Fungal Wars
Fungal Wars is a thought-provoking performance spanning over one full week. It satirically portrays a lab-based bloodsport, where engineered mycelium species fight for dominance, resources, and territory. In an era of impending environmental catastrophe, Western culture seeks salvation through technological advancements.
Mycelium, touted as a wonder material, holds promise to address critical issues. However, Fungal Wars challenges the notion that mere material replacements are sufficient; instead, it calls for a shift towards cooperation and symbiosis with nature. there is a paradox inherent in bio-design: the very act of manipulating living organisms for human purposes could be seen as an expression of anthropocentrism, since it prioritises human needs and desires over those of other organisms. This paradox highlights the ethical challenges of bio-design and the need to carefully consider the implications of using living organisms for human purposes.
The project unfolds through three executive games, namely Closed Combat, the 0.62 Dash, and King of the Hill. Engineered Reishi and Oyster species engage in simulated battles within custom glass vessels. Monitoring their growth determines the victors. UV photography techniques document chemical releases during these confrontations, offering valuable insights. Fungal Wars invites viewers to contemplate humanity's relationship with nature and the consequences of unchecked exploitation in the pursuit of progress. It serves as a poignant reminder of the need to embrace a culture of cooperation and symbiosis for a sustainable future.
Fungal Wars is currently on show at Bio Art Laboratories, Eindhoven. Fungal Wars is covered in Dezeen and Malou will discuss her findings during a podcast for FutureBased.
Fungal Wars is a thought-provoking performance spanning over one full week. It satirically portrays a lab-based bloodsport, where engineered mycelium species fight for dominance, resources, and territory. In an era of impending environmental catastrophe, Western culture seeks salvation through technological advancements.
Mycelium, touted as a wonder material, holds promise to address critical issues. However, Fungal Wars challenges the notion that mere material replacements are sufficient; instead, it calls for a shift towards cooperation and symbiosis with nature. there is a paradox inherent in bio-design: the very act of manipulating living organisms for human purposes could be seen as an expression of anthropocentrism, since it prioritises human needs and desires over those of other organisms. This paradox highlights the ethical challenges of bio-design and the need to carefully consider the implications of using living organisms for human purposes.
The project unfolds through three executive games, namely Closed Combat, the 0.62 Dash, and King of the Hill. Engineered Reishi and Oyster species engage in simulated battles within custom glass vessels. Monitoring their growth determines the victors. UV photography techniques document chemical releases during these confrontations, offering valuable insights. Fungal Wars invites viewers to contemplate humanity's relationship with nature and the consequences of unchecked exploitation in the pursuit of progress. It serves as a poignant reminder of the need to embrace a culture of cooperation and symbiosis for a sustainable future.
Fungal Wars is currently on show at Bio Art Laboratories, Eindhoven. Fungal Wars is covered in Dezeen and Malou will discuss her findings during a podcast for FutureBased.
2022 - 2023
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