Lovers of nature and greenery are in for a treat as architecture studio Kernel Design, along with Cloud-floor and Green Volunteer, relaunch The Terrarium — Redressing the Im/balance, an immersive spatial experience that recreates the wonderful feeling of being surrounded by lush greenery, but in an indoor space.
Set at experimental art space The Shophouse 1527, the exhibition displays a variety of plants with the intent of “redressing the imbalance between nature and society that we are experiencing at the moment” because of threat of the coronavirus pandemic.
The exhibit also tries to emphasize that, while we need protection from the life-threatening virus, trees and nature also need form of protection—from humans themselves, whose ever expanding cities upset the balance of nature. In a sense, we are a virus that poses a threat to the well-being of the natural environment. The irony that’s pointed out is, while we are yearning to reconnect with nature after having been isolated in our homes for weeks, the pollution and the lack of trees outside will only allow such an experience within a closed space.
This is the exhibition's second run—the first was at 33 Space during Bangkok Design Week 2020 in February. Some new elements have been added such as red pebbles that act as a guiding path and two mirrors that “reflect the imbalance in the current global environment.”
Though it doesn’t bring us outdoors, walking among greenery still brings a sense of comfort and security. Needless to say, the abundance of so many lush plants also makes for great Instagram shots.
The Terrarium — Redressing the Im/balance runs until 21 June.
The Shophouse 1527, 1527 Rama 4 Road, 06 1994 9224. Open Tue-Sun 11:00-19:00
