Scherer draws attention to roots as active intelligent agents in the process of producing living fabrics.

Particularly fascinated by the hidden systems of plants, Scherer’s project Entanglement looks at xylem vessels, the tissue responsible for transportation of water through plants. Examining closely the interdependence of plants and water, the pattern is inspired by the forms of the xylem vessels in plant anatomy. The emergence of these water vessels is considered one of the most important evolutions in the life of plants.

'A root navigates, knows what is up and down, perceives gravity and can locate moisture and chemicals. Roots are incredibly strong. In their search for food and space they fight for every space they can find. I use this strength to create my work. I expose the subterranean life and the natural network turns into a textile-like material. The dynamism of the plant makes it seem as if the work is making itself.'—Diana Scherer