A list of intriguing things

One: Balaram Khamari’s ‘Microbial Peacock’ won the second prize at the American Society for Microbiology’s (ASM) annual agar art contest. Like other agar art, it is ‘painted’ with microbes—in this case “highly pathogenic” bacteria—carefully arranged so they create an image as they grow. Hindustan Times has more on Khamari. (h/t splainer subscriber Sowmya Swaminathan)

Two: Speaking of unusual art mediums, Tatsuo Horiuchi is a ‘Microsoft Excel’ artist. Yup, that’s exactly what it sounds like. (h/t splainer founding member Kruthika Ravi Kumar)

Three: Haute couture is all about haute comfort in these pandemic days. Say hello to Balenciaga Toe Sock sneakers that cost a cool $1,322. If that isn’t sufficiently weird, check out the split-toe Tabi sneakers for the “stylish weirdo”—which is far more affordable at $99.

Four: MoodBeam—looks like a white FitBit—allows your employer to track your emotional state. No, it isn’t as creepy as it sounds. The idea is that you (voluntarily) hit the yellow button if you feel good, and blue button when you’re down—and that lets your manager know how you’re doing while WFH. Ok, it still feels a little creepy. BBC News has more.