Ever tried to take a photograph using bacteria? As the light source, I mean, rather than as the subject? An upcoming exhibition at the Old Operating Theatre presents images captured by the soft glow of micro organisms.

With funding from the Wellcome Trust arts fund, artist Anne Brodie, microbiologist Simon Park and curator Caterina Albano worked together on a series of images formed from the light emitted by the bioluminescent bacteria Photobacterium phosphoreum. Naked volunteers were asked to stand inside a bioluminescent photo booth, while the bacteria worked their magic. The unusual portraits also include images of the personal papers of Joseph Lister – the pioneer of antiseptic and merciless butcher of all things microscopic. You can see examples of the team’s work here.

On the final night, the project culminates with a live installation and ‘human photographic projections onto the ancient operating table’, which forms the centrepiece of the marvellous little museum. The team will also discuss their work.

Exploring the Invisible runs at the Old Operating Theatre and Herb Garret, 9A St Thomas Street, Southwark, December 4-8. For the live event on 8 December, tickets must be booked in advance.