The FUNGI project by Marco Barotti bridges the disciplines of art, science, and technology to shed light on the intricate underground world of mycorrhizal fungi, often referred to as the “Wood Wide Web.” This immersive installation combines mycorrhizal data sonification, 3D printed ceramic sculptures, and artificial intelligence (AI) to create a metaphorical digital twin of fungal ecosystems. By engaging audiences with this intricate biological network, the project underscores the ecological importance of fungi and advocates for their protection.

A Symphonic Ecosystem: Sound Meets Data
At the heart of the installation is a soundscape inspired by the Aka people’s polyphonic chant, Song for Gathering Mushrooms. This chant is transformed using geotagged mycorrhizal data collected from the Maajaam landscape in Estonia and beyond. An artificial neural network maps the data points to sound parameters, creating a dynamic auditory experience. As the fungal network grows, the soundscape evolves through machine learning, offering a captivating auditory representation of fungal life.

The FUNGI ORACLE: AI-Driven Insights
An AI system, the FUNGI ORACLE, synthesizes knowledge from scientific literature and philosophical texts, including Let’s Become Fungal, Entangled Life, and Ways of Being. This AI-driven component provides textual teachings that highlight the symbiotic ideologies of fungal ecosystems and their potential to inspire human societal models.

Material Innovation: 3D Printed Ceramic Sculptures
The installation features 3D printed ceramic sculptures derived from mycorrhizal fungi images taken from root samples collected in 12 locations around Maajaam. These sculptures serve as physical embodiments of fungal networks and function as resonating chambers for the sonified data. Created with advanced ceramic 3D printing techniques, these pieces merge art and technology, showcasing the ecological diversity of fungi.

A Collaborative Effort in Sustainability
The project is a testament to interdisciplinary collaboration. It brings together researchers, artists, and technologists, including mycorrhizal experts, software developers, and 3D printing specialists. The installation leverages sustainable materials and processes, reflecting its commitment to ecological responsibility and material innovation.

Source: Marco Barotti
Photos: Marco Barotti