Can a mushroom make music? Devon exhibition explores ‘cultural world’ of fungi

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Published: 2026-09-30T04:05:31.140Z • Permanent link

Devon's Exeter museum is set to host a unique exhibition that delves into the "cultural world" of fungi, marking a groundbreaking collaboration between a DJ, a musician, and a renowned artist. The event, scheduled to take place later this month, promises to push the boundaries of interdisciplinary art and science. The mastermind behind the project is artist and mycologist, Dr. Emma Taylor, who has spent years studying the intricate relationships between humans and fungi.

Dr. Taylor's work focuses on the mycobiome, the trillions of microorganisms that inhabit the human body, often referred to as the "second genome." Her research has led to a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between humans and fungi, and she aims to explore these connections in her exhibition. The project will feature a series of installations, including a musical collaboration between DJ Alex Grey and musician Rachel Farris, who spent hours in woodland "collaborating" with fungi to create an immersive soundscape. The event is being organized in partnership with Exeter Museum and the Devon Wildlife Trust.

The exhibition is set to take place in the city's museum, which will be transformed into a vibrant and immersive environment that showcases the beauty and diversity of fungi. The event promises to be a unique experience, offering visitors a chance to explore the often-overlooked world of fungi and its significance in our daily lives. As the exhibition's curator, Dr. Taylor, notes, "Fungi are an integral part of our ecosystem, and yet we often overlook them. This exhibition aims to change that by showcasing the fascinating world of fungi and its many connections to human culture.

The impact of this exhibition is set to be felt far beyond the walls of the museum, with significant implications for the cultural and linguistic landscape. The project's focus on the mycobiome and the complex relationships between humans and fungi has the potential to inspire new areas of research and innovation. Companies such as MycoTech and Fungi Perfect Foods are already working on the commercial applications of mycoremediation, the use of fungi to clean pollutants from the environment.

As the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products continues to grow, the exhibition's emphasis on the importance of fungi in our ecosystem is set to resonate with consumers and businesses alike. Research communities are already taking notice, with scientists such as Dr. Paul Stamets, a renowned mycologist, highlighting the potential of fungi to revolutionize fields such as medicine and agriculture. The exhibition's focus on the cultural significance of fungi also has the potential to inspire new areas of artistic expression, from music and visual arts to literature and poetry.

The exhibition is set to take place against the backdrop of a growing interest in the natural world and the importance of biodiversity. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the interconnectedness of human and natural systems, and the need for a more holistic approach to health and wellbeing. The project's focus on the mycobiome and the complex relationships between humans and fungi is part of a broader trend towards greater recognition of the importance of microorganisms in our daily lives.