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Art projects
The British Mycological Society runs the Massee Arts Grant, named after the first President of the British Mycological Society, George Edward Massee. The grant offers financial support for the creation of artistic works that stimulate dialogue between artists, mycologists and the public. The mission of the British Mycological Society is to promote fungal science and we recognise that art, in all its forms, provides a powerful route through which we can attract new audiences, provoke discussion and stimulate interest in mycology.
Take a look at the work of this year’s Massee Arts Grant awardees here...
Fungi secrets
Paper Rhino artists Amanda Rigby and Jason Duckmanton have collaborated with poet Mark Grist to create an animated poem explaining the wonder of fungi and showing how important they are for life. Combining their distinctive creative styles, this short film appeals to viewers of all ages, is highly shareable, and encourages curiosity and deeper awareness.
Watch the animation
Fluorescing in reciprocity
'Fluorescing in reciprocity' is a new participatory light sculpture that invites audiences to encounter fungi through the living symbiosis of lichens. This complex partnership between fungi, algae, and microbial communities surrounds us, underpins the ecosystems we depend on, and is a shining exemplar of mutualistic symbiosis. Historically, lichens have shaped our very understanding of symbiosis, with the term being coined to describe the relationship between mycobionts and photobionts in lichen. Today, this concept extends beyond biology, offering a framework for rethinking how we live together through interdependence.
Fluorescing in reciprocity is developed by artist duo Amanda Baum & Rose Leahy, in dialogue with lichenologist Ulrik Søchting, (Associate Professor Emeritus of Department of Biology, Ecology and Evolution, University of Copenhagen). Glassblowing is made in collaboration with Adam Aaronson Glass studio, one of UK’s leading glass artists and an ongoing collaborator.