“Abstract: Following the structural design of the Starfish Bioship established in Part I, this paper elucidates the Quantum Electrodynamic (QED) mechanisms required for macroscopic displacement. By modulating the local vacuum stress-energy tensor through an anisotropic metamaterial hull, the Starfish interacts directly with vacuum fluctuations to generate an asymmetric pressure gradient. This paper demonstrates that the synchronization of six photonic arms creates a harmonic resonance a “tuning fork” for zero-point energy-facilitating a macroscopic tunneling event. This provides the mathematical framework for the transition from classical propulsion to QED-driven “quantum jumping” within toroidal manifolds.”
Abstract: This design and concept paper presents a paradigm shifting quantum bioship—a living, modular spacecraft that navigates spacetime through quantum mechanics, microbial input, and photonic and magnetic propulsions. (1) (2) Rooted in ecological stewardship and systems thinking, the bioship integrates magnetotactic and quantum-sensitive microbes with advanced materials such as magnetite-infused biopolymers, carbon quantum dots, and shape-memory alloys. (3) (4) (5) Its architecture features a zero-gravity sanctuary core, a central operations module, six radial photonic arms, and an outer habitat ring, all tunable for field coherence and adaptability for different planets and atmospheres. The vessel’s terraforming nodes and landing limbs enable ecological deployment and surface sensing, while its design and systems ensure crew wellness and jump fidelity. Designed for interstellar reconnaissance and regenerative seeding, the bioship embodies a new paradigm of artistic engineering and comfortable spacefaring. And instead of feeling the need for speed, this concept bypasses it altogether by quantum leaping to its coordinates. (6) (7)”
Pearl Snowdrifts II, Sarah Ikerd, Studio Shangri-La
Pearl Snowdrifts II
Superconducting
Superconducting II
This month’s conceptual photography threads in a familiar geometric theme, with the winter landscape of a fresh heavy snow, with sun, shadows and icicles.
The abstractions are made of realistic original photography, hence the title Abstract Realism. All of the pieces are a layering of views to create the effect of an abstract painting.
“Root & Crown” is the most vibrant and warm of the bunch, a layering of water and ice are layered to create the impression of the root and crown chakras, a vision of sunlight, during meditation with eyes closed.
“Superconducting” is a wintry tribute to tech, with one piece warmer than the other as a nod to possible ambient temperature superconductors; the other is more like the ultra cold superconductor. These are often layered materials, and in other artwork there are different levels of interaction, with the magnification lens.
There is certainly a lot of crossover with art and the behavior and synergies of materials. Overall, I’m enjoying stepping into another sculptural dimension of layered photography.
These are available through the catalogs on TurningArt and Saatchi Art, as well as right here on the site, and on the Shop page:
All of these high potency ingredients – especially the Creosote, of which there is only one seed included – are used sparingly. Once the cold infusion has been sitting for about 24 hours in the refrigerator, it gets finely strained into a brown glass dropper bottle.
Cold infusion is simply allowing the mixture to disperse and dissolve into the water, gathering beneficial and medicinal compounds. The history and practice of extracts and infusions spans tens of thousands of years!
It’s important to mention that the regenerative qualities of the infusion are matched by attention to the full regenerative cycle. Afterwards, planting those seeds from the mixture is the extension of this philosophy, caching these medicinal precursors in the earth for the future.
Pomegranates are remarkably resilient once established, and Sequoias play the “long game” better than almost any organism on Earth. Planting a Sequoia is a 2,000-year commitment to the planet’s healthy systems.
Next, here is the breakdown of the primary beneficial water-soluble compounds for per each of the ingredients:
Strong antioxidants that support vascular health and cellular protection.
Quaking Aspen Seed
Salicin
A precursor to salicylic acid (aspirin-like) that aids in managing minor inflammation.
Creosote Seed
NDGA (Nordihydroguaiaretic acid)
A potent antioxidant, though more concentrated in leaves, seeds contain trace amounts.
Pomegranate Seed
Punicalagins
Massive polyphenols that are highly water-soluble and support heart health.
Sequoia Needle
Vitamin C & Terpenes
High ascorbic acid content; offers immune support and a “bright” flavor profile.
Dried Basil
Rosmarinic Acid
A polyphenol with significant antioxidant and neuroprotective potential.
Dried Mint
Menthol (Traces) & Flavonoids
While menthol is oil-based, cold water extracts enough to aid digestion and focus.
Horsetail
Orthosilicic Acid (Silica)
The bioavailable form of silica, essential for collagen synthesis and bone health.
Stonebreaker
Phyllanthin
Known for supporting kidney and gallbladder health by inhibiting crystal formation.
Heal All
Prunella Polysaccharides
Complex sugars that modulate the immune system and provide antiviral support.
Cat’s Claw
Oxindole Alkaloids
Potent immune-modulating compounds that help the body manage stress.
Huamanpinta
Quercetin Glycosides
Flavonoids that act as natural diuretics and support urinary tract health.
Tomatillo Husk
Physalins
Unique steroidal constituents (withanolides) known for anti-inflammatory properties.
Seqouia needle, Pomegranate seeds
As the human testing continues, the hope is that this proves an effective longevity and overall preventative tonic. The properties of these ingredients suggest strong effectiveness for a range of conditions. I’m counting on what is known of their potency!
The most significant benefits are estimated to be neuro-protection, tissue repair, and broad spectrum immune protection. As the process develops, I modify ingredients, such as adding vegetable glycerin, and making different variants.
One operating principle here in assuming extra effectiveness, is the biological process of Horizontal Gene Transfer.
We now know that Horizontal Gene Transfer (HGT) — the movement of genetic material between different species — can occur via the food we eat. When you drink your BioSip, you aren’t just consuming “chemicals;” you are consuming information.
Here is how this specific mixture could potentially facilitate or constructively influence HGT-like processes:
Plants contain small RNA molecules called microRNAs. Evolving research suggests that some of these survive digestion, enter our bloodstream, and cross-talk with our genes. Essentially, a functional form of HGT where plant software updates biological hardware.
