Mushrooms: The Art, Design and Future of Fungi

Step into the strange, fascinating, and ever-surprising world of fungi with the Mushrooms: The Art, Design and Future of Fungi Exhibition Catalogue, published to accompany the Somerset House Trust Exhibition. More than just a scientific exploration, this richly illustrated volume invites readers to reimagine the humble mushroom as a potent symbol of creativity, resilience, and renewal. From the fantastical illustrations of Beatrix Potter to the bold works of contemporary artists such as Carsten Höller, Alex Morrison, and Seana Gavin, Mushrooms captures the mycological muse as it has inspired artists, designers, musicians, and thinkers across centuries. The book traces mushrooms' journey from natural curiosity to radical design material, ecological miracle, and psychedelic icon. Spanning visual art, fashion, architecture, and literature, this catalogue explores fungi as a metaphor for interconnectedness and transformation. Curated by the dynamic curatorial team of Francesca Gavin and Claire Catterall the exhibition explores fungi's unique place in culture and science, examining how they challenge our notions of life, decay, and regeneration. Whether you're a mycophile, a design enthusiast, or simply curious about the hidden networks beneath our feet, Mushrooms is an enthralling companion to one of the most original exhibitions of recent years.