Perrier-Jouët Explores Plant Intelligence & Biodiversity at Miami Art Week
- camilarosiaz
- Dec 3
- 2 min read
Maison Perrier-Jouët presented Plant Pulses, a new installation by artist and designer Marcin Rusak, at Faena Beach during Miami Art Week. The project examined how plants communicate and how this knowledge can shape future environmental practices. Developed from research conducted at AGH University in Kraków, the work translates ultrasonic signals emitted by stressed plants into sound and visual experiences accessible to visitors.
The installation stems from Perrier-Jouët’s ongoing inquiry into biodiversity and regenerative viticulture in Champagne. Rusak’s involvement began with fieldwork alongside the House’s scientific committee, where he studied the vineyard ecosystem and focused on three key species: the vine, European birthwort, and white clover. These plants became the foundation for a large sculptural herbarium encased in resin, incorporating botanical material collected in Champagne, including chalk soil and aging vines. The piece serves as a time capsule intended to preserve the identity of the landscape and prompt reflection on the mechanisms that sustain it.
Sound recordings derived from laboratory experiments—where vines emitted ultrasonic pulses during dehydration—anchor the installation. A sound designer rebuilt these signals into a minimalist composition with phases that mirror stages of plant stress and recovery. Visuals created with a digital artist evolve in tandem with the soundscape, shifting from geometric lines into organic forms. Visitors encounter the work through a circular arrangement of screens and sculptural seating embedded with plant specimens.
The project aligns with Perrier-Jouët’s exploration of how artists can contribute to scientific and ecological understanding. The House is evaluating ways to apply plant-pulse analysis within real vineyard conditions, potentially using the data to support water management and regenerative agriculture. Since 2021, Perrier-Jouët has transitioned portions of its vineyards to regenerative practices, with a goal of full adoption by 2030.
The ideas behind Plant Pulses extended into The Banquet of Nature, a dinner conceived by Rusak and held December 2 at Faena’s Mammoth Garden. Chef Pierre Gagnaire prepared a four-course menu paired with Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque cuvées, while the Dutch design duo Steinbeisser developed experimental tableware emphasizing nature-driven design and sustainable materials. The dinner also marks the release of A Banquet of Nature, Cooking Art and Ideas with Pierre Gagnaire, a book produced with JBE Books that brings together six contributors—including a philosopher, botanist, biologist, novelist, and musician—to discuss nature, culture, and culinary creation.
Programming included a talk at Design Miami on December 3 featuring Rusak and Axelle de Buffévent, examining biodiversity and design. Perrier-Jouët will also showcase two limited-edition bottles designed by Rusak at its champagne bar adjacent to the installation. These artworks reinterpret the Champagne herbarium through botanical drawings that link tasting notes to the three hero plants featured in Plant Pulses.
Throughout Miami Art Week, the House hosted additional champagne experiences at locations including 1 Hotel, Fontainebleau, and Kiki On The River.