A holotype is one of several possible types. A holotype is the single physical example (or illustration) of an organism, known to be used when the taxon was formally described.
The last years I have been mapping out a research on the Rapid Prototyping technology (RTP), through the “Holotypus” project. The project ended up with 7 RPT objects, each one a model of a microorganism from the deep sea. RPT is a collective expression for different layering techniques. With the help of a machine, which sprays plastic powder in layers, physical objects are created according to inputs from a CAD model. The rapid growth of new technology happens out of reach for the field of art, and the individual artist. It is often expensive and complicated to use. 3D printing is still in its youth, and on a longer term it will change the way we look at craft, the unique object, and the manufacture process. The future of mankind will be strongly influenced by technology. I am trying to understand how the advances in scientific discoveries influence both the society and the individual. How it will change the way we think and feel. And how it affects our personalities. If art is supposed to reflect the society and the times it are being created in, it is necessary that the artists are taking a critical and proactive approach to this reality. As artists we cannot leave these questions to scientists in their laboratories. We have to face the discussions with our knowledge and field of view. My choice of using marine microorganisms as models for my objects is based on the fact that it is in the smallest part of our existence the biggest changes takes part right now. That’s where the science now is focusing all its recourses. Nanotechnology will influence every field of our lives. It is very hard to understand and relate to this field of research as a layperson, and therefore very easy to ignore. Through these beautiful objects I try to overcome this obstacle, and stimulate a broader interest and discussion on these issues. All objects are modeled after sketches made by the German scientist Ernest Haeckel. (1834-1919)
Trine Wester 