Shot from Fungal Entanglement. | © Helga Griffiths
"A radio interview with Professor Hans-Peter Grossart inspired me to embark on a journey of discovery into the hidden world of fungi," said Helga Griffiths. She recognised an artistic connection between the growth of fungal networks and the formation of neuronal networks in the human brain, despite them seemingly having nothing in common. In her video project, she combines high-resolution images of aquatic fungi with AI-generated elements, drawing parallels with neuronal networks and natural matter cycles.
Entitled Fungal Entanglement, the result was presented to the public for the first time at the German Pavilion at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, where it was very well received. Invitations to international biennials and festivals soon followed.
The visual artwork, created by Helga Griffiths and cameraman Dr Rudolf Diesel, is accompanied by a soundscape by composer Johannes S. Sistermanns. “By combining instrumental and electronic sounds, we aim to provide emotional access to a world that is usually hidden from the human eye,” explained the artist. The result is a sensory experience that combines science, technology, and art.
Griffiths emphasised that the collaborative process with the scientists is also an integral part of the artwork. This is precisely why the collaboration will continue after the film. She is currently working with Hans-Peter Grossart's team to develop an appropriate fragrance.
Grossart is also delighted with this unusual collaboration, which reveals the hidden. "Most people don't even know that aquatic fungi exist. Even in our research, we are still in the early stages," he said. "But the deeper we dive, the clearer their importance becomes – for nutrient cycles, biodiversity, and perhaps even technical innovations of the future."
Fungal Entanglement invites us to reconsider the role of these fascinating microorganisms: as ecologically significant network architects and as a source of artistic inspiration.
