Fragments of Fungi
Design, develop an immersive VR experience that reveals the hidden world of mycelium networks, blending virtual and physical environments to facilitate a deeper connection with nature.
ROLE:
Multisensory Experience Lab
CLIENT:
Designer, developer, workshop facilitator
TECHNOLOGIES USED:
Blender, Unity, FMOD
Problem
The ecological importance of fungi and the complexity of mycelial networks are often overlooked, especially in urban environments. The challenge was not only to educate the public about these hidden systems but to create an experience that would integrate virtual reality (VR) as part of a larger, holistic interaction with nature, moving beyond VR as a stand-alone medium.
Research
The project explored how VR could be used as a tool to enhance real-world experiences rather than exist in isolation. By combining VR with the physical environment of a forest setting, the goal was to evoke a deeper emotional connection and stimulate dialogue about the ecological role of fungi. Co-design workshops and participatory sessions informed the project’s design, ensuring that the experience was both engaging and educational. Research focused on how VR could serve as a bridge between the virtual and physical worlds, creating a cohesive, sensory-driven journey that enhanced participants' understanding and emotional connection to nature.
Solution
The Fragments of Fungi project developed an immersive VR experience that allowed participants to explore the invisible world of mycelium networks within a real forest setting. The experience combined VR with physical surroundings, integrating sensory stimuli such as visuals, soundscapes, and natural elements to create a unified, emotional journey. The VR component was not a stand-alone feature, but a tool that complemented the forest environment, guiding participants through a narrative that emphasized the ecological significance of fungi. Feedback from workshops demonstrated that this holistic approach effectively sparked meaningful conversations and deepened participants' emotional engagement, showcasing VR’s potential as part of a broader, nature-connected experience.