the most infesting species

Open call for the realization of a site-specific installation in Mata do Fontelo, Viseu.

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location
Mata do Fontelo, Viseu, Portugal
year
2021

 

The most infesting species is a reflection on the relationship between humans and nature. The project uses the alternation of square and circle as symbols of separation and search for a new wholeness.

 

If Mata do Fontelo (1) represents for Viseu 'the Natural and Native Space, which allowed for an ecosystem to be developed upon', The most infesting species stands as a symbol of separation from it (2).

A new ecosystem is formed by a structure filled with ivy, one of the few infesting species in the woods and therefore indication of men presence and mutation of nature.

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Humans evolved from an initial state of interconnectedness to a one of separation. However, a new attempt at wholeness and contact with our environment is now needed more than ever.

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Visitors are invited to enter in the square with bare feet, reconnecting with the soil (3). The reflection of Mata do Fontelo constantly awaits to be reintegrated with ours in a central mirror (4), but also leaves us with a missing piece. Are we actively pursuing this connection?

 

At the centre of the mirror, a little square stands as indication of a new separation. Where virtuality could be seen as a new way to detach from reality, it can also be used as a powerful instrument to reconnect with it.

 

The QR code (5) is the access to an online platform, a portal connecting in one place the content coming from qr codes spread all around Mata do Fontelo. Used for informative purposes it should also work as a brainstorming space.

Visitors are invited to answer some questions, leave ideas, work toward a common goal.

 

How can we reintegrate with nature?