Skunk Control is a group of engineers, educators and scientists from the college of Engineering and Science at Victoria University. The group’s aim is to communicate art through science and science through art via installations that prompt investigation and engage feelings of excitement that define the process of discovery.

Ephemera Undone is a sculptural installation in the dedicated Art space of the Library at Melbourne Girls Grammar school in South Yarra. It is a series of flower heads that open and close over an extended period of time to provide an altering colour spectrum (due to the diffraction of white light). The flowers are made of materials that have the ability on an atomic level to provide for structural colour via this diffraction process. The materials used are also birefringent and the colour associated with this effect is also visible through polarising windows that line internally one side of the glass installation box. Each flower has a further flower embedded with it which also provides additional polarization. A second but smaller series of plants which essentially remain stationary are evolutionary linked to the larger version and are themselves birefringent. They provide light that marks a seasonal change.

The artists and the piece was carefully selected as it aligned with the School’s Strategic Intent and its focus on the STEM/STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math) and it clearly demonstrates this focus and aligns with new and exciting curriculum opportunities.