The accumulation of billions of bioluminescent bacteria growing and glowing in approximately 1400 Petri dishes created enough light to be easily visible in a matter of seconds. However, increased viewing time led to a richer visual experience of these Bioglyphs. 

"A sacred space prepared with and containing the living. Very meditative and beautiful."

"It produces a 3-D effect that is visually appealing."

"Very interesting. The college should do more things like this."

"I can't wait to see what future collaborations develop between art and science. This project is a milestone in two of the most expressive and inherently connected fields. I wholeheartedly enjoyed it. Thank you."

"Good job—interesting way to make us think about life and image."

"Wonderful exhibit. My second visit."

"This is one of the most original ideas I've heard of in a long, long time. Excellent display."

"Beautiful. Reminds me of the Notre Dame stained glass windows."

"Thanks for the awesome study break."
 

Sometimes gallery attendants had to switch the lights on to prove to viewers that the paintings were not created with projected light.

Many viewers came to see the show more than once—not only to recapture the experience, but to see how the paintings had changed with time.

© 2002-2008  MSU–Bozeman Bioglyphs Project
a collaboration co-created by the Montana State University–Bozeman
School of Art, the Center for Biofilm Engineering, Manhattan College
and billions of bioluminescent bacteria