Microbial Pigments (in Slovenian)

Join us for a course in the Green Lab, where we will explore the world of microbial pigments and discover how microorganisms can bring color to our everyday lives. Together, we will learn how bacteria, algae, and fungi produce stunning natural colors – pigment molecules that are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional dyes and plant-based pigments.

Today’s textile industry is one of the largest polluters, so we need new, sustainable approaches. Microbial pigments offer exactly that: stable, predictable, and environmentally friendly color production, independent of climate change or deforestation.

In this course, we will explore special bacteria: Streptomyces violaceoruber with a deep blue pigment and a forest-like scent, Volgesella indigofera, which produces an indigo blue with a shimmering glow, and Janthinobacterium lividum, which produces a violet violacein with antibacterial properties.

The course will run over three sessions:

Session 1: Growing Microbial Pigments
We will cultivate bacteria on different media and learn aseptic techniques, including the use of pipettes, autoclaves, and sterile tools. We will test how conditions affect the color and intensity of pigments.

Session 2: Observing and Extracting Pigments
We will observe the results of our cultures, check how colors change with pH, and learn basic filtration and centrifugation techniques. Some pigments will be dried into powder form, while silk scarves will be placed directly into bacterial cultures, allowing the microbes to grow and create unique patterns on the fabric.

Session 3: Printing with Microbial Pigments
The final session is dedicated to creation! We will explore two techniques:

• Block printing using wooden stamps with motifs inspired by traditional Slovenian cultural symbols.
• Direct “pattern growth”, where bacteria grow directly on the textile and create unpredictable, organic patterns.

At the end, participants will take home their creations: a 100% cotton tote bag and silk scarves dyed in two different ways. Participants may also bring their own textiles to dye.

This course combines experimentation, creativity, and collaboration, with all processes based on environmentally friendly materials and biological methods. Join us and discover how microbes can become our allies in sustainable color creation.

Course Dates:

3 sessions, 3 hours each

• Saturday, 16 May, 10:00 – 13:00
• Saturday, 23 May, 10:00 – 13:00
• Saturday, 30 May, 10:00 – 13:00

Prerequisites:

No prior knowledge is required.

Does this course count as training?

Yes – participation grants training for the laboratory workstation. After completing the course, you will be able to use this workstation independently during open lab hours.

About the Mentor:

Hana Cvelbar is a scientist and creator working at the intersection of biotechnology, bio-design, and architecture. She holds a Master’s degree from University College London and focuses on microbial pigments, experimental materials, and sustainable approaches, exploring how biological processes can be integrated into design and space. She has participated in numerous international projects in green economy, biotechnology, and 3D printing, receiving several prestigious awards, including the Isola Design Award, EU Green Deal Innovation Award, and British Council Grant.

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Participants should gather 15 minutes before the program in the main entrance hall of Center Rog. Please store personal belongings in the lockers, as shown by the mentor. Do not be late, as delays may disrupt the workshop process. Late arrivals may not be guaranteed entry into the lab.

The program is conducted in Slovenian, unless otherwise noted.

The program is intended for participants 14 years and older.

In case of cancellation, we will notify you two days before the planned start. If you cannot attend, fees are non-refundable, and sessions cannot be rescheduled. Participation may be transferred to another person if notified at least 24 hours in advance at zeleni@center-rog.si.

We look forward to your company and to creating together!

Photo: Tine Lisjak