Fungus, the bane of preservationists, is now being harnessed as a creative tool in the world of art. Kexin Wang's Funguy project is a fascinating example of how technology and nature can be combined to create unique and intricate designs. By using a laser diode to trace outlines onto a dish of agar gel where fungus is growing, the Funguy project essentially 'prints' complex patterns. This innovative approach not only showcases the beauty of fungal growth but also opens up new possibilities for artistic expression and educational exploration.
The technical underpinnings of this project are equally intriguing. At its core, the Funguy project is a result of a research endeavor that developed a computer model for fungal growth. This model comprises two key components: a temporal convolutional neural network and a cellular automaton. The convolutional network learns fungal growth patterns from a series of images, while the cellular automaton simulates these growth patterns under various starting conditions. What makes this model truly remarkable is its ability to adapt and learn. Each cell within the automaton runs a small neural network that learns the rules of growth under the supervision of the convolutional network, making the process highly dynamic and responsive.
The researchers found that shorter wavelengths and lower laser powers were more effective in controlling the fungus's growth. A 405 nm laser was particularly successful in this regard. The growth model played a crucial role in this process by predicting where the growth medium had depleted its nutrients, allowing the laser to trace only the areas where the fungus could continue to spread. This precision and adaptability are what make the Funguy project so innovative.
While the current focus of the Funguy project is on artistic and educational applications, the potential for more functional uses is significant. The project's success in controlling fungal growth patterns and its ability to work with various photophobic microorganisms, including slime molds, suggest a wide range of possibilities. Furthermore, the integration of fungi into electronic components, as seen in projects like Myceliotronics, which uses fungi as biodegradable electronics substrates, further highlights the versatility and potential of this natural material.
In conclusion, the Funguy project is a testament to the power of innovation and the unexpected ways in which technology can be applied. It challenges our traditional views of art and opens up new avenues for creative exploration. As we continue to explore the intersection of technology and nature, projects like this remind us of the endless possibilities that lie ahead.
