Art piece 'Chanterelle' by Riitta Ikonen and Anni Koponen depicting the world of fungi with yellow tones.

Dive Into Mycology: 200 Works Illuminate the Enigmatic World of Fungi

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Written by Sam Johnson

2026-09-09

Exploring the world of fungi through art

Phaidon is set to release an intriguing exploration into the realm of fungi this October, capturing the boundless diversity of this kingdom through a collection of over 200 works. This new publication promises to transport you across centuries and cultures, unveiling the hidden beauty of this often-overlooked kingdom.

Fungi: The World of Mushrooms is an expansive visual journey spanning over 200 pages, meticulously compiled to showcase the remarkable creativity fungi inspire. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art, the book features a varied array of works. Riitta Ikonen and Anni Koponen’s evocative costumes, captured in their natural environments, provide a surreal peek into the mysterious allure of fungi.

Artistic interpretations from the mushroom kingdom’s history to modernity

The collection includes stunning illustrations by Hilma af Klint, blending ethereal beauty with scientific curiosity. Carsten Höller’s installation of suspended toadstools adds a thought-provoking twist, creating a visual experience that challenges perceptions. Every piece within the book highlights fungi’s influence on art and culture.

For more on artistic interpretations, explore Francesco Pirazzi’s paintings for a journey into hidden mysteries with ethereal beauty.

Large, vibrant interactive sculpture 'Shrumen Lumen' made from aluminum and polypropylene by FoldHaus Collective.
FoldHaus Collective, “Shrumen Lumen” (2016), aluminum, steel, polypropylene, interactive electronics, 11 to 17 × 9 to 12 feet. Photo by Rene Smith
Ancient mushroom stone sculpture, crafted from stone, resting on a simple pedestal.
Mushroom stone, (400–250 BCE), stone, 13 1/8 × 7 1/2 × 6 3/4 inches. Photo courtesy of Museum Rietberg Zürich, Rainer Wolfsberger
Art piece by Chris Ritson made from live fungus and sawdust, capturing organic textures.
Chris Ritson, “Mushroom Picture” (2022), live fungus and sawdust, 20 × 14 inches. Photo by Chris Ritson
Hilma af Klint's artwork features a mushroom, painted with watercolor and gouache on paper.
Hilma af Klint, probably Agaricus bisporus (cultivated mushroom) (1893), watercolor, gouache, pencil, and ink on paper, 16 3/8 × 12 inches. Photo courtesy of Naturhistoriska Riksmuseet, Stockholm
Cover of a book featuring detailed drawings or illustrations of various fungi species.
the cover of fungi

Anticipating the release in this unique kingdom

Scheduled for release on October 15, this publication promises to be a captivating addition for anyone fascinated by mushrooms or the arts. This comprehensive tome invites you to discover the artistic potential and biological wonder of the fungal world.

Source: thisiscolossal.com

Frequently asked questions

What does the book Fungi: The World of Mushrooms feature?

The book features a collection of over 200 works showcasing the diversity of fungi, spanning from ancient artifacts to contemporary art, with works like Riitta Ikonen and Anni Koponen’s evocative costumes.

Who are some artists featured in the Fungi book?

The book includes works by artists such as Riitta Ikonen, Anni Koponen, Hilma af Klint, and Carsten Höller, with illustrations, installations, and paintings that spotlight fungi’s influence on art.

When will the book Fungi: The World of Mushrooms be released?

The book Fungi: The World of Mushrooms is scheduled for release on October 15.