Meet the Russian scientists growing masterpieces from microbes

Scientists in Russia are unveiling the hidden beauty of the microscopic world with an art competition that turns laboratory petri dishes into miniature canvases.

Founded in 2016, “Beauty of the Microworld” challenges scientists and lab assistants to create their own living masterpieces, mixing microbes to create different colours and textures. Artists need to wait between two and five days for their work to finally blossom.

This year’s competition has already received more than 70 entries spanning the breadth of the country. Some artworks recreate the beauty of the natural world, while others take a more political theme, with portraits of US President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Chinese leader Xi Jinping all making their way to the judges’ table.

The overall winner will be announced in St Petersburg on 14 June.