Bioluminescent Fungi

Bioluminescent Fungi

By artist: Ingrid Bartkowiak

Watercolour on paper. 31 x 31 x 2 cm

Bioluminescence is a natural phenomenon observed at night where certain types of mushrooms, such as the Ghost Mushroom (Omphalotus nidiformis), glow in the dark. They exude a pale green hue that comes up especially well when photographed over a long exposure. The exact function of this glow is still somewhat of a mystery. I’ve personally seen this phenomena at Bellthorpe National Park, and a family member once spotted glowing fungi on Mt Coot-tha!

About the artist.

Ingrid is an artist and illustrator who works primarily in watercolour. Her hand painted work features flora, fauna and fungi. Ingrid has a fascination with all things small and intricate, from tufts of moss on a footpath to the fungi sprouting from a wombat dropping. Her work encompasses commercial licensing projects, personal commissions, and mindfully made giftware. Her practice has a focus on environmental education combined with whimsy, to create works that spark joy and curiosity.

Collection or delivery.

This item is part of the Plant Empire Garden Art Exhibition, on display at Plant Empire from 17 October - 22 November 2026. Exhibition items are available for sale in person or online. In the unlikely event that a customer purchases the item in-store at the same time as it is sold online, we will refund the online purchase - thank you in advance for your understanding if this situation does occur. Exhibition pieces will be available for collection in-store or delivered from 23 November: to collect your item in person, please select the 'in-store pickup' option at checkout; or to have it delivered, please select either the Australia Post or courier option (Brisbane only) at checkout and your delivery fee will be calculated automatically.