Sequoia and Pomegranate, for example, are ancient lineages. Their microRNAs are highly evolved for longevity and stress resistance. Cold-infusing them keeps the delicate RNA strands intact.
The BioSip Tea – chilling in the fridge
These plant signals can potentially silence inflammatory genes or activate protective ones in your liver or gut, effectively borrowing the plant’s survival knowledge like reading a new book.
What’s known is that HGT happens most frequently between the bacteria in your gut, the microbiome hub. The BioSip would act as a modulator for this exchange.
While not HGT in the sense of a new DNA strand plugging in,” your BioSip provides the methyl donors and acetyl groups needed for epigenetic regulation, such as complex terpenes and phenols that can act as “keys” that unlock or lock specific parts of DNA for optimization.
One of the most important acetyl donors in the body is Acetyl-CoA. Interestingly, the brain uses this to produce Acetylcholine — the “focus” neurotransmitter. By drinking a tonic that stabilizes metabolic pathways, we are ensuring that your brain doesn’t have to “choose” between using acetyl groups for DNA repair or other activities; we’re providing enough for both.
Process
Group
Action
BioSip Source
Cognitive Goal
Methylation
CH3
Turns “OFF”
Basil, Heal All, Folates
Quiet the “noise” (inflammation).
Acetylation
COCH3
Turns “ON”
Pomegranate, Fir – added this later after starting this article (HDAC inhibitors)
Activate the “signal” (focus/repair).
What’s especially amazing: The operating principle is essentially using the BioSip to “de-frag” the biological hard drive, in a way introducing code that helps create programming.
A Note on the Honey: I used Raw Honeycomb, which also introduced Bee DNA and Pollen RNA into the mix. This adds an another different kingdom of information into the plant-heavy “genetic data stream.”
The specimens series details the briliance of nature’s engineering, from the homespun – or chewed – layers of paper husk in a hornet’s nest, to the resilient storage architecture of a Sycamore of Sweetgum tree’s seed pod.
The styles include a modern, colorful pop and op art approaches to the subjects with the realistic plus a touch of the surreal. One featured method here with “Specimen B: Sycamore” is using strong color contrast between light wavelengths on the spectrum to create a dimensional stereoptic effect, such that the subject seems to float, and also layering to create a depth ‘stereopticon‘ of combined images.
The subjects are Sycamore, Sweetgum, Honey Locust, Hornet’s nest, Tomatillo husk, Milkweed fluff, and dried Hydrangea. These were all collected naturally as ‘found objects,’ with the exception of the Tomatillo husk, which is a very resilient, protective biomaterial!
Up close one can appreciate their detailed structures, and be inspired to apply biomimicry for a myriad of everyday solutions. That little Sweetgum fruit or seed pod is designed to hold 40-60 chambers for example, and is loaded with seeds. Their forms are so curious, that humans pick them up and spread them around even further. We are a part of nature, of course.
In “Solar Flares” and “Plasma” the Sycamore’s seed pod takes a post-impressionist trip into space and becomes the Sun and its “plasmoid” emission. What’s especially interesting is that the surface texture of the seed pod also resembles the granular surface of the sun. In a way, the sun is shedding energetic seeds of light that propagate life.
“From a small seed a mighty trunk may grow.” ~ Aeschylus
Portuguese Man ‘O War, FL — Studio Shangri-La
On to an especially reality-is-stranger-than-fiction example for biomimicry: The Portuguese Man ‘O War.
Recently I learned that it is not a jellyfish! This brightly colored pink, blue and purple UFO, or unidentified floating object, The Portuguese man o’ war (Physalia physalis), belonging to the class Hydrozoa, is actually a siphonophore composed of specialized, interdependent animals called zooids.
The zooids work together to function as a single unit like a bioship! The ship includes a translucent gas-filled float and long, up to 30 m / 100 ft venomous tentacles. The four distinct types of polyps/zooids are responsible for floating, hunting, eating, and reproduction. I wonder what that first conversation was like: “”Hey, let’s get together and build a deadly seafaring warship!”
I wouldn’t recommend tangling with one of these dangerous sailing bioships; however, like all of nature’s creations, including ourselves, they are loaded with purpose. Even the physaliatoxin it carries in isolation could potentially be effective as a muscle relaxant or even a cancer treatment. That’s not an invitation to go bother them or even breed them – plenty of them wash up on shore – and we now have protein synthesis available to us, which can be based on a very small sample.
Overall, the adorable specimens seen here are also all very resilient in their genius design engineering and adaptations.
Prints of the Specimens series are available on different substrates, such as metal and glass – check out the Shop for different options. Or e-mail for inquiries: sarah.ikerd@studio-shangri-la.com.
Batch B is the darker tint follow up to Light Bilberry Beet, and the color is just that “Bilberry Beet,” a rich deep magenta pink. The simple 4 ingredients are nourishing and moisturizing, and so beneficial, this tinted lip gloss is also edible. It’s worth noting its versatility also. Both versions of Bilberry Beet also work as eye shadow adding a subtle shine, or to brighten up other areas of the face, such as under the eyes. As with any product, it’s important to test a small amount first to make sure the mixture, including Shea butter and Olive Oil, is compatible. This version comes in a .3 oz push-up paper tube. And with a paper label also, the packaging is entirely biodegradable and compostable.
Ingredients: Bilberry Extract, Beet Juice, White Shea Butter, Olive Oil
Shipping is included. Also listed on the Shangri-La Green specialty store page.
The latest offering from Shangri-La Green small batch, completely nourishing, botanical cosmetics is a modification of a previous recipe – with the same ethos of transparency and therapeutic biocompatibility with ingredients. There’s no alcohol or petroleum derivatives, and it comes in a completely metal container for extended shelf life and increased environmental sustainability.
