“Biophilia” the term popularized by American biologist and author Edward O. Wilson to describe his theory that, as humans have evolved as a species, they have been intricately intertwined with the natural world, is the central theme of the Denver Art Museum‘s exhibition Biophilia: Nature Reimagined del Denver Art Museum The exhibition, which opened in early May and is open to the public until August 11, features the rug Plastic Rivers No.6: Ganges, designed by Álvaro Catalán de Ocón for GAN.
This piece, woven by artisans in India using the hand-tufted technique and fibers made entirely from recycled plastic waste collected from the Ganges River, has been selected to be part of the exhibition for its ability to highlight the transformative power of nature and promote a deeper awareness of the natural world. The rug faithfully and strikingly represents an aerial view of the geographical surroundings of the river to send a message about the ecological crisis involving one of the most polluted rivers in the world. Combining art and activism, Álvaro Catalán de Ocón invites us to consider the urgent need to preserve rivers from plastic pollution.
It is not the first time Plastic Rivers has been recognized for its environmental responsibility. Since the collection’s launch three seasons ago, it has received prestigious industry accolades, such as the Ro Plastic Prize 2021 in the Urban Public Furniture Design section and the NYCxDESIGN Award 2022 in the Environmental Impact category.
Providing a space for architects, artists, and designers to reexamine and revitalize our intrinsic connection with the natural world, highlight the transformative power of nature. Organized by Darrin Alfred, Biophilia: Nature Reimagined brings together over 80 imaginative works, including designs and objects, architectural models and photographs, digital installations, and immersive artistic experiences that collectively highlight the transformative power of nature. Organized by Darrin Alfred, Architecture and Design Curator of at the Denver Art Museum, it features works by an international roster of designers and artists including Iris van Herpen, Studio Gang, teamLab, Joris Laarman, and DRIFT, among others.
Denver Art Museum
BIOPHILIA: NATURE REIMAGINED
#BiophiliaDAM
May, 5 – August, 11 2024
Hamilton Building, Level 2
