Alchemical Mycology
Renewable pigments extracted from fungi
Fungi are an underexplored source of vivid, biodegradable, sustainable colorants, that can be responsibly harvested from nature or lab-grown. As a mycological alchemist, I extract pigments from fungi and explore how they can function as abundant renewable sources of color with the potential to reduce, or replace, our dependence on non-renewable colorants (synthetic or mineral). By collaborating with fungi on a cosmetic collection using pigments extracted from mushrooms, lichens, yeast, and mold, I am challenging our relationship with color as it intersects beauty, health, and the environment.
Company/Institution
Central Saint Martins
Country
United Kingdom
Website
Designer(s)
Jesse Adler
Jesse is a multidisciplinary designer (MA Material Futures, Central Saint Martins) and biomolecular scientist (University of Michigan) working at the intersection of design, science, and sustainable innovation. Her practice is led by her curiosity about the natural world and passion for planet-centered design. Jesse’s current research focuses on extracting pigments from fungi and explores their potential to reduce, or replace, our dependence on colourants from non-renewable resources (such as minerals and fossil fuels) especially in the textile, food, and cosmetic industries.