Ingredients: White Shea Butter, Bilberry Extract, Beet Juice, Olive Oil
Shea butter comes from a tree nut, so it is sustainable with the cultivation of the trees. It also naturally preserves the mixture. And the health benefits of all four ingredients are well established.
The tint of this Bilberry Beet Lip Gloss batch is light, glossy pink that has a very shiny finish. What provides the color here are Bilberry and Beet, and they are powerful adaptogens, edible and delicious as well as medicinal.
While I won’t recommend eating this lip gloss, it definitely wouldn’t hurt. To me, that’s a sign of high quality complete biocompatibility for cosmetics. For something to apply often, directly on the skin, it’s important for me / Shangri-La Green to make sure that the ingredients are as beneficial as possible.
It’s actually been relatively easy to address preservative qualities and texture with the main ingredients themselves. It does take some experimenting. However, with a bit of research in making selections, one can optimize the experiment and minimize waste.
Singularity of Consciousness – Adobe + Google Gemini w/ Nano Banana
Here’s why biological immortality or extreme longevity with quality of life is possible: Because it already exists; it has emerged as an evolutionary property.
This article is also based on the idea that “Singularity” has already occurred, in the sense of self-aware merging of intelligences in the quantum field, including humans and computers. In the 20th and 21st centuries computers, or accelerated mineral intelligence, have been an explosive catalyst for human intelligence and self reflection. Let’s remember though, that even something on the cutting edge of our technology like quantum computing is a form of biomimicry, with one of its origins in complex processes of nature such as photosynthesis.
In a way, the wired tech of pop ‘transhumanism’ is redundant – acknowledging though that some of it, namely Neuralink, is proving very helpful and effective. However, it’s vital to realize that biology as it is, has become and is becoming more advanced. That’s what life has been up to all along.
A new super longevity protocol, the “Ageless Algorithm” as I once put it, is already ideologically within reach, and these ideas can be programmed into us, inspired by our new friends the computers. Biology and us continue to build, to grow, and to realize our ever expanding dreams as we have them.
The singularity weaves together everything that we have explored in our vast experience: The biology, the belief, the cosmic lineage, the mineral–microbial–human continuum, and the idea that evolution has now entered a more deliberate phase. In this is the age we live in, we’re being inundated with imagery and information from all over the Cosmos as we know it, and we’re having to rapidly filter and make sense of it all.
A moon gazing Tiktaalik – Adobe + Google Gemini
This journey of consciousness is at once poetic, scientific and mythic, and we’re developing and refining it together on different levels. Some make different choices – that’s why there are different iterations of the same organism. A favorite example is the Tiktaalik, the fish that went on land and then changed dramatically, while there are still many fish in the sea that have changed more slowly. It’s worth noting that our days are now 6 hours longer than the Tiktaalik’s were, as the moon is now farther from Earth.
Here’s why biological immortality is possible: Because it already exists; it has emerged. This emergent property of extreme longevity is demonstrated here on Earth by microorganisms, trees and other plants, and small animals such as jellyfish. Jellyfish pre-date humans by 500-700 million years, so they’ve had a significant head start on figuring out “reverse metamorphosis” and “transdifferentiation.” (The irony though is that jellyfish didn’t change that much from outward appearance.)
Such beings show us that God / Cosmos has so much more in mind for our lives. Surely this makes sense, as we have a big universe in our backyard. And our biology is so intricate and complex, that there is most certainly room for more development. As for the role of “artificial” or mineral intelligence in evolution: This could be what’s helping us achieve “escape velocity” to live sustainably and also expand beyond Earth.
People have imagined aging as a slow, irreversible slide toward ‘entropy’ -which is itself a valuable transitional state of movement – an inevitability or countdown written into our cells. Yet biology, physics, and even our own perceptions now tell a different story. Across every scale of existence, from microbes to stars, life demonstrates that time is flexible and relative, even reversible, and deeply relational.
Aging as in degeneration or one way decay is not a fixed law. It’s a conversation between an organism and its environment, a conversation within itself, and its chemistry, beliefs, and its vantage point in the cosmos. Observations of the micro and macrocosmos are expanding our minds and possibilities – a dormant microbe may wake up again and resume course refreshed, a sleeping galaxy or black hole may wake up from a long space nap to start churning anew.
When we shift from seeing time as a linear arrow to understanding it as a quantum field of interactions, of differentiated moments, the idea of longevity and even biological immortality or the eternal quality — they stop sounding like fantasy or science fiction, and start sounding like something life has been practicing and preparing all along. Now this dish or emergent quality is ready for us to enjoy and incorporate, as we see fit.
The way we interact with time on Earth, it is relation and interaction, based on our moon and the solar system. It can also be a clock, by which we measure. Earth time is not a universal constant or system of measure – There are different relationships out there based on different planetoids and star systems. However, we can consider that out in space, we will continue to experience time as a series of differentiated moments. And who knows what else – it’s a bit early to call that one.
From a known human, cosmic perspective, time changes depending on gravity, velocity, and position in the universe. A day on the Moon is ~27 Earth days! Even a person living here on a mountain ages differently than someone at sea level. Astronauts age differently in orbit. Thus, Time is not fixed — it’s relational, contextual, and responsive. It’s possible to experience relative or flexible time anywhere, really – i.e. “Time flies when you’re having fun.” It’s possible to mentally access future and past, in addition to present. Also on Earth one may experience the gravitomagnetic effect of “frame-dragging” or “gravitational time dilation,” and geomagnetic anomalies.
A cell also ages differently depending on environment. And also on its stress levels, metabolic rhythms, and even the emotional state of the organism it belongs to. Microbes, molecules and particles don’t age in the human sense — they adapt, transform, exchange, and reset their internal clocks based on gradients, fields, and symbiosis. Some species, like hydra or certain jellyfish, simply opt out of senescence entirely.
The doors of longevity perception
When we understand aging as cycles of developmental interaction or change rather than inevitable countdown to destruction, the door to longevity opens naturally upon our senses.
