Microbial Materiality

Join us for a deep dive into the world of bacterial cellulose and natural pigments. In this immersive workshop, you’ll explore the theory and practice of merging traditional craft making with novel material innovation. Using techniques adapted specifically for biodesigners, participants will have the chance to work with micro and macro organisms. From extracting natural pigments to cultivating cultures, this workshop will inform new avenues for sustainable designing and making. You’ll leave with your own set of samples, a starter culture as well as the skills and resources to expand your personal practice beyond the lab.

Instructor Bios

Akir:

Akir is a biodesigner and material researcher exploring the intersections of craft and regenerative systems. His recent work has focused on biofabrication, exploring traditional craft-based techniques and natural dyes alongside digital fabrication methods to develop bacterial cellulose materials and mycelium-based lighting design.

His work has also involved developing a low-tech mycelium filter that cleans textile dye wastewater using agricultural waste and ceramic vessels and authored Mapping Regenerative Practices in Sierra Leone, a book documenting environmental changemakers and local ecological knowledge in West Africa.

He has also co-founded the Biodesign Now podcast and guest lectured at Bath Spa University and lead workshops on cyanobacteria cultivation, bio-yarn making, and circular biomaterials from oyster shells to sharing biodesign knowledge with the aim shifting our material culture.

Lotte:

Lotte is a fashion-focused biodesigner and researcher whose practice bridges the gap between material innovation, traditional craftsmanship and systems-thinking. 

She has extensive professional and academic experience that spans across design, teaching and circular strategy. Her work within the industry has focused on addressing the social and environmental challenges of clothing production. She is currently employed in the fabric and sustainability department at a London-based womenswear label. 

Alongside this role, Lotte has been involved in an ongoing project that explores the potential of bacterial cellulose and bacterial pigments as alternative materials for the textile industry. Based in a biology lab, she has investigated methods of microbial cultivation, bio- fabrication, waste utilisation, regenerative processes, zero- waste pattern cutting and closed loop systems. 

Lotte’s creative process is guided by the belief that the future of fashion must be adaptive, collaborative and deeply rooted in ecological awareness.

Extra Info

Accessibility Statement:

Lifefabs Institute is committed to ensuring that our events and workshops are as accessible as possible and meet the ever-changing needs of our community. As we navigate the opportunities and challenges of our workshops, we are constantly learning and adjusting our workflows to prioritise accessibility.

We’d love to hear any feedback our community might have.

Please contact us at info@lifefabs.bio if you have any specific accessibility requirements or questions.

Seating:

Seating is usually unreserved for our events. If you and your group require seating reservations, please do let us know by emailing us at info@lifefabs.bio and we'd be more than happy to help.

Carers can receive a free ticket to an event by emailing info@lifefabs.bio

Support to Attend Our Events & WorkshopsLifefabs Institute may be able to offer financial assistance to enable adults or children to participate in our events and activities if this would otherwise be financially difficult. Please contact our team: info@lifefabs.bio and we will aim to agree a reduction or bursary or wavier your fee free of charge.