Promises and Limits of Biomimicry

What if your clothes were dyed by bacteria, or your home built from proteins? Join an inspiring conversation on how we can learn from nature to rethink materials in times of climate crisis and resource scarcity.

The event explores the intersection of artisanal traditions, modern biomimicry, and bio-based engineering. Together with historian Pamela H. Smith and designer Natsai Audrey Chieza, MoA Co-Director Peter Fratzl will discuss the promises and limits of learning from nature. Looking at both historical knowledge and emerging technologies, the panel traces how biomimicry has shifted from simply copying natural forms to deeply understanding living processes—from Renaissance lifecasting to cutting-edge materials science.

The event is organized by the Max Planck Institute for the History of Science (MPIWG) in collaboration with the Berlin-Brandenburg Academy of Sciences and Humanities (BBAW) as part of the Berlin Science Week. It takes place in English and in person on 5 November from 6 to 8 pm at the Berlin-Brandenburg Academy of Sciences and Humanities. Admission is free, but prior registration is required. You can find all further information and registration details on the official Berlin Science Week website.