Fifth Kingdom: October 2009

October 31, 2009

Mushrooms can help save the world

Since first becoming interested in the structures, forms and colours of fungi I have done quite a bit of research on the 'Fifth Kingdom'. I am always finding out new facts, new websites to look at and new and exciting information about fungi, not to mention some fantastic images. I think the most amazing information I have come across is a talk by Paul Stamets on 6 ways mushrooms can save the world.
Paul Stamets is a Mycologist who is inspirational on the functions and uses of fungi. He has also written a book 'Mycellium Running' which I have but have not yet read. I pick it up and read bits every now and then. Some of it is quiet technical, but very informative. If you never knew much about mushrooms and fungi this talk will blow your mind about what they can do.

October 18, 2009

Experimenting

I have started working with cement as a base for fungi to grow. I want to bring in the urban aspect as the base for the fungi element which are also made of metal. urban on urban. lets see how it works. here i have just made blocks of cement with a rough feature. Tried to drill holes in the concrete. did work but you cant get a masonary drill bit less that 3mm and i want it to be 1mm or less. so i did go through quite a few drill bits.

Managed to drill some holes in this one. Different cement. This is a more sand mix.

This piece i made more free form and made the cracks happen. Wasnt sure if it would still hold together but it does after it dries. Fasinating stuff. This is thin too so not as heavy as the other pieces.

A new pile of cement. These bags are quite heavy too. They were given to me as a birthday present by my good friend Deb Jones. I think she may have her eye on them too so i better get making some stuff...