What is Biodata?
Biodata is an open-source hardware and software device, originally created by Sam Cusumano and continuously developed by MolinoLab, that translates the natural bioelectrical signals of living organisms (plants, fungi, animals) into real-time MIDI data. By placing electrodes on their bodies, the device detects subtle changes in electrical conductivity – triggered by factors such as light, water, or touch – and converts them into data.
Each plant generates its own unique melodies, creating living soundscapes that reflect its activity and vitality. Biodata does not harm plants in any way; it simply “listens” to the electrical processes already taking place within them.
Connectivity and musical versatility
Connect Biodata to your computer or mobile phone via Bluetooth or USB cable, and use any app or DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) to convert the MIDI data into music in real time. Thanks to its TRS MIDI output (mini-jack) , you can send MIDI information directly to an external synthesizer or a modular Eurorack system, integrating the plant’s bioelectrical expressions into any hardware setup.
Biodata is a fully open-source and customizable project, receiving updates from its developers. Over the years, MolinoLab has used Biodata in numerous performances and installations, exploring the creative possibilities of plant-generated music in live settings.
***
Workshop: Build Your Own Biodata
In this hands-on workshop, participants will have the opportunity to build their own Biodata from scratch. Throughout the session, we will learn the fundamentals of the device, assemble the components, and bring our own hardware to life.
What will we do during the workshop?
Device construction: We will assemble each component of Biodata, soldering and connecting the necessary parts to make the device fully functional. By the end, each participant will take home their own working Biodata.
Live testing: We will connect the sensors to different plants and also to fungi, comparing how each organism generates distinct signals and how they translate into musical data.
Exploring software: We will showcase different examples and tools to convert the received data into visuals and sound. We will experiment with various programs, from DAWs to visual programming environments, transforming bioelectrical information into interactive installations and collaborative performances.
The workshop is open to all profiles – no prior experience in electronics or programming is required, just curiosity and a willingness to experiment. At the end, we will have the chance to create joint installations or performances, exploring the collaborative potential of this fascinating bridge between nature and digital art.
***
Sinfonía Biótica – A Virtual Reality Experience
As part of its ongoing exploration, MolinoLab has developed Sinfonía Biótica, a virtual reality experience that integrates the electrical data from plants and fungi into real-time audiovisual composition. In this immersive experience, the bioelectrical signals of living organisms drive the generation of both sound and visuals, creating a synesthetic journey where nature becomes the composer.
Sinfonía Biótica will be available to experience during Open Saturday – don’t miss the chance to step into a world where plants and fungi shape the music and imagery around you!