mischer’traxler

At the Japanisches Palais in Dresden, insektenreich / utopian cloud offers a glimpse into an imagined, possible future — one where insects evolve in response to a changing planet. Developed for the 3rd Children’s Biennale Planet Utopia, this interactive installation bridges imagination, ecological awareness, and artistic expression.
The project was selected by the Biennale’s children’s advisory board, a group of 13 young participants aged 6 to 10. In a specially designed two-day workshop, the children were invited to imagine new species of insects adapted to extreme environments: rising temperatures, air pollution, water scarcity, and densely built urban landscapes.
Guided by mischer’traxler studio, the children explored how insects might develop new features to survive—wings built for wind, exoskeletons that filter toxins, antennae for sensing danger. From sketches to models, each of the idea was translated into a finely crafted creature by the studio. In total, 24 imaginative “super insects” emerged, each one a small ambassador of resilience and adaptation.
These fantastical creatures now take flight within the installation. Suspended in 210 mouth-blown glass bulbs, they respond as visitors move through the space—illuminating, fluttering, and creating a subtle soundscape. The delicate choreography of movement and light brings the insects to life, creating moments of wonder and reflection.
insektenreich builds upon the principles of curiosity cloud (2015), combining traditional craft with responsive technology. Here, the narrative expands—inviting not just observation, but co-authorship. The result is a sensory experience for all ages, celebrating nature’s inventiveness while asking thoughtful questions about our shared ecological future.