Collaborating with Nature

About

Biomimetic or biomimicry is the emulation of the models, systems and elements of nature for the purpose of solving complex human problems. Jill Townsley has been the artist in residence at the Centre for Biomimetic Societal Futures at Huddersfield University, and now presents an interim exhibition of preliminary artwork in response to the rich and varied biomimetic research that takes place at the Centre.

The Centre for Biomimetic Societal Futures is a new multi-disciplinary research centre within the University of Huddersfield, and based in Huddersfield Business School. Their aim is to expand biomimetic research beyond its more traditional STEM and design focus to develop cross-disciplinary projects that address the shape of societal futures. We therefore look to support a range of innovative research that explores nature-inspired answers to the social and organisational questions of our time.

Biomimicry is an approach to solving human problems that learns from natural principles that allow all living organisms to survive and thrive. In line with this ethos, the Centre's research consciously emulates natural principles, processes, and systems to contribute to societal futures that bolster sustainable ways of living for all life on earth. Aspiring to address social challenges, and enhance societal life by collaborating with nature.

Townsley's role is to collaborate with the Centre’s researchers to produce artwork that invites discussion and enquiry around biomimetic research.

Her work explores the gap between human systems of research, innovation, and culture, and the tangible impact of those systems on the world around us. This includes the difficult space between human processes and nature’s ecology. Townsley’s artwork connects with scientific and technological enquiry by questioning the underlying logic of systems. Consequently, her work has drawn together scientific, artistic and political communities to discuss the questions she explores.

Trained as a sculptor at the Royal College of Art, Townsley’s sculptural practice consists of large installations and sculptures, supported by photography, video, drawings and text. Her sculptures invariably embody scientific and biomimetic structures in their form or image. She locates her artworks’ conceptual meaning in the act and process of making, thus looking beyond objects towards procedures that oscillate between generative and degenerative investigations.

Her artwork for the Centre aims to highlight the human potential to learn from nature’s systems in order to conceive of creative possibilities for future societies. Her work seeks to offer a visual place to dream about a future in which humans collaborate with nature.