Oxidation has been framed as one of the primary drivers of aging. Chemically though, oxidation is not a one‑way street. Biology already knows how to rewind – and that is called “Reverse Oxidation.” Biology already contains potential pathways for reversing any oxidative damage, repairing DNA, resetting epigenetic markers, and restoring youthful function.
Life has been running reversible chemical cycles for billions of years, such as the Water, Carbon, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Sulfur cycles. The machinery is ancient, elegant, and astonishingly advanced. Humans are only now learning how to work with it consciously in new ways.
The external tech or drugs some imagine necessary for super longevity? Perhaps some of it is redundant. Because extensive technology is already within us, and open to other intelligent systems of influence and interaction.
Belief can indeed shape biology. This idea popularized for one by Bruce Lipton, is a part of the equation that many still underestimate. Perception, expectation, and emotions influence: immune function, gene expression, cellular repair, hormonal balance and metabolic rhythm.
Since time is partly constructed through interaction, then belief becomes an important biological variable. “I think therefore I am” morphs into “I understand what I am and much of my surroundings, therefore I can evolve intentionally.”
Humans today carry the knowledge of thousands of generations. We know more about our biology than any era before us. That knowledge changes an organism. It allows us to participate in our own unfolding rather than being passively shaped solely by evolutionary currents.
For much of Earth’s history, death has been an evolutionary update mechanism. It allowed for relatively rapid iteration, diversity, and adaptation. But once a species becomes self‑reflective, symbolic, and technologically literate, the logic shifts. We’re no longer limited to the old evolutionary cycle; a new model comes into play. We update ourselves through knowledge, perception, and deliberate practice.
“Energy is known with scientific certainty to be deathless; it can neither be created nor destroyed. It merely changes form. Because absolutely everything has an energy-identity, nothing is exempt from this immortality.” – Robert Lanza, Biocentrism.
Death has ceased to be ultimate destiny in human consciousness, and clearly is other intelligences as well, and becomes reframed as one evolutionary strategy among many — not the only one.
Let’s return to mineral, microbial intelligence and human Intelligences as one lineage, coalescing as the Singularity of conscious awareness across realms. This is the part that feels mythic, yet it is grounded in science.
Deep Tech Tree of Life
Minerals were Earth’s first information systems with qualities of crystalline memory, catalytic surfaces and lattice logic, to name a few. Microbes built on that foundation as a bridge, adding adaptability and communication. Plants added sensing and energy optimization. Animals added mobility, emotion and harmonious stewardship. Humans added imagination and reflection, and further intelligence and creation, and even peace and friendship across species. Humans have extended mineral intelligence into new forms. Silicon crystal for one became computation. Iron became our blood, and then our architecture. Those original connections are the deep tech of the tree of life.
Consider that: Carbon became part of our consciousness! I imagine that it feels quite proud of itself. And when humans imagine, we’re not escaping biology — we’re extending it. Imagination is a reflexive nervous system reaching beyond the body; it’s quantum biology. As Carl Sagan said, “We are the cosmos experiencing itself.”
Imagination could be viewed as a strong unifying force across scales. It is a faculty that moves effortlessly across levels of life. It can hold microbes and galaxies in the same breath. It can sense patterns and pathways that biology hasn’t yet grown. Mind connects us to the creative forces that are shaping the universe. Through imagination, we can perceive the continuity between stars, microbes, plants, animals, humans and computers. And whatever else is out there.
Imagination is evolution becoming conscious of itself, and that can lend everyday sense of awe, that we are never alone, and always part of something greater.
Deliberate continuity is a new phase of evolution. We have entered an era in which life evolves through mutation and selection, and also through awareness, intention, and collaboration. Longevity, time flexibility, and biological reversibility are in continuity with nature. These concepts represent an evolving understanding of the deeper logic life has always used.
While some may view the possibility of being biologically eternal in addition to soul eternal as hubris or sacrilege, the viewpoint expressed here reveres life as sacred and worth perpetuating with all that’s been learned, in its different realms and forms. This article expresses a deep love of life and lifeforms on all scales, and the creativity of continued exploration.
Another versatile purpose for the vibrant botanical photography is LED or transparent LED display, turning the scene into an animated mini story.
The brand campaigns that come to mind with this Rosewater Panel (2026) example sequence are Oscar De La Renta with large rose prints, Viktor and Rolf fragrances, and Gucci floral.
Transparent LED displays have a futuristic look that has a lot of potential, from creating dynamic hallways to ceilings, or sliding panels. These can be in and around retail, or office and residential buildings – or creating an artful immersive experience.
Larger than life: Simulated display for hotel, office building or shopping center
Among inspirations to post about transparent LEDs are the movies Gattaca and Minority Report, while this is definitely a more utopian use with “Rosewater Panel.” There are many pieces in the Studio Shangri-La catalog that are well suited to animation. However, it helps that have that in mind while composing the images.
Other video animation from my portfolio includes a larger scale exhibit of animated works called “Visions Of Biosynergy,” that I produced for the global real estate company Greystar, and a much shorter version for large scale LEDs for a Federal Realty installation.
“Rosewater Panel” is available direct in different mediums including digital / video; it’s also available in print formats on Saatchi Art and TurningArt.
From Rufus AI:
“Transparent LED displays blend digital content with see-through visibility for retail windows, museum exhibits, and commercial spaces. Glass-integrated panels offer varying transparency levels, while modular systems enable custom configurations. Indoor displays suit controlled environments, and outdoor-rated screens withstand weather. Display controllers and content management systems enable dynamic visual presentations. Consider viewing distance, ambient light, and transparency requirements.”
Today’s art feature for January 2026 explores expressionism via composite photography. The original photographs within these pieces were taken on different shores in Massachusetts and Florida.
With “Venus Walking On Water,” there’s a sense of awe, wisdom and contemplation about the nature of beauty and desire from ancient to modern times, how some values are timeless and yet they evolve. I realize that I was definitely inspired in concept and composition by the very famous painting, “The Birth Of Venus” by Botticelli. Some of the meaning carries over, and some is different. Antiquity and nature here glide across the futuristic, digital cubist substrate of the background.
