Migrating Birds Mimicking the Structure of Polyethylene Molecules 2009
Since most of them do not biodegrade at any appreciable rate and no living organisms currently on earth can eat them synthetic polymers may...
Description
Since most of them do not biodegrade at any appreciable rate, and no living organisms currently on earth can eat them, synthetic polymers may prove to be one of mankind’s most long-lasting creations. As discarded plastics are carried by the wind across the ground, or washed against rocks by ocean waves, they are broken down into tinier and tinier bits. As minute particles, it can travel throughout the environment in more subtle and insidious ways. Why do these birds fly in these formations? The reason could be chemical – maybe plastic particles ingested in their food have reprogrammed their brains. Or the reason could be evolutionary – perhaps over time these birds have sensed that they may have something to gain by mimicking the structure of these molecules that are so durable.
Carin Mincemoyer is a sculptor and installation artist who currently lives and works in Pittsburgh, PA. In her recent work, she has utilized recycled materials such as Styrofoam and plastic packaging to create works that examine the often contradictory desires that we look to the natural world to fulfill. She is the recipient of several awards, including a 2007 grant from the Pollock-Krasner Foundation, Fellowships from the PA Council on the Arts in 2002 and 2007 and an Individual Artist Award from the Pittsburgh Foundation.