Living with cork

This installation is a comment and an interpretation about the ecosystem that is characteristic of the Alentejo region of Portugal, in particular the one that surrounds the Cork oak. In its elements it interlaces untamed cork in its native form alongside transformed counterparts with components curated to bestow a sensory encounter.
It presents itself as pods where a miniature universe unfold and show the ecosystem in multiple forms. A series of terrariums play host to delicate branches of the cork oak, tender lichen, and verdant moss, encapsulating the harmonious coexistence. Adjacent, carefully conceived 3D sculptures offer an intricate glimpse into select fragments of the ecosystem.
Each pod, a vessel of time and aroma, emits a sequence of scents. Subtle hints of earthy moss and the gentle sweetness of blooming wildflowers fill your senses, recreating the movement of aromas that accompany your footsteps through the forest.
Throughout the video, a subtle narration silhouettes the symbiotic relationship between moisture, soil, and lichen. The viewer is invited to contemplate the delicate balance that sustains this microcosm. The lichen-covered trees stand as portrayals of this dance, an embrace of moisture-laden air and soil. Lichen paint the bark in hues of green, silver, red, and gold. Droplets of dew cling to these hardy organisms and slowly, the lichen absorb the moisture from the air and soil. Their intricate structures swell and expand in response. Water droplets become magnified worlds, each one cradling a microcosm of life.
Cyanotype images unveil the beauty and interdependence between life forms and sunlight in our ecosystem. Through a blend of micro and macro perspectives, these images capture the direct impact of sunlight on organisms such as lichen, bacteria, fungi, and plants. Each cyanotype composition is a work of art and science, crafted to showcase the profound effect of sunlight on life. The process itself, using the power of UV light, serves as metaphor for the very essence of this relationship. The images capture both the fragility and resilience of fungi, as they respond to the sun’s embrace.
Allowing the counterpoint of water unfold, a tapestry of soundscapes are an integral part of the installation. In each of these compositions, water takes center stage. As you listen, you are enveloped in the essence of existence, attuned to the balance of interconnectedness that defines our world. The soundscapes give moments to magnify the omnipresence of water in all of its various moments.
This work is the result of the collaborative practice of Marta de Menezes, Nuno Sousa, Sally Santiago, Anna Isaak-Ross, Diana Mordido Aires and André Araújo.

The Kinnara Fund’s exhibition titled “Living With Cork” showcases a captivating cork environment composed of skilfully sculpted capsules that evoke the senses, scents, and visuals of the cork ecosystem. This unique bio-art installation is the creative work of Marta de Menezes, a Portuguese artist who spent her childhood in the Alentejo region. The exhibition focuses on the significance of the cork tradition, which relies on the sustainable harvesting of cork oak trees. In this process, the cork bark is carefully peeled from the trees, approximately every nine years. After each harvest, the bark is left to dry naturally in the forest before being transported to a factory where it undergoes boiling and flattening. This traditional method, passed down through generations, has been used for thousands of years. Additionally, “Living With Cork” features captivating installations by American designer Robert Marinelli, who utilizes harvested cork in his creations. These innovative furniture and object designs are seamlessly integrated within Marta de Menezes’ cork environment. The collaboration between Robert and Marta symbolizes the relationship between creation and its source, emphasizing their interdependency. In summary, the exhibition “Living With Cork” presents an immersive experience that not only celebrates the remarkable qualities of cork, but also showcases the creative synergy between Marta de Menezes and Robert Marinelli through their captivating artworks.

Living with cork exhibition website here.