Inverted Architecture Installation from 400 Hanging Mushroom Bricks

Four hundred hanging mushroom bricks laid out like inverted pyramids are on display at the Shenzhen Biennale in China in 2022. This Inverted Architecture Installation by Studio Link Arch was created for the 'More than Human Adventure' exhibition theme. This installation steals visitors' attention because it is unique and successfully combines living organisms with installation art.

Inverted Architecture Installation

The beginning idea of making this artwork was from a mycelium which is part of a fungus with a structure like a living root. This mycelium is a food absorbent that adapts well to various environments and is a collection of fine threads called hyphae. In this installation, the concept of roots growing downwards is applied upside down into a pyramid. The shape of the inverted pyramid also depicts artificial and human efforts for the future growth of nature.

Inverted pyramid concept illustration of mycelium

The installation consists of 400 hanging mushroom bricks that use renewable materials and are biodegradable. Bricks, a growing medium for mushrooms, are made using agricultural waste straw, bagasse, and wheat bran as a substrate. The types of mushrooms used at this exhibition are lingzhi mushroom, antler lingzhi, pink oyster mushroom, carotene-tinted mycelium, and beech mushroom. Each type of herbal medicine is placed at a different height and will grow under the right temperature and humidity.

Mushroom detail on bricks

Mushroom arrangement on an inverted pyramid

Mushroom bricks are assembled with ropes, hung from above, and tied to iron sticks. The hardest part of the project is how one by one, the short length of the rope is adjusted to form an inverted pyramid. The installation is located in a converted old brewery, with gallery space between concrete blocks. The structure of the building that was left original and exposed blended into this artwork. A semi-outdoor part of the building with an open roof allows incoming sunlight to illuminate the installation. Right below the installation is a pool to increase the space's humidity. Visitors who come to appreciate the exhibition can capture photos from various sides of the installation.

The process of setting up the installation using a rope

Visitors can take photos of this work of art from various angles