Er der liv på Mars

Images of plants taken out of their natural element and isolated in an undefined space.
3 Photo series, variable sizes, 2018.

Fig. V, (Krog-plante, vinter), detail I,
40×40 cm

Fig. VI, (Brandbæger, vinter), detail I,
40×40 cm

In the series of photographs titled “Is there life on Mars !?” Marie Rømer Westh works with images of wild plants collected at the former airport Tempelhof in Berlin. A place marked by ideological power demonstrations of the past.
The plants are taken out of their natural element and isolated in an undefined empty and dark room. A weightless and empty space reminiscent of the outer space or the bottom of the sea. With these images, Marie Rømer Westh creates an aesthetic and sensual experience of life in a dead space and thus a comment on the idea that human beings can leave earth and live on a dead planet.
The full scale series measure 130×180 cm therefore creating a mirroring effect between the viewer and the image thus making projection between audience and plant possible.

Fig. VI (Krog-plante), 130×180 cm

Fig. IV (Kløvplade, vinter), 130×180 cm

The project includes an audio piece created in collaboration with sound artist and DJ B9. A sound universe based on recordings from NASA and a sound design of what an ear would be able to hear in the silent outer space.

Outer Space

by MRW & B9

Fig. V (Brandbæger, vinter), 130×180 cm

Fig. III (Rublad, vinter), 130×180

Fig. VII (Vild Kørvel, vinter), 130×180 cm

Fig. II (Perikon, vinter), 130×180 cm

Fig. I (Gyldenris, vinter), 130×180

Fig. IX (Humle, vinter), 130×180 cm

The project includes two smaller format series (40×40 cm and 100×100 cm) in which Marie Rømer Westh works with sections from the large plants. Here, details of the plants are explored with an increased state of weightlessness.