It traces the rise of blue-green algae, the earliest oxygenic photosynthesizers for the evolution of oxygen-dependent life on earth.

The 2009 Artist-in Residence's multi-media installation, 21%02 at the Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney, evokes the planet-changing events more than 38 billion years ago.

She uses video, projected images, overlayed sound, mirrored surfaces, glass, fabric and other materials to capture a vision of the planet as a huge laboratory of alchemical process that leads to the biodiversity of life on Earth today.

The installation opens on Charles Darwin's birthday (February 12) to February 22, uses images of the scientist and his book to create visual metaphors for the process of evolution.

Pollak's concurrent exhibition, In the Beginning, in the Red Box Gallery at the Gardens, looks at evolution and the ancient lineage that runs back through time and connects humans to all living things.

The exhibition is grown out of her investigation of Australia's oldest garden and its scientific collections during her residency.

She uses digital photographs, computer generated images, works on paper and mixed media pieces to place us in the time before our time that shaped our existence.

The exhibition will be open week days from February 5 to March 26.

Pollak's artistic career started in printmaking and photography in the 1970s has evolved to include sculpture and film.

Her fascination with the natural world and acuteness of observation are reflected in her artworks driven by her interest in revealing the hidden aspects of things and beauty in the unexpected.

Entry to both the installation and exhibition is free

Enquiries: 9231 8111 www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au.