Bio-sculptures to Nourish the Tongues of Water

As a convergence of art, ecology, and ancestral knowledge, we held a living bio-sculpture workshop during the final session of Materia Abierta and the first session of the Intergenerational Living Biocultural Archive: Nourishing the Tongues of Water, in Xochimilco, Mexico City, in August and September 2024.

Using microorganisms collected from areas of high biodiversity, the living bio-sculptures aim to restore eroded soils and waters. Each piece is a symbolic offering and a reminder that bioremediation is not just a technical process, but a practice of care, observation, and respect for natural cycles.

In various cultures of Central and South America, these microorganisms have been called “Alma del Bosque,” “Kakabb lulú,” “Quauhtlalli,” or “Seynekun,” reflecting their essential role in ecosystem regeneration. Through the fermentation of local materials, these living sculptures silently work to purify water, fostering a sustainable relationship with nature. During the workshop, each living sculptural form conveyed a message to nourish the waters.

Would you like to make one? Here’s how:

Bioremediation uses mountain microorganisms, also known as Forest Seed or Living Soil, to restore polluted aquatic ecosystems. These fungi and bacteria break down toxic waste, neutralize odors, and help balance the water.

Ingredients

3 kg of local clay
3 handfuls of bran, husks, or local flours
2 kg of solid mountain microorganisms
500 ml of liquid mountain microorganisms
500 ml of rainwater

Preparation

1. Mix the ingredients, integrating the dry elements before adding the liquids. The consistency should be malleable, similar to bread or ceramic dough.
2. Shape small sculptures and place them in baskets lined with newspaper or kraft paper.
3. Let them ferment for 1 to 2 weeks in a well-ventilated place, protected from sun and rain.
4. Once covered with fungi, throw them into the river or body of water, placing one per square meter, ideally during the rainy season.

This action, in addition to being symbolic, can contribute to the recovery of natural spaces, but its effectiveness will depend on the area’s conditions. For larger-scale interventions, we recommend working in collaboration with local communities and authorities.

COLLABORATORS

Alessandro Valerio Zamora

Adriana Cadena Roa

Mariana Martínez Balvanera 

Materia Abierta