Drawing Connections between Trees and Fungi. Draw the connections between trees and fungi using the beautiful colours of soft pastels.
Created by Kassandra Bossell
Workshop Description
Participants explore and discuss the dynamics of mutualistic association between trees and mycorrhizal fungi. Using chalk pastels, we will draw the main trunks of two or more trees and then extend branches up to a shared canopy and roots down to meet the shared mycorrhizal network. Emphasis is placed on using varied techniques and developing your personal style. This workshop provides an opportunity to develop a more creative and exploratory approach for beginners and intermediate students who wish to develop expression through colour, composition dynamics and quality of line.
Mycorrhizae are symbiotic relationships that form between fungi and plants. The fungi colonize the root system of a host plant, providing increased water and nutrient absorption capabilities while the plant provides the fungus with carbohydrates formed from photosynthesis. Mycorrhizae also offer the host plant increased protection against certain pathogens. Ectomycorrhizal fungi usually form large amounts of mycelia that grow from the tip of the plant roots (the fungal sheath) out into the soil in search of nutrients. Large groupings of mycelia are also found at a distance from the host plant. These additional mycelia are connected to the fungal sheath by structures called rhizomorphs.
At the end of the course the participant will be able to
- Draw utilizing soft pastels
- Demonstrate several mark making techniques.