„the metabolic scribe & the silicon augurs (WT)“ is a transdisciplinary research project at the intersection of bio-art, AI, mythology, and memory. In a former East German pioneer camp, Matthias Schönijahn, a former Jungpionier (young pioneer of the Free German Youth), is documenting how microbes, algae, and fungi are transforming socialist relicts. These microbial "pioneers" carry a planetary memory. They have survived all mass extinctions and made human existence possible.
Just as the Pythias at Delphi once received incomprehensible messages, microorganisms communicate in their own biochemical language, transforming the materiality and meaning of the pioneer books left behind in the camp. AI systems, the priests of our time, who control financial markets, make medical diagnoses, or offer relationship advice, are asked to interpret the microbial utterances and translate them into performative scores, musical scores, and stage directions.

Matthias Schönijahn is an interdisciplinary artist and director, who explores more-than-human interconnectedness through deep listening methods. With his research-based approach, he investigates bio-relational aesthetics and temporary collective structures in videos, sound works, and musical-performative installations.
After studying literature, social sciences, and media studies in Potsdam, he graduated with distinction in Applied Theater Studies (B.A./M.A.) in Gießen.
His works have been shown throughout Europe: HayArt Center Yerevan, Asortymenta Kimnata (UA), Nowy Teatr Warsaw, Spielart Festival Munich, Hellerau Dresden, Hebbel am Ufer, and SOPHIENSÆLE Berlin.
He collaborates with other artists such as Wojtek Blecharz, Martyna Poznańska, Tereza Yakovyna, Paulina Miu Kühling, de, Otucha-Collective, and others. In 2024, he founded the association Soll & Werden e.V. with Constantin von Thun and Lisa Schettel.