The mysteries of mushrooms and their underground, largely-invisible systems have captivated scientists and interested fungi-fiends for centuries. Aside from being mindblowing in a practical sense, fungi specimens are also strangely beautiful to look at. Foundation and Friends of the Botanic Gardens are harnessing this wonder with their new exhibition, inviting over 50 artists to interpret fungi over a variety of mediums.
Fungi x Botanica combines Foundation & Friends bi-annual Botanica exhibition with last year's postponed Fungi exhibition for one mega packed program of over 150 works, fascinating talks and some much-needed fundraising for the Royal Botanic Garden we all know and love. See renderings of the jawdropping world of fungi, mushrooms and lichens in glass, ceramics, painting, photography, sculpture and more. And keep your eyes peeled for expansions into other plant life with artists working under the Botanica umbrella – an exhibition celebrating it's twenty first year of botanical art celebrations.
Entry to the exhibition is free with all works up for sale. You can also secure a spot at the extra-special Fungi x Botanica opening night, which takes small groups on a guided tour with wine and canape's provided. And, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the scintillating talks program that will look at medicinal fungi, how species are used for textiles and building materials and more.
Fungi x Botanica is in the Lion Gate Lodge in the Royal Botanic Gardens.