The S+T+ARTS4Water II – Ports in Transformation project integrated art, science, and technology to address the environmental and social challenges associated with ports and aquatic ecosystems. The core objective was the search for sustainable and ethical solutions through advanced digital technologies and artist-led innovation.

The project fostered interdisciplinary collaboration between artists, researchers, industry, and local communities through artistic residencies, workshops, exhibitions, and public events. A special emphasis was placed on developing new approaches to water management and raising awareness of human impact on aquatic ecosystems.

Within the framework of the project, PiNA hosted two artistic residencies:

Sediment Lab (Hypercomf collective): This project explored the potential for reusing marine sediments—a byproduct of port maintenance. In collaboration with the Port of Koper and the Marine Biology Station Piran, the artists developed sustainable materials, such as tiles and natural pigments. Through workshops and artistic production, they addressed questions regarding resource use and the human footprint on the marine environment.

Beneath the Mirror Waves (Marko Vivoda, Luka Frelih, and Luka Murovec): This research-based project utilized oysters as "living sensors" of environmental change. Using technology to record their biological responses, the artists translated the data into visual and sonic art forms, revealing the hidden dynamics of the marine ecosystem.

The project contributed to developing new ways of understanding and managing water resources while strengthening the links between art, science, and sustainable development.

Project Duration: January 2024 – November 2025

Learn more: https://starts.eu/starts4water2/