From Another Kingdom: Discover the Magic of Mushrooms at the Botanics

From Another Kingdom is the first major exhibition in the UK to focus on the fascinating world of fungi. It is being staged at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) until 21 November and then goes on tour. The interactive exhibition reveals the intimate details of fungi in a way they have never been shown before, challenging misconceptions about this mysterious species to show how fungi are vital to the survival of life on Earth. The temporary exhibition space at the Garden’s John Hope Gateway has been transformed into a labyrinth of themed spaces where visitors hear stories about fungal diversity, myths and magic, fungi disease and medicine, and the role fungi play in ecosystems and recycling. The exhibition includes film, sound-scapes, incredible models and interactive exhibits.

Highlights include a forest of super-sized toadstools, glow-in-the-dark mushrooms and a version of Russian roulette involving deadly poisonous fungi. Visitors can follow Alice in Wonderland down the rabbit hole, go back in time to the psychedelic era and take the opportunity to make a medical diagnosis using X-rays.

The exhibition and events programme covers all aspects of the world of fungi but there is a strong emphasis on the relationship between people and fungi. Ian Edwards, Head of exhibitions at RBGE commented: “Whether you regard fungi as friends or foe, if you thought they were curious but benign organisms, prepare to have your perceptions changed: From Another Kingdom will show how fungi are essential to all life on the planet!”

To accompany From Another Kingdom – The Amazing World of Fungi, RBGE has published a new beautifully illustrated book of the same title.

Admission to the Garden and John Hope Gateway is free. The audio guide for the exhibition is available for hire (£2.50 adults and £1.50 concessions).

For further information, please contact Alice Kelpie on 0131 248 2925 or Sandra Donnelly on 0131 248 1037