As part of the Edible Utopia project at Somerset House we are growing mushrooms in our “coalholes” around the courtyard. A number of these small alcoves originally used for housing coal, then for general storage have been converted into the perfect environment in which to grow mushrooms. Using waste coffee grounds from our on-site café’s as nutrients we nurture the mycelium from spawn to fruit in an organic closed-loop eco system as an example of sustainable growing in the city centre.
Coinciding with the British Mycological Society’s UK Fungus Day join our mycologist-in-residence Darren Springer for hands-on workshops exploring the unique qualities of mushrooms and mycelium, the crucial living network that supports our growing environments. This workshop will give you the chance to learn more about the processes behind mushroom growth, the conditions they need to thrive and take a look at our in-house fungi crop.
The workshop will see participants inoculate their own oyster mushroom spawn to take away and nurture at home.
The workshops will be accompanied by a display of photographs taken by Accumulate as part of a collaborative project with Edible Utopia at Somerset House which will be accessible to the public during the workshop times.
Darren Springer is Edible Utopia’s mycologist-in-residence. Alongside leading the mushroom growing and workshops at Somerset House Darren regularly teaches and talks across Europe.
Making Mushrooms: Family Workshop
This session is designed for one adult and one child aged 6+ working together. The workshop will not be especially messy and gloves will be provided but please bear in mind we will be working with sensitive materials under lab-like conditions.
Allergy Notice: Please be aware that some of the materials used will contain wheat.
Making Mushrooms: Adult Workshop
This session is designed for adults, no previous experience or expertise necessary!
Allergy Notice: Please be aware that some of the materials used will contain wheat.
