Textiles x Science Affinity Group Meeting –Fungi: Friends and Foes

This presentation will introduce fungi from two disparate ends of the spectrum of the fungal kingdom. On one end, the macroscopic mushroom forming members that beneficially interact with tree roots to ensure tree health. On the other, a microscopic group of zoospore formers that include members who devastated amphibian populations. Both groups have diverse forms, structures and functions that are worthy of consideration from the perspective of the intersection of textiles and science.

 

 

Peter Avis, PhD, is a cooperating associate professor with the School of Ecology and Biology at the University of Maine and associate professor of Biology at Indiana University Northwest. Prior, he conducted post-doctoral studies at the Field Museum of Natural History. His PhD is from Minnesota. He teaches courses in intro bio, mycology, evolution, molecular biology among other courses. His research falls into three general categories: Fungal ecology and evolution, molecular methodology for the study of fungi, and the use of environmental DNA in biomonitoring.

 

 

Inspired by the fundamental traits and properties that make up the micro and macro structures of textiles– its fiber spin, cloth form, shape, and function– we are gathering to identify overlapping themes that lead to innovative solutions in technology, sciences, engineering and textile specialties. The idea is to share and discuss our own work such that we can discover and develop projects based on that intersection of knowledge and exploration. From this exploration we will discover previously unidentified mutual exposures in textiles that may lead to the possibility of new works of benefit through functional, technical and artistic approaches.  It is in the blend of disciplines that the most innovative, pleasing and relevant work resides and we believe that these discoveries lie in the intersection of disciplines.