April

Pohorje

This April, a truly special research and artistic journey will begin on Pohorje, as we will host the renowned mycologist Katarina Apostolides from 4 to 27 April 2025. Katarina connected her life path with mushrooms early on, and her professional expertise is reflected in her title as a certified identifier (determinator) and independent consultant—earned through years of intensive training and active involvement in numerous mycological societies. This time, her passion for mycology will be directed toward the mid-mountain landscape of Pohorje, where she will focus on researching and mapping spring fungi. Her visit will not be scientific in nature alone: it will also serve as a bridge between natural sciences, contemporary technology, and intermedia art, as fungi are increasingly recognised today as key building blocks of the future.

During her stay, Katarina will highlight the extraordinary importance of fungi, which in today’s world go far beyond the role of “forest produce.” We will learn how mycelium is transforming biotechnology and ecological construction, where it is used as a sustainable and biodegradable material, while in intermedia art it opens questions about nature’s communication networks and humanity’s impact on ecosystems. For everyone who would like to experience this fascinating world up close, we will organise two public workshops:

  • 5 April 2025 at 10:00 AM at Ruška koča
  • 26 April 2025 at 10:00 AM at Ruška koča

At these gatherings, expert knowledge will intertwine with direct experience of nature, giving participants a deeper insight into ecological balance and the importance of fungi for the survival of our planet. Participation in both workshops is free of charge; please register in advance at epeka@epeka.si.

A special part of the residency will also be dedicated to connecting with other creators, which is why we are also opening a call for artists who would like to collaborate with Katarina in co-creating new artistic visions.

You can apply with your CV and a short presentation of the project you would like to develop by emailing epeka@epeka.si. We can also offer all interested applicants one free overnight stay at Areh in Ruška koča, surrounded by Pohorje forests, where—through direct dialogue with the mycologist—they can further develop projects addressing ecological themes and the role of humans in the natural environment.

Thank you to the staff of Ruška koča for enabling this collaboration and for the use of their premises.