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Living Gold (2023 – 2024)

Research Group: Situated Art, Design and Technology

Our research project “Living Gold” explored the application of mycelium material in goldsmithing, igniting inspiration and promoting new possibilities for bio-based design. Mycelium, nature’s hidden architect, holds immense potential for creativity and environmental consciousness. By tapping into this abundant resource, we aimed to reshape the boundaries of jewellery creation.

Mycelium is an excellent material for product design due to its versatility, sustainability, and unique properties. It is renewable, biobased, and can be moulded into various shapes. Its strength, lightweight nature and ability to be grown in desired forms make it ideal for innovative and eco-friendly product designs. Unfortunately, the qualities and applications of mycelium material are not universally known. By implementing mycelium material in goldsmithing each piece becomes a testament to the beauty and elegance found within our symbiotic relationship with the environment.

Jewellery has long held anthropological importance, representing personal expression, milestones, status, culture and beauty. By incorporating mycelium into goldsmithing, we infuse jewellery with a deeper connection to nature. Celebrating the wonders of nature with every gleaming creation.

Researcher Simone van den Broek explored two methods for incorporating mycelium material in goldsmithing. The first method explored the possibilities of using mycelium material in the way that gemstones traditionally are set into a piece of precious metal. The second method utilized the growing capabilities of mycelium by growing it directly onto a jewellery design. By documenting the process from mycelium inoculation to a wearable jewellery design, we embarked on a transformative journey where we aimed to reshape the way we view mycelium one enchanting piece of jewellery at a time.

 

Key findings

Throughout the project, several key findings emerged. For example, mycelium grows more effectively when directly applied to jewelry pieces rather than as separate elements. Effective hydration and incubation methods were developed, ensuring the mycelium remains viable during the creation process. These findings have culminated in the production of five necklaces and two pairs of earrings, currently exhibited at St. Joost Den Boscharrow.

 

Exhibitions and publications

Simone’s work has been showcased at several events, including the ‘For Love of the World’ Festival at TU Delftarrow and the National Silver Day in Schoonhoven (video)arrow, where she participated in the Silver Challengearrow.

Additionally, the entire collection will be presented during the Dutch Design Week 2024 at Sectie-C. Currently, Simone is preparing a paper for publication in The Journal of Jewellery Research, which will further disseminate the insights and outcomes of the “Living Gold” project.

 

Educational impact

Three students conducted graduation projects related to this research, and the project has also hosted a visit from design student Liselot Roijakkers from TU Delft. With this, the project fostered a new generation of designers interested in sustainable materials.

Living gold has been granted a KIEM GoCI by Nationaal Regieorgaan Praktijkgericht Onderzoek SIA and works together with Maarten Versteeg from industry partner Brech.

‘The ultimate goal is to provide people with the information, skills and tools that enable them to improve the quality of their daily lives.’

Simone van den Broek is a researcher within the Situated Art, Design and Technology research group, and a tutor for the Communication & Multimedia Design programme at Avans University of Applied Sciences in Den Bosch. 

Simone van den Broek arrow

Publications

Van den Broek, S. (2024, October) Levend Goud, A duo exhibition between Do Collection and Simone van den Broekarrow. Mycelium jewellery exhibition, Dutch Design Week

Van den Broek, S. (2024, May) Ondergrondse symfonie, Myceliumarrow. Mycelium necklace for the Silver Challenge, Nationale Zilverdag

Research Group: Situated Art, Design and Technology

Living in cities developed around data and acting within the inscrutable structure of our techno-society demands art and design that can help understand how we relate to these rapidly changing surroundings and to reflect on that relationship. The research group Situated Art, Design and Technology responds to this exigency by fostering a situated turn in art and design through a diverse portfolio of interdisciplinary research projects in partnership with academic and cultural partners, as well as with government and industry.

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