Unveiling Natures Underground Network
Mycelium is a root-like structure of fungal organisms that is made up of tiny threads called ‘hyphae’. These hyphae form a complex, interconnected web that can spread extensively through soil. This web is capable of sharing information and nutrients throughout the ecosystem - with other fungal organisms and even with plants. Mycelium holds the soil together, it is the glue, the messenger, and sometimes even the protector of plant life.
This immersive environment allows the user to experience life as if they were part of mycelial network itself. On all surfaces, stimulating visuals of the mycelial network as perceived by fungi are shown to exchange information and talk to itself. Additionally, a soundtrack generated by fungal data is played, this soundtrack is a synthesis of the signals that real fungal organisms express when connected to electrodes. Finally, the user can experience earthy smells of wet dirt and organic plant matter that will complete the mental transportation into the mycelial world.
The Web of Life aims to generate empathy and appreciation for the complex life and processes that take place constantly beneath our feet in an effort to be the first step in improving human-fungal relationships.
Team 15
Alfons Alcoverro (Elisava Barcelona)
Kirk Peters (RMIT Melbourne)
Thomas Yu (RMIT Melbourne)
Hao Vinh Tran (RMIT Vietnam) Louis Tran (RMIT Vietnam)
Dat Quoc Ngo (RMIT Vietnam)
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