Shannon Lee Kupfer

Multisensory Mold: An Interdisciplinary Investigation of Ubiquitous Indoor Fungi

At any given time, we are surrounded by microscopic fungi. Our cohabitation with these invisible molds and yeasts is quite normal, regardless of where we live or how clean we keep our spaces. This research project aims to exemplify this reality by making the invisible visible and presenting a variety of fungi sampled from homes around the world. The visual component of the exhibition, fungal cultures within glass terrariums, is accompanied by sonic and tactile interpretations of the cultures as well. By means of a multisensory approach, this research project not only intends to demonstrate our entanglement with microscopic fungi, but also to counter unwarranted apprehensions and misconceptions. The mixed media tactile pieces and cross-modal sonifications invite the public to engage with and think about fungi in entirely new and non-threatening ways. This accessible, multisensory unveiling of our fungal roommates conveys just one microscopic example of the many interspecies entanglements that humans take part in.

 2019