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Arts, Cultural Heritage, Sciences, and Micro-/Bio-/Technology: Impact of Biomaterials and Biocolorants from Antiquity till Today

Summary

This research explores how natural biological materials and colors have been used in art throughout human history, from ancient cave paintings to modern biotechnology-based fashion. The study shows how humans have consistently relied on nature for artistic expression, and how modern science is finding new sustainable ways to produce these materials. Impacts on everyday life: • Provides more sustainable and natural alternatives to synthetic dyes in clothing and accessories • Offers new environmentally friendly materials for fashion and textile industries • Helps preserve and restore important cultural artifacts and artworks • Creates new possibilities for artistic expression through biotechnology • Demonstrates how traditional knowledge can inform modern sustainable practices

Background

Nature has historically provided humans with materials and colorants for artistic expression, from early cave paintings to modern biotechnology applications. The interaction between arts and biosciences began unknowingly in antiquity around 37,000 BC when early humans used natural materials to create cave art. Over time, these interactions became more sophisticated with the intentional use of biomaterials and biochemicals derived from animals, plants, and microorganisms.

Objective

To provide a comprehensive overview of natural products used in art creation throughout history, from ancient cave paintings to modern bacterial cellulose fashion, while examining the origins and applications of various biomaterials and colorants. The review aims to demonstrate how technological advances and sustainability concerns have led to new material discoveries and implementations while maintaining art’s relevance in human society.

Results

The review reveals extensive historical use of natural biomaterials and colorants in art, from ancient pigments to modern biotechnology applications. Key findings include the successful production of various biocolorants through microbial fermentation, the development of bacterial cellulose for fashion applications, and the emergence of new sustainable materials through biotechnology. The study documents numerous examples of both traditional and modern applications of biomaterials in art, demonstrating the continuous evolution of bio-based artistic materials.

Conclusion

The interaction between arts and biosciences, though often hidden, has been continuous throughout history from antiquity to present day. Modern biotechnology offers new sustainable approaches to producing traditional art materials while creating novel possibilities for artistic expression. The impact of art on human societies remains powerful, with biotechnology playing an increasingly important role in both art creation and conservation.
  • Published in:Journal of Industrial Microbiology & Biotechnology,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 10.1093/jimb/kuae049
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