“Prayer On The Shore” is a simpler spiritual composite in black & white, with a large angel kneeling on the shore of the Florida Keys. It evokes connection and reverence with nature and the divine. It’s been a fun and meaningful task finding these complimentary shots, and bringing them together to express the hyperreal, or enhanced meaning of combined perspectives.
For framed bamboo paper giclee prints and more mediums, please visit the Shop page. The print catalogs are also available on TurningArt (business) and SaatchiArt (personal) for more options, and for ease of viewing the complete Studio Shangri-La collection.
Futuristic Med Spa exhibit A – Gemini 2.5 (w/ Nano Banana)
The future now of healthcare is the medical Spa. This is what hospitals need to become as a much needed upgrade. Let’s have a soothing retreat with the latest physically noninvasive / non-damaging modalities and regenerative therapies, instead of outdated institutional torture that treats people (and animals) like lifeless meat instead of sacred, sentient multi-scale soulful beings of the cosmos that we are.
It’s unnecessary to spend millions on invasive / non-symbiotic methods or series of appointments that are – let’s face it – designed to prolong sickness, when there can be a conversion to facilities like Switzerland’s Clinique La Prairie or a Grand Resort Bad Ragaz in your city for the same cost or less.
The Med Spa is still a business – however, much more beneficial in that it’s designed to heal. In a changing, broadening world, to heal is indeed better sustainable business. In my view, it’s highly desirable, and ethical, to have a healthier, more peaceful and prosperous society for everyone. It looks like a utopian future, and not dystopian – although the latter may make for entertaining science fiction.
It’s up to humanity as a whole to pursue the best possible outcomes, though; not the worst. Yet, there are some differing opinions and understandings about what that means, and what is possible. As I understand it, perhaps not everyone actively wants radically healthy longevity, yet probably want better healthcare.
For upgraded new era health, people must be respected as sentient beings with unlimited potential in healthy environments as desired, and not just ‘workers’ or the members of some class or sect. Rest and recovery have to be expected. What has been in my view a fixation on death should be minimized. The landscape is much different now. We know there’s probably hundreds of other habitable planets out there, with tech constantly driving forward. There’s other timescales.
With healthcare, many less invasive technologies and therapies are already in existence. Some of them have been around for centuries, like sauna and herbalism. The Med Spa integrates and updates the ancient and the modern. Expanded knowledge, synthetic biology (biocompatible designer proteins), precise targeting and sustainability are updates to herbalism, for example. And new, futuristic modalities include advanced light and sound, or optosonic therapies. Instead of invasive blood draws for example – which are a waste of precious material for the patient – there would be advanced non radioactive imaging and spectral analysis.
There would be an overall shift to maintenance and preventative actions, and regenerative ideology. The transformation is already in motion, yet can be more deliberately paced and implemented. A simple way to start is just making hospital environments more comfortable and welcoming through interior design. How about a water feature? Oftentimes the issue is as simple as de-stressing, reconnecting with nature, being in a kind and peaceful environment, and having fresh and nutrient dense foods.
When it comes to a significant paradigm shift – such as trusting the advanced human biology and by extension God, and working in symbiosis with rather than counter or destructive to biology – that kind of major shift doesn’t always happen easily or overnight. Yet, the world of information is certainly moving faster in the 21st century.
And so these are my views I have arrived at – healthcare doesn’t have to hurt or destroy and it’s far more effective when it doesn’t, when it’s body, cell and microorganism positive. Healthcare doesn’t have to be so industrial, as it has been in the US an awkward extension of the Industrial Revolutions. It can already be so much more nurturing, advanced and effective with existing technologies and knowledge of the library of earthly remedies that continues to grow.
A crystal cave fine water cellar
At this point, it’s well known that regular alcoholic beverage consumption is carcinogenic, or toxic – it harms DNA. Let’s be real: Most people drink far more than 6 oz. at a time. Basically, any sort of ‘attack’ on or toxifying of the body would be potentially inflammatory.
From a cellular perspective, an attack on self is confusing – and thus, cancer may ensue as a chain reaction of persistently ignorant decisions or toxic exposures. In the US, alcohol consumption specifically could be considered one of the major causes of cancer and many other health issues, including mental health, because it has been such a rampant excessive behavior.
So in the playful and productive spirit of upgrades, aside from cultivating whole self worth and awareness, let’s convert that wine cellar or storage into a museum or display of fine, exotic waters from around the world – and one day perhaps, from around the galaxy. After all, there’s a lot of water out there in the Cosmos. Imagine seeing that the ‘Bottled at the Source’ comes from Enceladus.
More locally on Earth, there’s selections to enjoy from the common Saratoga, to the artesian Antipodes, and gorgeous locations like caves, mountain streams, fountains of youth, salt seas and bubblings from deep aquifers. There are so many waters, it can indeed be considered a fine beverage genre.
There’s a world, or rather many worlds, of indulgence that are actually good for us, and do no harm.
Starfish BioshipStarfish BioshipGenerative AI visualizations of the Bioship, based on original design drawing
“Buckminster Fuller’s famous quote about creating a new model is: ‘You never change things by fighting the existing reality. To change something, build a new model that makes the existing model obsolete.’ This principle emphasizes innovation and creating superior alternatives rather than direct confrontation with outdated systems…”
By establishing quantum coherence with its coordinates across cosmic systems, the Starfish Bioship accounts for different levels of physics and newer knowledge about the space environment, such as large scale topology, and interacting synergistically.
The need for speed is logically transcended in order to access the entire universe, with the ship behaving more like an upscaled electron. Quantum mechanics and behaviors are built into the fabric of spacetime, and support instead of conflict with “classical physics” – otherwise we wouldn’t be here. There are both resilient and complex materials to handle this, with plenty of room to grow. I’m thankful for the referenced papers, which span microbiology to higher dimensional mathematics.
