Embarking on a mesmerizing journey, I invite you to explore my groundbreaking art project, where cutting-edge 3D technology converges with a profound narrative to illuminate the silent perils of climate change. Crafted by me, Daniel Henri Kramer Luna, this digital terrarium unfolds nearly four decades of environmental data from Mexico City, offering a unique perspective on the gradual decay of nature as witnessed through the eyes of various species.
Drawing from extensive air quality, weather, and pollution data, the simulation dynamically mirrors real changes over time. Watch as trees shed their leaves, once vibrant soundscapes fade away, and airborne particles accumulate – all unfolding in sync with historical trends. Seamlessly blending rigorous scientific measurements with emotive artistry, my project exposes you to the slow violence inflicted by human activities on the natural world in a profoundly visceral manner.
At your leisure, you could either quickly access the TRAILER here or continue reading for a better understanding of the project and theory behind it.
In stark contrast to conventional climate change narratives focused on sudden catastrophes, this project emphasizes cumulative, normalized damage. Its goal is to evoke a sense of melancholy, allowing you to experience the perspective of ants, dogs, and birds as familiar environments subtly degrade across generations. Anticipating that this immersive virtual journey, presented in interactive 3D, will instill new urgency and insight into the escalating crisis.
Early feedback underscores the project's ability to transcend political divides and effectively communicate scientific data trends to a broad audience. Some liken its potential impact to the early VR visualizations of deforestation in the Amazon. With standardized data formats, every major city could develop its own terrarium, creating a global surveillance system to monitor local contributions to slow violence. Moreover, its gaming origins open the door for a younger audience worldwide to interact with habitat decline in a profoundly tangible way.
While currently a proof of concept, my digital terrarium hints at the potency of interactive art in framing intangible dangers and fostering broader discussions. As climate change advances, creative approaches like mine may become increasingly crucial in compelling individuals and policymakers toward meaningful action. The poignant question it poses is stark – if we could witness our slow destruction accumulating in real-time, would we act more urgently to halt it?
LINKS: EXPERIENCE, THESIS - (SPANISH), TRAILER