2022
Arcylic on Canvas
16 inch x 20 inch
framed
An ethereal painting centered on the Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus), depicted with delicate white tendrils against a vibrant teal-green background. The central fungus, renowned for its remarkable neuroprotective properties and potential to stimulate nerve growth factor production, is rendered in soft ivory tones that radiate healing energy.
Surrounding the Lion’s Mane are concentric rings of stylized Turkey Tail mushrooms (Trametes versicolor) with their characteristic blue-brown bands. Turkey Tail is celebrated for its potent immune-modulating polysaccharides and anti-cancer properties, particularly PSK and PSP compounds which have been extensively studied in oncology.
Bold red and yellow curved forms anchor the corners, complementing the Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lingzhi) elements. Reishi, often called the “mushroom of immortality” in traditional Chinese medicine, contains triterpenes and beta-glucans that support immune function, reduce inflammation, and may help combat fatigue and depression.
Radiating blue mycelium lines create a network effect that mimics brain pathways, symbolizing how these fungi support neurological health. The painting’s mandala-like structure speaks to the interconnectedness of these healing organisms and their symbiotic relationship with human wellness, inviting viewers to contemplate the ancient wisdom of fungal medicine that modern science is only beginning to understand.
