Fungus, the bane of preservationists, is now the canvas for an innovative art form. Kexin Wang's Funguy project harnesses the power of lasers and fungi to create intricate, living artwork. By repeatedly tracing an outline onto a dish of agar gel with a laser diode, the photophobic fungus grows only up to the edge of the traced figure, resulting in complex designs. This method evolved from a research project that developed a computer model for fungal growth, combining a temporal convolutional neural network and a cellular automaton. The neural network learns fungal growth patterns from images, while the cellular automaton simulates these patterns under different conditions, with its rules learned from the convolutional network. The researchers found that shorter wavelengths and a 405 nm laser worked best for controlling growth. The model also predicted nutrient depletion areas, allowing the laser to focus on tracing only the desired growth patterns. The Funguy kit's laser system, built from a DVD drive frame, uses fungi from the Mucor genus and can print with other photophobic microorganisms. While initially aimed at artistic and educational purposes, the project opens up possibilities for functional applications, given the development of electronic parts made from fungi. This innovative use of fungi challenges traditional notions of art and technology, offering a unique and sustainable approach to creative expression.
