Bleach is an exhibition with new work by artist Matthijs De Block that examines the ecological fragility of coral reefs and traces how their genes responsible for their vibrant colors are being used in synthetic biology to recreate those colors in living organisms like bacteria Against the backdrop of environmental decline, a series of six artworks explores the intersection of art, biology, and technology, raising questions about the future of natural ecosystems in a world increasingly shaped by human intervention.
Through a synthesis of sculpture, genetic engineering, and biological art, the exhibition brings together elements such as coral genetics, cellular sculptures, organic sediment, glass, and genetically modified E. coli bacteria. These works show human-made chimeras, hybrid sculptures that live between object, living organism and altered genetics. Themes of transformation, loss, purity and control are center stage of the narrative.
At the heart of the exhibition are living E. coli cells, engineered to transcribe coral genes that code for colors and produce pigments reminiscent of vibrant marine ecosystems. This biological process is not only highly technical but also as a poignant reflection on the boundaries between the natural and artificial. By recreating coral pigments in a synthetic context, Bleach interrogates the loss of biodiversity and humanity’s evolving role as both the caretaker and creator of life. The exhibition invites viewers to reflect on the fragility of ecological systems and the ethical implications of synthetic creation. It challenges us to confront the shifting definitions of nature and to acknowledge the responsibility we hold in shaping the future of life on Earth.
The opening of the exhibition will take place on Thursday, June 5th from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM (registration is not required for the opening itself, but registration is mandatory for the talks due to limited capacity).
Opening program (June 5)
5:00 PM | Exhibition open & reception
6:30 PM | Welcome
Introduction by Frederik Ceulemans (Alderman for Climate, Urban Renewal, and Dutch-language Affairs, City of Brussels)
6:40 PM | Opening keynote: William Myers
Author of Biodesign and Bio Art, and Director of the Museum of 21st Century Design
7:00 PM | Presentation of Bleach
Artist Matthijs De Block will share the process behind Bleach
7:30 PM | Panel discussion
A conversation between artist Matthijs De Block and experts in bio-art, biotechnology and ethics, reflecting on how synthetic biology influences our view of living systems.
8:00 PM | Networking drink & official opening of the exhibition
9:00 PM I End of event
Practical information (5 June)
Public opening: Thursday, June 5, 2025, 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Location: Gluon Gallery – Slachthuisstraat 4-6, 1000 Brussels
Language: English
Free entry, but registration for the opening program is required due to limited capacity
Register via: https://forms.gle/HFY372WDi328bdwJA
Activities and activation moments after the opening
Following the opening programme on 5 June, the exhibition will continue to be activated through a series of additional events and encounters:
Guided tour with the artist
Sunday 8 June | ongoing from 2 PM to 6 PM
Matthijs De Block will be present in the exhibition and is happy to engage in conversation with visitors about his work and process.
Free entry, no registration required.
Press and partner visit to the artist’s lab
Monday 2 June
A behind-the-scenes look into the biolab where several works from BLEACH were developed. By invitation only.
Interested? Email fran@gluon.be
Press moment at the exhibition
Tuesday 3 June
Journalists are invited for a guided tour of the exhibition, with insights from Matthijs De Block.
Interested? Email fran@gluon.be
Keep an eye on this page. We’ll continue to add new activities and activation moments.
