Penelope Ajani
Penelope Ajani
Collaborative Project
Background
Dr Penelope Ajani is a visual artist working at the intersection between science and art. She holds a BSc and PhD in Marine Biology and has worked in academia, government and as a private consultant (Director, Blooming Algae). Like engineers, architects and artists throughout history, Penny is captivated by the intricate beauty of the microscopic world. Her work focuses on marine plankton, specifically microalgae, the foundational organisms of our oceans. These organisms produce 50% of the oxygen we breathe, support entire marine food webs, and yet like everything are threatened by climate change.
​
Penny’s work involves isolating organisms from the ocean, and then using careful technical precision and visual intuition, capturing the haunting elegance of these life forms using light or electron microscopy. Finally, by shifting the scale and placing them in an artistic realm, Penny showcases the extraordinary patterns, pores, and filigree of these organisms, an architecture measured in microns yet monumental in beauty and significance.
​
Penny’s work hopes to increase awareness of marine ecosystems and environmental stewardship to a wide audience, while deepening the interconnectedness between art and science.
What holds particular significance for you in/about Neilsen Park country and Bottle and Glass Point?
Seymour is particularly drawn to seaweed, a vital component in marine systems that provides food and habitat for diverse aquatic life. Seaweed aquaculture further positions itself as a potential aid in the climate crisis, holding uses as food, biofuels and fertilisers. It is important to recognise that First Nations have a deep and diverse traditional knowledge of Australian natural resources, including seaweed. Through Seymour’s research for the Rockpools project, she considers sustainable and ethical methods of ‘extracting’ seaweed as a material for artistic purposes.
How do you create spaces for contemporary leadership, learning and collaboration with other people and the environment?
My work and leadership evolves tentatively but with focus. When people come together to discuss and learn, an approach that relies on openness, honesty, respect and dedication is required. I try to uphold this in all my movements as artist, collaborator, student and teacher.
.jpg)
Images
Resources
Name
Resource
Name
Resource
Name
Resource
Name
Resource
Name
Resource
Name
Resource
Name
Resource
Name
Resource
Name
Resource
Name
Resource
We live and work on Bidjigal, Birrabirragal and Gadigal Country. We honour the ongoing cultural and ecological relationships First Nations Australians hold with Country, waters and skies and acknowledge their continued custodianship.
​
Copyright 2023, Floorplan Studio