ANDRZEJ KRAUZE
Scientists’ understanding of Kingdom Plantae still has some big gaps, such as exactly when our distant eukaryotic cousins evolved, whether their forebears originated on land or in water, and the shape of their phylogenetic tree. But about one thing there can be no doubt: plants do the damndest things.
A few cases in point: In 1999, the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) opened its doors. Much about the new complex was jaw-dropping, but none more so than the six flame maple trees set in the center of the approach to its entrance. The trees, about 10 feet tall, were growing upside down. The bio-sculpture installation, Tree Logic, was conceived and executed by Natalie Jeremijenko, an artist who is no stranger to science. Over ...
