Mushroom: A study of Coprinopsis Lagopus fungi :: Jere Kittle photography and visual arts

Artspace Gallery, 2016 Members' Biennial Exhibition.

Mushroom:
A study of Coprinopsis Lagopus fungi
(Common name: hare's foot inkcap)

Inspired by nature and drawn to its poetic geometries and arresting designs, I find that isolating the imagery from its recognizable form produces startling compositions with uncommon glimpses into the structure and beauty of the natural world.

These photographs of inkcaps were taken over a five-month period. Most of them focus on the gilled undersides of the mushrooms at different stages in their 24-hour, above-ground lifecycle and in varying light and atmospheric conditions.

The black inky substance causes decomposition of the caps and aids in the dispersion of spores – a process of deliquescence. The ink forms initially on the outer edges of the caps and creates outlines along the gills. The edges mutate as the caps curl and shrivel into decay.