Artist
Kamila Chomicz is an artist and filmmaker from Gdańsk, Poland, whose unique background in biology and directing creates a fusion of science and art in her work. Educated at the University of Gdańsk and the Academy of Film and Television in Warsaw, Chomicz uses her expertise to explore ecological and social themes, particularly the preservation of biodiversity and sustainable practices. Her dedication to environmental awareness shines through in projects centered around wild bees and pollinators, emphasizing the delicate interdependence of humans and nature.
Chomicz has collaborated with various institutions like the Centre for Contemporary Art Łaźnia and the Baltic Sea Cultural Centre, participating in European cultural exchanges that broadened her artistic vision. Her notable project, The Voice of the Lagoon (2018–2020), was a collaboration with scientists and residents in Bacalar Lagoon, aiming to highlight ecosystem preservation through a documentary that gained international recognition.
Her Polish projects also demonstrate her commitment to local impact. City of Trees (2020–2021) combines radio episodes and films to advocate for urban tree conservation. We, Earthlings (2017) taught sustainability to elementary students, while From Seed to Seed (2022–2024) involved therapeutic gardening with Ukrainian refugee children. Through film, photography, and workshops, Chomicz fosters a deep, accessible connection to environmental and social causes, making her work both educational and inspirational.
SEESTADT – WILDLIFE?
This project explores the theme of biodiversity in urban environments, focusing specifically on Seestadt, Vienna—a district known for its commitment to sustainable development. Recognizing that biodiversity loss is rarely linked to urbanization and climate change, the project aims to shed light on how urban expansion impacts local wildlife and to propose practical solutions for fostering biodiversity.
The research delves into three primary questions: encouraging insect populations in urban spaces, understanding human-wildlife interactions, and protecting wildlife on the city’s outskirts. Through extensive observation, interviews with scientists and locals, and collaboration with ecologists, the project gathers insights into how Seestadt’s modern infrastructure affects its biodiversity. Observations of the local flora and fauna, such as insects, birds, and small mammals, provided a tangible foundation for exploring these questions.
As an artistic expression of the research, a film was created to illustrate the contrast between Seestadt’s green spaces and concrete areas, inviting viewers to reflect on urban design’s impact on biodiversity. The film, shared on social media, quickly gained attention and sparked discussions among residents about the need for biodiversity-friendly urban planning. Additionally, educational workshops and art installations were organized to engage the community, particularly children and families, emphasizing the interdependent relationship between humans and urban ecosystems.
This project not only highlights Seestadt’s sustainability efforts but also calls for greater integration of biodiversity considerations in urban development, inspiring further dialogue on the importance of wildlife conservation in modern cities.