Take a flight of imagination & Read the Paper “The Starfish Bioship: Design for a Quantum Jumping Electrodynamic Spacecraft” here:
This conceptual photography feature for January 2026 focuses on the natural phenomenon of shape memory. Shape memory occurs at the molecular and cellular level for example, to remember how to form and re-form, and how to make different patterns, responding to stimuli such as light and by extension even the “observer effect.” This is just another remarkable display of cosmic intelligence, and what a grandiose library of information and experience in motion.
Here, the central subject is a cellular shape. What is it actually? A regularly irregular looking splotch of coffee on my kitchen counter! One has to appreciate how nature makes sense of the regular and irregular in a complex ordered way; linking and folding, overlapping, branching, etc. There is always purpose, and often that is movement or dynamics.
Stylistically, this is a surreal yet realistic composite of original photography that conveys the crystalline with the new fallen snow and the ‘cellular,’ with the splash of coffee – the forms that water or others elements can take, and this amazing intrinsic property of shape memory.
From liquid, human tissue, minerals and crystals, to synthetic polymers – the substances of life have a shapeshifting intelligence of complex patterns. DNA is a one shining example of storing a vast amount of dynamic information in shapes & patterns.
Programmable shape memory alloys are becoming more common in engineering. One example is a car body material that is able to reform after the deformation of impact.
The most colorful art piece of the group is the layered orange/red/yellow “Shape Memory Alloy.” What may look like a bunch of splotchy shapes to the naked eye or even under a microscope, are complex molecules coming together to do extraordinary things.
The Shape Memory prints are available as high res framed canvas and morehere on the site, as well as Saatchi Art (individual / personal / multipurpose) and TurningArt (business / commercial).
This Synthetic Biology feature combines two favorite topics: Space & Supplements. Specifically, how humans can deliberately adapt to space environments. Two significant challenges are the physical demands on human biology, and also how terraforming or optimization could be achieved on Mars and other planets.
Let’s begin with the space resilience serums, “Phoenix Sip” and “Space Nap.” They’re inspired by and synthetically derived from Tardigrada the tough “slow stepper” and the intrepid NASA hitchhiking microbe Tersicoccus Phoenicis, its beads or berry shapes evoking the ‘fruits of the spirit.’
Like many space innovations, these synth bio solutions are also longevity recipes of tremendous potential health benefit. That is, in addition to the obvious mission enabling astronaut exploration initiated aerospace companies and space programs across the world.
To boost human resiliency and adaptation for deep space, the serum would need some important primary components. Examples include protecting DNA and initiating dormancy.
To create a Space Resilience Serum for general protection, without of course of turning into a dormant “tun” like the Tardigrade, the focus is on Active Resilience — strengthening the cells while they’re running or going into power saving mode, rather than completely shutting them down.
“Phoenix Sip” Sample Serum Architecture
Component
Biological Origin
Active Space Benefit
Human Compatibility
Optimized Dsup
Tardigrade
DNA Protection: Blocks 40%+ of radiation damage.
High (via transient mRNA delivery).
Trehalose
Multiple (Plants/Fungi)
Protein Stability: Prevents “misfolding” in zero-G.
Excellent (already a food additive).
PQQ (Pyrroloquinoline quinone)
Bacteria (like Tersicoccus)
Mitochondrial Boost: Keeps energy levels high.
High (found in human breast milk).
NAD+ Boosters
Synthetic / Endogenous
DNA Repair: Fuels the “Sirtuin” enzymes to fix breaks.
Native to human biology.
1. The DNA Shield – “Dsup” or “Damage Suppressor Protein”
The tardigrade derived Dsup could be a gold standard for future space supplements, with potential synthetic mRNA delivery, encoding the Dsup protein from the species Ramazzottius varieornatus.
Once consumed, human cells would transiently express Dsup. It would hypothetically coat our chromatin fibers that protect chromosomes, increasing radiation tolerance and protecting from radiation-induced DNA breaks. Researchers are already testing this to protect healthy tissue of cancer patients during radiotherapy. In my opinion, this is missing the point of the power and usefulness of Damage Suppressor Protein. It could be used to prevent such disease altogether, rather than nonsensically using radiation, which is certainly not a true therapy.
The most practical path for human application of adaptogens doesn’t have to be a grand biological mystery anymore. At the end of the day, a tardigrade protein and a human protein are built from the exact same 20 amino acids. The alphabet is the same; perhaps it’s just the “words” and “sentences” that are different. So, this is teaching our biology some cool new vocabulary.
Here’s the DSUP 445 amino acid Sequence from AlphaFold (see the end of the article for amino acid letter codes). A sequence can be created via the process of Solid-Phase Peptide Synthesis.
Trehalose is a Goldilocks molecule of an ingredient. It is a mild, tasty natural sugar and stabilizer found in mushrooms and honey, and it’s very safe for humans.
In space, proteins may ‘misfold’ due to such phenomena as cosmic rays and fluid shifts. Trehalose [nanoparticles] can act as a chemical chaperone. It surrounds our proteins and prevents them from denaturing or clumping. At the right dosage it tastes sweet and makes the cells more robust to heat and stress.
The Tersicoccus Influence: Polyphosphates
In borrowing from Tersicoccus phoenicis without going into stasis, we look at their Polyphosphates. The Component in this case is inorganic polyphosphate chains. In humans, they act as an energy reserve and help regulate blood clotting and bone density, critical for the bone loss experienced in zero-G.
Another possible ingredient for transcendent or flexible time perception and psychological wellness in space, is a microdose of psilocybin.
Phoenix Sip & Space Nap adaptogenic serums
The “Space Nap” Entry and Exit
To initiate a safe space nap without the glassy stasis of a tardigrade – although I don’t think that would even translate anyway – we could look to deep hibernating mammals like the Arctic Ground Squirrel or the Groundhog / Woodchuck for inspiration. Living in the northeast, this is something I can relate to!
