Diana Scherer

Diana Scherer is a visual artist living and working in Amsterdam. Her work encompasses photography, material research, plant root-weaving and sculpture.

For the past few years, she has focused her attention on the dynamics of belowground plant parts. She is captivated by the root system, with its hidden underground processes; it is considered to be the brain of the plant, by plant neurobiologists.

Using subterranean templates as molds, the root systems of plants are channeled, forming a textile-like material. During the growth process the roots conform to the patterns and the root material weaves or braids itself.

In her work, she explores the relationship man has with his natural environment and his desire to control nature. For her research she collaborates with biologists and ecologists of the Radboud University in Nijmegen, learning more about which types of roots grow fast and train easily (oats and wheat). In the future, will we be growing our own fashion in the ground?

Currently her work Rootbound#2, a dress grown from plant roots, is featured in the exhibition Fashioned From Natureand the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. The show runs till January 27, 2019.

Watch Diana Scherer in her studio:

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ySuzQ5TE3Eo