Invisible to the naked eye, Diatoms are tiny single cell algae that encase themselves in jewel like silica shells.

Becoming aware of Diatoms exsistence and their role in the world was the catalyst of this project.  How there are these beautiful miniscule structures that are responsible for 20-50% of oxygen on planet earth yet most people have never heard of them.

The art of Diatom arranging began in the Victorian era, where multiple diatoms were arranged in complex patterns with micron level percision, then set within a microscopic slide.

At present there are only a handful of skilled practitioners producing these artistic arrangements and Klaus’s were some of the most complex being made in modern times - sort after by collectiors around the world.

The initial concept was to go to Somerset and film Klaus himself forming an arrangement. Sadly with his passing, we instead pivoted to create the arrangement coming together in CG. Honoring his legacy with this short film, beautifully brought to life by the immensely talented Flora McCloud.

To help pay homage to Klaus, we endeavoured to replicate details from his world. From his round wooden table to his slide storage boxes. 

This film is an intimate look into Klaus’s microscopic world, at a part of nature’s beauty few of us get to see.