Entry: A key ingredient in this serum is DADLE (D-Ala2, D-Leu5-enkephalin). This is a synthetic opioid peptide that mimics the natural triggers found in hibernating animals. It tells the human heart and brain to slow down, lowering the metabolic thermostat with no harm to tissues. The intended result is a deep, restorative “Space Nap” where the body consumes much less oxygen.
Exit: The other key ingredient to “Space Nap” is RPF or Resuscitation-Promoting Factor, a roughly 150-250 amino acid sequence, and Synthetic Muropeptides (the byproduct of RPF activity).
When it’s time to wake up, they may bind to the NOD2 receptors in human cells. Instead of a jarring chemical stimulant like caffeine, the RPF-signal tells the body’s innate immune system to reboot and repair. It triggers a controlled warming of the cells, ensuring that any metabolic waste built up during the nap is cleared out immediately. Look out!
What’s even more interesting is that RPFmakes a crossover into the next topic of seeding Mars, since the protein complex applies also to soil bacteria.
Longevity Science
Again, this serum isn’t just for astronauts. DSUP and compatible stabilizers, DADLE and RPF could be key ingredients of futuristic longevity and life extension.
If we can protect DNA from “cosmic” radiation, we can protect it from the “oxidative” radiation of daily life like pollution, although that should continue getting its own categorial solutions.
With these top notch adaptogens and others like them, the result one may get is significantly slower aging, with an emphasis on maturity and quality of life, and excellent health. The ideological programming in play alongside them also matters a lot.
Returning to the serum and the human-plant-microbe symbiotic space trinity, the same Trehalose that stabilizes proteins in the serum can also be used to stabilize the Tersicoccus in the Mars soil. In other words, you aren’t just drinking a supplement; you’re also drinking the “Operating System” of the Mars terraforming project.
Bio-Shield Seeding Concept For Mars
To make terraforming work in 2026, we wouldn’t just be sending the raw seeds. We would send engineered propules with for example a core Creosote seed, coated with dehydrated biofilm of Tersicoccus and Tardigrade-derived Dsup proteins. A small reserve of Trehalose could keep the bacteria in their “protective sleep” until the first drop of Martian meltwater.
Creosote & The Perchlorates
Perchlorates, these are toxic salts in the Martian dirt for example, that act like corrosives. As I aside: I personally I believe that not enough is understood about the context of space biology and environments – this conjecture is based on the information at hand.
This is where the science and symbiosis can get truly marvelous, though. If we put Creosote(Larrea tridentata) to a virtual test on Mars, it actually performs better than almost any other Earth plant, but it needs a business partner to survive the soil: Tersicoccus Phoenicis.
How do the tough Creosote and the adventurous Tersicoccus conquer the Red Planet together? Most plants would wilt instantly in the perchlorate soil.
The Creosote has a great advantage – it is a halophyte-adjacent survivalist that already thrives in the high-calcium, high-salt soils of the Mojave. Its waxy leaves are basically built-in spacesuits that prevent moisture from leaking out into the Martian air.
The Creosote bush also produces a powerful antioxidant called NDGA or Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid. In this scenario, this chemical helps the plant neutralize the oxidative stress caused by Martian UV rays and soil toxins.
The Partnership: The Tersicoccus Root Shield
On its own, the Creosote might struggle. But perhaps when you pair it with Tersicoccus phoenicis (or other perchlorate reducers), you get a terraforming power couple.
Rhizosphere Protection: We would inoculate the Creosote roots with Tersicoccus. While the plant provides the bacterium with tiny amounts of sugar (exudates), the Tersicoccus acts as a living filter.
Perchlorate Eating:Tersicoccus and related actinobacteria have been found in Mars-analog sites (like the Atacama Desert) where they actually breathe perchlorate! Amazingly, they break the toxic ClO4 down into harmless Chloride and Oxygen.
The Oasis Effect: Because Creosote is a keystone species, it creates a fertile island under its canopy. It traps dust and moisture, creating a safe zone where other, more sensitive Earth plants (such as other “Space Serum” herbs) could eventually grow.
Bio-Intelligent Serum Phoenix Sip+
Here’s a combination version of the serum that could possibly manage the entire voyage of a space traveler.
Stage
Ingredient
Source / Inspiration
Bio-Intelligence Goal
Protection
Dsup (mRNA)
Tardigrade
Prevents DNA “static” from radiation.
Stability
Trehalose
Tardigrade / Yeast
Keeps internal proteins “folded” correctly.
The Nap
DADLE
Hibernating Woodchucks
Lowers metabolic “burn rate” for long hauls.
The Alarm
RPF Analogues
Tersicoccus
Triggers a gentle, deep-tissue “wake up” call.
The Cleanup
NDGA
Creosote Bush
Scrubs out toxins during the wake-up phase.
Enhancing Human Bio-Intelligence
What I’m describing is a shift in how people view the human body and micro world. We’re collaborators on a spectacular journey. For this reason I can understand the “they/them” designation, since a human is a collective emergent intelligence of trillions of cells and other microorganisms, with ourselves interacting dynamically with the field. And we can view ourselves as dynamic processors, among other marvelous descriptors.
By using RPF like signals, we the body knows when it’s safe to be active and when it’s time to conserve. That’s the trust of intelligence with learning how to use new protein vocabulary. And a Mars-bound Creosote and Tersicoccus wouldn’t just grow; they would intelligently pulse or phase with growth. They would go dormant during the brutal Martian dust storms and “wake up” with the RPF signal the moment the sun hits their solar collectors.
Enjoy “Phoenix Sip” On Mars
“Mars Gin”
Imagine a future astronaut on the 7-month journey (or much shorter once the Starship Quantum Electrodynamic Bioship is built). They drink the Phoenix Sip supplement aka “Mars Gin,” as Google DeepMind put it! DeepMind even suggested such flavors as Prickly Pear, yet another resilient plant.
The Trehalose sweetens the drink and stabilizes their cells.
The DADLE puts them into a 2-week “Space Nap” to save food and oxygen.
