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Documentation
Introduction
Why not utilise something that happens naturally, and every second in every part of the world?
This work arose from an interest in creating living materials from substances that are considered waste in our society - with minimal work and energy requirement. The result? A lamp whose reflector is virtually grown from the mycelium of Ganoderma lucidum [Reishi] and sawdust from Fagus sylvatica [European beech].
Material
But what exactly is mycelium? And how does it allow to create composites with practical use?
Mycelium describes the entirety of the substance of fungi. What is commonly described as a ‘fungus’ is actually only the fruiting body. However, this consists of mycelium (‘fungal mass’), which in turn consists of hyphae (‘fungal threads’).
These hyphae have the ability to anastomose, meaning that, similar to our blood vessels, they can grow into and intertwine with each other; not only in relation to themselves, but also in relation to what they want to digest. And this is where the substrate, in this case wood, comes into play. This ‘intertwining’ occurs at the cellular level and ensures that even the finest particles are thoroughly penetrated and ‘glued’ together.
The result is a composite with a wide range of properties. Mechanically speaking, it behaves similarly to XPS foams. But in addition to that, it is also naturally (to a certain extent) water-repellent, fire-resistant and antifungal. The most interesting aspect, however, is that the material is alive [biodesign]. The organism is left in a dormant state and can be reactivated. But don't worry, this does not happen in normal every-day scenarios. In an event of damage, for example, the material can be stimulated to grow again and thus regenerate itself.
Being alive also means that every object is unique. Initially, the mycelium forms a dense, beige-white network (similar to mold on soft cheese). But the older it gets - and the more intensely it has to distinguish itself from its environment - the more it begins to change its structure and appearence. These compactions, known as 'demarcation lines', protect the organism from drying/ excessive moisture and can therefore also be forced and manipulated. In addition to the environmental conditions, the substrate and the fungus also play a decisive role: The resulting colors, patterns ans structures can range from soft yellow and orange tones to various shades of brown to intense red or even almost pure black while beeing incredibly smooth - or as rugged as you like.
Material Samples
Design
And why actually a luminaire?
My goal has always been to bring mushrooms more 'into the spotlight' and make them more accessible to everyone. Often, these essential organisms are associated with disease, mold, and disgust, even though they are ubiquitous and have enormous potential. This approach can therefore be found in every aspect of the design...
...not just figuratively, but literally. Instead of a classic structure, I chose a small 'flashlight' that can be held by hand. With it, the work can be illuminated from all sides, explored, and staged as one likes.
But why this shape? Because it, too, is modeled after nature. Just like a Fomes fomentarius [Tinder Fungus] I discovered growing on a tree trunk during a walk in the woods, my composite is also attached to a wooden stick. When not in use, the flashlight and its support are reminiscent of stacked wood, which can also often be found in the forest. All these elements are held together with the help of technical components - similar to how our society's knowledge can help us use nature and keep it in balance.
In order to draw attention even more clearly - and in contrast to the complexity of the composite's colors and shapes - all other components were designed to be as minimal as possible. Accordingly, I decided to use simple, geometric shapes and choose colors that are as unobtrusive as possible. As a result, all parts that are not made of natural raw materials were deliberately chosen in black: natural vs. artificial.
Besides that, the circle has a fundamental, high significance in this work - not only because of its redundancy in my design, but also because of its symbolism; from the smallest to the largest parts of our world, through constantly repeating cycles, to the natural cycle of life itself. The circle can be found everywhere and is always a symbol of stability, renewal, and wholeness.
In the end, I wanted to create something that uses a harmonious aesthetic to generate curiosity, stimulate discussion, create understanding, and with that gradually foster acceptance for a coexistence with fungi - without compromising on quality and precision.
Design Details
Sustainability
What exactly about this is sustainable?
As already mentioned, I used a waste material for this work - more specifically, beech sawdust. Made from branches; with bark... None of which could be used for timber production anyway.
In addition, the material grows naturally and does not have to be 'produced' in the traditional sense. This means that no energy is required except for creating the molds and maintaining constant environmental conditions with the right parameters. For this reason, the composite is not only CO2-neutral, but CO2-negative. More matter is bound, than released.
However, what I find most interesting is what happens during or after use. If damaged, the object does not need to be replaced or repaired, but can be stimulated to grow and regenerate itself. If it is severely damaged or needs to be disposed, it can simply be returned to nature. All components are modularly connected and can be easily separated. As soon as the reflector decomposes, the fungus is introduced into the environment and can spread. Don't worry, the species is native and non-invasive; in fact, it is even known as a traditional, medicinal mushroom. It also releases the already assimilated components of the sawdust and fertilizes its surroundings.
All components come directly from nature, have been upgcycled by me, and with that been given a new purpose so that they can ultimately be returned to the cycle - with added value.
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DIY
Want to try it yourself?
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Information
General conditions and information regarding this work.
Location
Institute
Circumstances
Date
Price
Hildesheim
HAWK Hildesheim
M.A. Thesis
Okt. 2022 - Feb. 2023
Not for Sale
Documentation
How I got from Idea to Prototype.
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⚠ UNDER CONSTRUCTION
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