In this episode of Art &, we go on a field trip—literally and metaphorically—with synthetic biologist Drew Endy and artist-mycologist Phil Ross, founder of the Open Fung initiative. What starts as a visit to a mushroom farm turns into a deeper conversation about how fungi could transform the way we think about materials, sustainability, and the role of interdisciplinary collaboration.

From building leather-like textiles from mycelium to reimagining how bioengineering can be more democratic, Drew and Phil explore how fungi offer more than just a biological solution—they offer a cultural shift. Together, they show how artists and scientists can work side-by-side to prototype more ethical, regenerative, and connected futures.

Featured Guests: Phil Ross & Drew Endy

Follow Stanford Arts on Instagram and YouTube for more stories and updates.

Credits

Host: Ellen Oh

Creator/Producer/Editor: Taylor Jones

Production Support: Edi Dai

Sound Designer and Mix Engineer: Chase Everett

Theme song and Music: Juana Izuzquiza

Executive Producers: Ellen Oh and Anne Shulock

Artwork: Connie Ko

Special thanks to Deborah Cullinan, Stanford Vice President for the Arts