Scott Hunter

20/08/2024

Exciting news! The online publication for the Genescapes project is now live and available for download. Check it out through the link in my bio! This document is a living piece, updated periodically as the research evolves.

Genescapes is a collaborative effort between myself and Dr Keira Tucker at the ASCUS Art & Science Lab exploring the transformative potential of genetically modified plants, focusing on Mentha piperita (peppermint), to tackle environmental pollutants through phytoremediation. By enhancing the Metallothionein gene, we're working to create a plant species capable of efficiently extracting silver and other contaminants from photographic fixers and polluted environments.

Despite the technical challenges, it's rewarding to reflect on the creative opportunities that have emerged from this collaboration. We've produced artwork that captures the project's themes, gained valuable scientific and artistic skills, and built strong relationships with scientists, artists, researchers, and institutions.

Public and community engagement is at the heart of our mission. Through exhibitions, workshops, talks, and publications, we've sparked important discussions on environmental issues and genetic engineering. We welcome your questions and feedback—so, let's keep the conversation going!

Looking ahead, we're excited to expand Genescapes to include more plant species and heavy metal pollutants. Furthermore, we're working on producing an immersive and interactive installation to raise awareness about the potential of genetic engineering to address environmental challenges.

13/08/2024

Ever wondered what used photo developer looks like under the microscope?

The first image above is a composite image of 60 micrographs stitched together...the second image being one of the micrographs used.

Part of the Library of Evaporated Substances series, it explores the intricate crystalline interactions and transformations associated with these processes. Through microscopy and image manipulation, the series creates visually intriguing compositions that invite viewers to contemplate the chemical complexity and toxicity of photographic solutions. The semi-abstract nature of the imagery encourages multiple layers of interpretation, inviting viewers to engage with the intersection of art, scientific processes, and the environmental impacts of analogue photography.

You can read more about the Genescapes research project using the link in bio.

               

26/07/2024

This weekend is your final chance to catch Methapmorphosis at Saatchi Gallery before it closes this Sunday, 28th July. It's been a pleasure to exhibit alongside the talented .romero, , and . The synergy between the works and the inspiring energy shared has made this exhibition an enjoyable experience.

A huge shoutout and heartfelt thanks to the fantastic team at Saatchi Gallery. A special nod to for her unwavering support and for sponsoring the show.

                     

01/07/2024

Last four weeks to catch Metamorphosis at Saatchi Gallery! A huge thanks to everyone who has attended, especially those who travelled from Scotland. Art critic Tabish Khan has rated the show as one of the top 5 exhibitions in London this summer; you can read his review at Fad Magazine.

Despite being dosed with 175ml of used fixer daily, the plants are thriving in the gallery space and growing out of the tank!

If my schedule allows, I hope to revisit London before the show closes and catch up with those who have shown particular interest in the project and its future research possibilities.

Finally, I'm collating the research data from the current Genescapes project and will begin updating my website sharing some of the artistic output over the coming weeks.

Installation views courtesy of Saatchi Gallery London, © Harry Sweeney

                   

10/06/2024

Here are two of my microscopy images currently on display in my Metamorphosis exhibition . These works reveal the intricate details of the chemical solutions used in my analogue photographic practice.

The image on the left depicts the interactions between silver nitrate and soil extracted using sodium hydroxide, two chemicals used in the soil chromatography process. The image on the right illustrates the complexity of silver thiosulphate (used photographic fixer) and the chemical and physical changes it undergoes after processing negative film. These are composite images, comprising between 50-70 photographs stitched together and cropped to a similar aspect ratio to the microscopic glass slides on which they were captured.

I will discuss these processes further at the artist talk & microscopy workshop on Saturday, June 15th, 11:00 - 15:00hrs. Link in bio.

05/06/2024

NEW WORKSHOP!

Join me for an artist talk and hands-on workshop where you will delve into the intricate microscopic structures of plants and uncover their remarkable ability to store heavy metals. You will learn to use various microscopes and stains to identify key areas within the plant's vascular systems.

I will be sharing insights from the Genescapes research on genetically enhancing peppermint plants to accumulate silver, providing a fascinating intersection of art and science. This practical workshop is designed for participants of all backgrounds and experience levels—no prior knowledge is needed. Materials will be provided.

We strive to create an inclusive environment, please contact ASCUS Lab ([email protected]) in advance to discuss any accessibility requirements.

This workshop is proudly supported by Creative Scotland and ASCUS Art & Science.

03/06/2024

Here are some installation shots showing the breadth of work I have on show in my current exhibition .

METAMORPHOSIS: Innovation in eco-photography and film showcases four award-winning photographers and filmmakers who are pioneering eco-conscious photography and film. The works explores their relationship with materials, process and methodologies, marrying both the political and the poetic.

I'm really pleased with the feedback and how this exhibition has turned out, so I'd urge you to visit if you're in London.

The exhibition also features the amazing works of .romero , , and . The show runs from May 26th to July 28th, 2024, in Gallery 4 at the Saatchi Gallery and is free to attend.

               

01/06/2024

A big thank you to everyone who joined us for the opening of METAMORPHOSIS on Wednesday. It was fantastic to see such a large turnout and witness years of hard work in the studio and lab make its way into the mainstream. If you find yourself in London in the next few months, please make sure to visit the show. The exhibition is beautifully curated, and there is a wonderful synergy between the works.

The exhibition also features the amazing works of .romero, , and . The show runs from May 26th to July 28th, 2024, in Gallery 4 and is free to attend.

Installation views courtesy of Saatchi Gallery London, © Harry Sweeney

             

22/05/2024

Opens on Friday!

THE work of a Dunfermline artist is to go on display at the prestigious Saatchi Gallery in London.

27/04/2024

Join me in the gallery at during Kyotographie for the final two days of our show!

The exhibition combines two distinct perspectives to delve into the profound dialogue between photography and our ever-shifting landscapes Spread across two floors, the work plays with scale and explores multiple temporalities such as deep time, ephemeral patterns, and gestures left by non-human agencies.

I'll be at the gallery both days, and we look forward to seeing you there!

Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Motomachi, 367-5

Open: 4.27 Sat.–4.28 Sun. 15:00–19:00

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