# Living Materials We kicked off the seminar with a discussion on sustainability versus regenerative practices, exploring where bioplastics fit within these approaches. The session began with an introduction to various fabrication techniques and a showcase of biomaterial projects for inspiration. Following the presentation, we moved on to a hands-on session where we experimented with creating bioplastics. Using three different biopolymers and a range of recipes, we crafted materials with varying properties to better understand their potential applications.

Sodium Alginate

* 400 ml Water * 8 gr Sodium alginate * 60 gr Glycerol * small scoop Mica powder

Agar Agar

* Water 300 ml * Agar Agar 10 g * Glycerol 4 g rigid / 16 g normal / 32 g elastic

Gelatin

* Water 240 ml * Gelatin 48 g * Glycerol 0 g rigid / 24 g normal / 48 g elastic

### HANGAR and WetLab [Hangar](https://hangar.org/en/) is a creative production and research hub in Barcelona that supports artists by providing them with the resources, expertise, and spaces they need to pursue their artistic visions. One of the standout features of Hangar is the Ricson audiovisual room, which offers state-of-the-art equipment for audio-visual experimentation. During our visit, we were also introduced to the [WetLab](https://hangar.org/en/wetlab-blog/), a dedicated space for exploring living technologies and bio-art practices.

Artist [Ce Quimera](https://hangar.org/en/quimera-rosa/) shared their work, including "*transplanta"*, a project that delves into transhackfeminism through the use of living organisms and bio-technological integration. The WetLab is a space that encourages critical thinking about the intersections of biology, technology, and identity, fostering approaches that prioritize care, collaboration, and the exchange of knowledge between human and non-human entities.

### S-BIOTICA S-Biotica Studio, located in Barcelona, is a collaborative venture founded by [Lara Campos](https://lara-campos.com/) and [Jessica Dias](https://www.biobabes.co.uk/), both former IAAC students. The studio focuses on the convergence of biomaterials, science, and design, working with biological partners like mycelium, algae, and waste materials. Their mission is to make bio-design more accessible by developing open-source infrastructures, tools, and methods for material innovation. Through research into biomaterials, hands-on workshops, and cross-disciplinary collaborations, S-Biotica promotes sustainable, circular design practices that challenge conventional views of the material world.

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