Flight of the Dandelion
My artwork and experiments whilst at the Biology Form and Function Lab contributed to discovering a new method of flight, never seen before in nature, published in Nature:
Cummins, C., Seale, M., Macente, A. et al. A separated vortex ring underlies the flight of the dandelion. Nature 562, 414–418 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-018-0604-2
Flight of the Dandelion delves into the overlooked beauty and resilience of the common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), often dismissed as a mere weed.
This artwork captures the intricate tiny structures, remarkable flight and biomimetic capabilities of dandelion seeds through a combination of timelapse photography, CT scans, and 3D modeling. By painting the dandelion in gold, the fine filaments were rendered visible to lasers, revealing the stunning complexity of its form.
Flight of the Dandelion, timelapse sequences showcase the pappus in a humidity chamber, highlighting the delicate responses to micro water droplets. These artworks born from experimental design, transform the dandelion into an object of beauty and resilience, inviting viewers to reconsider their perceptions and appreciate the hidden wonders of nature.
Through this work, I aim to inspire curiosity and contemplation about the biological and physical phenomena that surround us, encouraging a deeper connection with the natural world and a recognition of the intricate systems we are part of.
Gold Seed: Taraxacum Offinale
Gold-plated Taraxacum officinale, CT (Computed Tomography) scan.
A 3D visualisation of a dandelion seed, revealing its intricate filaments and structural details.
