MANTIS AZUL

I create access points of connection to living systems by using anchor points of the human experience such as nostalgia, and grief.

Most importantly, my art is an experiment. A will to try and understand what I am ultimately unsure about. To connect to what I fear and feel so deeply for.

The majority of my work has geared towards independent scientific research grounded in accessibility, community science and craft. My main collaborators are Blue Elf Cup, and Ganorderma Sessile.

Upcoming Events

MYCOMEMORIA: A Mycelium Workshop by Mantis Harper-Blanco and Rachel Rusk hosted at the Baltimore Underground Science Space
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/myco-memoria-tickets-1981531708682

IMAGINING OTHERWISE: An Integrated Future by Alberto Martinez Garaulet and Mantis Harper-Blanco hosted by MICAxMcDonogh School.

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Pit Fire and Fruiting Bodies Experiment

2023

Earthenware, Oyster Fruiting Bodies, Seaweed, Curry, Cheesecloth, Wax seal

Process

By using the atmospheric qualities of the pitfire kiln, I was able to create beautiful imagery and silhouettes of Oyster Mushrooms onto ceramic ware. I soaked Oyster fruiting in copper carbonate for one hour. Once done, I pressed them into the interior of the plate and as a result of the chemical reactions in the kiln, the fruiting bodies left a gentle impression against the fired earthenware.