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Kaitlin Bryson

Art + Ecology

  • work
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  • statement
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Molds For Futures

Molds For Futures is a video compilation showcasing microscope imagery of hyphae and spores of Trichoderma and Aspergillus species of molds that were cultivated (by accident) in Bryson's laboratory. Though these molds are unfavorable for cultivation and are seen as contaminants, Bryson is interested in the social parallels that can be drawn from the concept of contamination. In setting up the cultivation space, Bryson is inherently inviting a host of organisms by providing habitat and sugars for most microorganism to thrive in. She questions how she can morally adhere to "sterility" when she provides this type of environment. How can we determine who is allowed to live where?  These molds are undesirable because they out-compete the targeted species of basidiomycetes that Bryson works to cultivate. 

Furthermore, Trichoderma in particular is an important ascomycete who paves the way for other microorganisms in the soil. As one of the most important compost starters, Trichoderma plays an integral role in the recycling of Earth's materials. Molds For Futures is meant to showcase the beauty of these molds as a nod to their lives, and to illuminate the potential of working with contaminants.  

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