How do we think about the vast, interconnected world around us? Argentine-born artist Tomás Saraceno invites us to contemplate the web-like nature of space, time, and matter through his multidisciplinary practice. His current exhibition, Ancestral Futures, at Haus der Kunst in Munich, employs interactive installations and collaborations with Indigenous communities to explore these concepts.

Saraceno’s use of spider webs as metaphors is not just a nod to nature; it’s a reminder of our interdependence. From sprawling installations that visitors can crawl through to projects inviting spiders to create their intricate structures, the artist blurs the lines between art, science, and everyday existence. His work Webs of At-tent(s)ion even involves museum-goers powering a cavern with their pedaling, reflecting on consumerism and sustainability.

Some of the most striking works come from Saraceno’s ongoing collaboration with the Indigenous communities of Red Atacama in northwestern Argentina. These pieces, including the loaned blankets and immersive galleries, delve into the environmental and social struggles of the region, particularly the resistance to lithium mining. The project The Sanctuary of Water symbolizes this struggle with a large reflective pond that mirrors the sky, emphasizing the unity of land and air.

For visitors in Munich, Ancestral Futures is on display until February 7. Elsewhere, more can be discovered online, providing a glimpse into Saraceno’s vision for a more interconnected and just future.