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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. We are showcasing the work of this year’s Massee Arts Grant awardees here!
Massee Arts Grants awarded in 2026
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.
By foregrounding the fungal component and the natural fluorescence of these organisms, the project offers a sensory entry point into fungal science and the principle of interdependence in nature. Fluorescing in reciprocity will be 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 will be made in collaboration with Adam Aaronson Glass studio, one of UK’s leading glass artists and an ongoing collaborator.
"We’re so grateful for this opportunity to explore the vibrant world of lichen through ‘Fluorescing in reciprocity’ – an installation combining biomorphic sculpture, light and participatory elements. The project will centre on the cooperative dynamics of lichenised fungi as organisms that form intricate, mutually sustaining relationships. The BMS Massee Arts Grant enables us to work on the research and fabrication of this artwork in collaboration with lichenologist Ulrik Søchting and glassblowing artist Adam Aaronson. Fluorescing in Reciprocity will be an ode to symbiosis, highlighting cohabitation, mutual support, and shared survival as fundamental ecological strategies. Thank you to The British Mycological Society – we are excited to share the project on UK Fungus Day and at All Things Fungi Festival later this year!"
Fungi secrets
Paper Rhino artists Amanda Rigby and Jason Duckmanton will collaborate 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, they will create a short film that appeals to viewers of all ages and is highly shareable, encouraging curiosity and deepening awareness. The animation will enable viewers to observe processes that are normally invisible or too slow to perceive. The combination of visual storytelling and spoken word will enable complex mycological concepts to be made easy-to-understand, encouraging curiosity among viewers who may have little or no prior knowledge of fungi.
"We are delighted that this project has been selected for the 2026 Massee Arts Grant. Engaging with such vital research presents an exciting opportunity to create meaningful new work and to develop our practice as artists. We’re looking forward to working with the support and expertise that will help strengthen and enrich the final animation."
