Postdoctoral Research Associate, Dr Michaela Guo Ying Lo, has recently exhibited some of her research in Indonesia. Find out more about her exhibition, ‘Into the Foodscapes’ below.
‘Into the Foodscapes’ is an arts-based exhibition that brings to life the foodscapes of mangrove fishing communities along the Kapuas River, in West Kalimantan, Indonesia. It explores how small-scale fishers imagine their relationship with food and invites wider reflection on the diverse visions shaping our food systems. The exhibition was co-led by Michaela Guo Ying Lo, (postdoctoral researcher, DICE), Rumanti Wasturini (independent food systems researcher) and Citra Lestari (creative designer).
Between December 2024 and March 2025, the Foodscapes team co-designed two pop-up exhibitions: one in Kubu Raya, rooted in the local community they had previously worked with, and another in Bandung, engaging a broader (inter)national audience. In Kubu Raya, fishers shared personal stories with the wider community and local authorities and discussed how fishers could be better supported. In Bandung—a cosmopolitan hub—the exhibition attracted students, scientists, chefs, and artists to reflect on the stories and explore how arts-science collaborations can drive societal change.
Through personal photographs, stories, and everyday belongings, visitors were invited to step into the lived experiences of mangrove fishers. By exploring the places, practices, and meanings that shape daily food experiences, ‘Into the Foodscapes‘ created a space for collective learning and dialogue on diverse pathways towards more inclusive and sustainable food futures.
The Foodscapes team would like to thank Future Earth for their support.
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DICE would like to congratulate Michaela on her fantastic exhibition and research.