GOLDEN OYSTER

Entanglement, a word that can refer to the inter and intra communication of species of fungus and with trees. Quantum Entanglement, the odd phenomena of subatomic particles in which the particles appear to be concerned and react together, in unison, with information traveling simultaneously across a mesh of particles. This entanglement forms the basis of how semiconductors operate. This tunneling of electrons through silica occurs magically, it still baffles scientist. We take it for granted. Entanglement in the global economy, materials mined on others land, smelted in someone else backyard, shipped across the ocean by nameless beings. I piece together these materials to create something on my side of the pond.

What is utopia? Who is for? Is it for us, plural, humans? Are we excluding other kingdoms because we view them as lesser? I am interested in reflection on my works use of excavated materials, most often metal. Tin, Lead, and Copper structures holding on to Aluminum-Gallium photovoltaic diodes. I do not know where exactly these spools of wire come from, but I consume them, nonetheless.

Gold represents this excess, as it often signifies opulence and luxury. A golden light flows along an electric squiggle suspended in the air, drawing you in, leading you deeper into wonderland. Fungal forms, made from pleurotus ostreatus (oyster mushrooms), with their own light armature, rest in a corner. Efforts in bioengineering are looking to create alternatives to open-pit mining, one alternative being a fungus that sequester gold in their mycelium that is readily acquired. I like to believe my mushrooms are searching for gold. What does it mean to ʻengineerʼ a life to do work for you only to kill it to gain its contents?

Opulence is created at the expense of others.