In the spring and summer of 2019, I was an artist-in-residence at the Max Planck Institute for the History of Science. I raised a total of 700 silkworms while researching the history of sericulture and tradition of sericulture treatises in China and Japan.

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During this time, I kept a journal that documented my daily activities rearing worms, as well as recorded data of environmental and climate changes, and historical contemplations. This journal and the research work I did during this time provides the foundation for Treatise. 

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In addition, I produced a square sheet of felted silk - using a technique common to ethnic groups in Southwest China - from the hundreds of silkworms I raised. This piece was gifted and collected by the Max Planck Institute for the History of Science.