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Nature 461, 598 (1 October 2009) | doi:10.1038/461598a; Published online 30 September 2009

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Q&A: Gustav Metzger on destruction

Emma Marris

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Gustav Metzger's monumental and technical artworks comment on the capacity of human society to obliterate itself. From displays that eat themselves with acid to liquid-crystal patterns projected onto performing bands such as The Who in the 1960s, he questions environmental degradation, nuclear war and capitalism. As a major retrospective of his work opens, Metzger argues that scientists should be more active in counteracting society's tendency to seek oblivion.

ARTS REVIEWED: Gustav Metzger: Decades 1959–2009

Serpentine Gallery, London
Until 8 November

Why is the destruction of nature an important theme for you?