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Hybrid Art – The Intelligent Guerilla Beehive


Credit: AnneMarie Maes

AnneMarie Maes (BE)

Bees are bio-indicators. They reflect the health of their surrounding ecosystem and the effects of pollution. AnneMarie Maes addresses the increasing disappearance of honeybees in industrialized nations due to pesticides, parasites, air pollution, and the destruction of their foraging fields.

The Intelligent Guerilla Beehive is intended to offer refuge and protection to swarming bee colonies in urban areas. The outer membrane of the beehive (Sensorial Skin) is a smart fabric that integrates organic and electronic elements. Bacteria living in the upper cellulose skin act as biosensors. When they sense a specific degree of pollution they change colors an make patterns that reflect the environmental threats. A further, double-sided skin shelters a second type of bacteria that attacks the bees’ natural enemy – the Varroa destructor mite.

Inspired by the intelligence, complexity and self-organization of bee colonies, this artistic project combines smart materials, biomimetic forms, and biotechnology to call attention to the endangerment of honeybees.