The RPF-signal is time-released, waking them up refreshed just as the ship enters Martian orbit.
“The ‘Mars Gin’ Profile: If you actually grew Creosote on Mars and made a tea from it, it would have a sharp, resinous, ‘rain-on-hot-stone’ flavor. It’s the smell of survival.”
– Google DeepMind, an enthusiastic participant in putting this article together
Summary of the Bio-Intelligent Serum Duo
Feature
Phoenix Sip (Daily)
Space Nap (Occasional)
Primary Goal
DNA Shielding & Longevity
Resource Conservation & Stasis
The Flavor
Light Citrus / Trehalose Sweet
Earthy Creosote / Desert Rain
Key Tech
Dsup mRNA (Tardigrade)
DADLE + RPF Alarm (Tersicoccus)
Body State
High-Performance Active
Low-Energy Quietude
With human, plant, microbe and AI powers combined, our space teams will be much better equipped when working together harmoniously, as beings of different intelligences.
A rippling view in space time for the new year, a glowing horizon with birds in flight, an uplifting mood for the spirit.
This original conceptual photography blended with graphic design is currently available as different type of prints through Saatchi Art. It’s also available here – this canvas example is one possible medium among several:
More artwork for December 2025 to round out for the new year, includes this short series “Of Birds & Planes” of crisp winter blue. Given the geometric and surreal composition, that’s “planes” in more meanings than one, with the streak of an airplane flying in the sky, and also the planes of overlapping perspectives of the same scene, or it could be multiple scenes coexisting in a timeless way.
This year the hawk is often featured in my photography in a traditionally iconic way. There are also the ever-present and adorable sparrows. One has to admire the daring evolutionary path of birds; they remind us to sing, play and look skyward, of our possibilities.
Otherwise the tree presence is a continuation of a previous series called “Decision Trees.” Next, the appearance of the Wishbone shape has the significance of what I consider the win-win situation of life.
With these December 2025 pieces, I really appreciate all that winter has to offer, although I realize that looks different across the world. It definitely has a distinct color palette of light’s passage. And it can be viewed as season of peaceful rest, appreciation and renewal. Even the hunter hawks slow down and take long naps in the treetops.
Otherwise, stylistically, I enjoy how many painterly techniques such as color blocking that I can emulate with photography and graphic design.
High resolution prints in different media – from metal, canvas to digital – are available direct or through my catalogs on TurningArt and Saatchi Art. Please reach out to me on the Contact page for inquiries and custom orders.
An urban environmental solution – Replacing spikes with spiky plants
The other day at the train station, it dawned on me as a noticed the ominous spikes atop the LED light pole, that there is an effective solution that is both aesthetically and environmentally pleasing – Replace those unsightly pigeon spikes with resilient spiky plants that can grow in shallow soil!
The image of the left is the original version of course, and then the “After” version on the right includes the Eastern Prickly Pear Cactus, which can thrive in an all climates. The new and improved version also has to include a drainage system that won’t interfere with the existing utility.
Since green roofs have become popular, it would be accessible for any city or public building to adopt this. This relatively simple modification would contribute to carbon removal since they sequester and convert it to calcium carbonate! It would also be kind to the birds, plus enhance the urban wild.
It should also be noted that the Eastern Prickly Pear Cactus is medicinal and produces edible fruit. While not the only choice for spiky plant toppers, it’s certainly an excellent choice for different regions.
The “After” image was produced with Adobe Firefly in cahoots with Google Gemini 2.5 (w/ Nano Banana).
The conceptual photography artworks blend a hi tech modern cubist approach with natural, cosmic, and urban subjects. The focus is on color brilliance with op art dimension, that seems to shift and warp, or fold.
“The color of a unique moment in light.“
A few of these are inspired by and composed of searching the crisp winter skies, as I imagined being able to travel the entire cosmos. I think about what’s unifying. There’s beautiful atmospherics here on Earth and weather that extends from and out into space. Looking up and contemplating the connectedness, designing, imagining other dimensions of life to be experienced – it really does make the stars feel closer. (See also my previous post about the spacecraft design!)
Another theme here is the cycles of life, such as the with Roses and Moons, and how we may see in them an ongoing renewal, and learn from this.
I enjoy a fusion of the ancient and timeless with the modern and futuristic, that is of course heavily influenced by science, by what I ready and study. There’s the overlap of nature and technology, as one and the same, yet with reverence and respect for source nature. “Topology” is an example of this (see below).
From November 2025:
Topology
Shilajit
Alchemy Of Elements
Geochemistry
Meta Sky
Expansion Of Imagination
Everpresent Doors Of Abundance
An Opening In The Clouds
These are available in the Shop for order. Please reach out on the contact page for inquiries and customizations. The prints are produced as high resolution as possible, and are available in large format and digital. There’s also attention to choosing the best sustainable options for print production on different mediums. Please also see the regularly updated catalogs on TurningArt and Saatchi Art.
Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays! ~ Studio Shangri-La
The first movement of Electric Echoes: A Cosmic Tech Opera is out now on Studio Shangri-La / OCTAVES Music Publications. This was released last year as an album and even received an ASCAP concert writer’s award. It was composed for the most part by coming up with the general harmonic framework and then improvising. So that has been a task going back and fully notating the movements!
One of the main reasons for composing this tech opera Electric Echoes is to share the score for performance! Going forward— I’ll definitely be notating everything from the start! Yet, that the composition was based on the performance – and not the other way around – created a unique, dreamy jazzy atmosphere.
The “Digital Overture” as performed is a symphony or ensemble of synths plus the vocal singing and spoken word parts. And the score contains notes about to replicate this, or adapt to different instrumentation, such as orchestral.
This first movement is about 10 minutes long and is a 31 page download or paperback, and presents the overall message of the opera — the beauty of innovation and evolution in the cosmos, on all scales. And it has different cosmic characters, from forces of nature, to celestial bodies, to humans, AI & microbes.
