Mushrooms in Paris
In an industry that produces an estimated 92 million tons of textile waste every year, the exhibition explores ways in which this waste can be lessened. By leaning into vintage as a trend unto itself, the pieces consult how regeneration can serve as a convincing antithesis to overproduction. The project began during the pandemic, the thrust of the work taking place in Murmaid’s female-driven atelier in the heart of Paris, where, as the project’s creative director, she turned old jeans, zippers, hoodies, buttons, and other warehouse throw-aways into fresh new items — quilted coats, capes fabric display, lounge furniture, and more. “We were adamant, we don’t want to add extra waste into the fashion industry” says Romanelli.
Through the blending of earthy colors with psychedelic hues that pop, the exhibit reflects the noetic truth that unity can be found in the most disparate of things, and, in this case, using thread to eliminate the textural degrees of separation. The work is accompanied by a soundscape made by singer-songwriter and producer James Faunterloy, adding a cosmic dimension to the material sculptures that are scattered throughout the gallery.
As we examine the systems that govern the most basic parts of existence — our food, our medicine, our clothing, and the cycles defining their existence — through art, we're able to imagine and engage with a better world. One that values connection, sustainability, creativity — and which honors the key components at the center of it all. In this case... mushrooms.
