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The idea of showcasing microbial art arose from a desire to change public perceptions of microbiology, often seen as monotonous. “Through a creative approach, we hope more people will become interested in, and even fall in love with, microbiology. There remains a common misconception that all bacteria are harmful, while in reality many are beneficial to human life,” explained Charlotte, a Microbiology student from the Class of 2022.

One of the featured works was created by cultivating microbes on agar media in specific patterns, later preserved in resin to ensure durability. Using simple materials such as agar, microbes, and resin, the artworks captivated audiences with their originality. Yet the process was not without challenges. Maintaining microbial growth required precise control of temperature, media, and timing, while resin preservation demanded accuracy. “If the composition is not accurate, the artwork may be damaged or the intricate microbial details may be lost,” Charlotte noted.

The exhibition conveyed the message that microbes are not solely associated with disease. Many are beneficial and can even serve as artistic media. “By combining agar, microbes, and resin, we can reveal another side of microbes that is unexpectedly beautiful. We hope visitors will become more open to the idea that microbes play many positive roles in our lives,” Charlotte added.

Designed to be appreciated by both scientists and the general public, the exhibition demonstrated that science can be presented in engaging and inspiring ways. Its uniqueness lay in the integration of scientific processes with artistic techniques, where each artwork not only offered a visual experience but also reflected real biological processes. “Visitors are not only viewing artworks, but also gaining an understanding of the biology behind them, something not found in typical art exhibitions,” Charlotte emphasized

Through the Microbial Art Exhibition, Indonesia Microbiology Day 2025 offered the public an opportunity to explore the microverse, the tiny yet fascinating world of microbes, from a perspective that is both creative and inspiring.

Reporter: Atika Widya Nurfaizah (Bio Management, 2025)