We Are Mushrooms

In the “We Are Mushrooms” series, Tbileli turns his gaze toward the natural world to explore themes of growth, transformation, and the unexpected strength found in nature’s humble forms. Mushrooms—as both symbols of decay and regeneration—embody the very essence of metamorphosis. They are among the largest organisms in nature and rank as some of the oldest living entities, their ancient networks interweaving through the fabric of the Earth. Beyond their biological marvel, mushrooms are portrayed as gateways to alternate realities. They open a passage to the fourth dimension—a realm where conventional perception dissolves and deeper layers of creativity emerge. Drawing on ideas reminiscent of those explored in works like Stoned ape, the series suggests that these mysterious fungi may have even played a role in the dawning of human creativity. They are seen as catalysts that have inspired profound creative leaps, perhaps igniting the spark that set humanity on a path of exploration, innovation, and transcendent insight. The layered textures and richly saturated pigments of each painting serve as a visual ode to nature’s cyclical destiny. Each work echoes the organic arrangement of spores and mycelium networks, evoking the transformative energy of life emerging from darkness. Tbileli departs, in part, from his technique of meticulously multilayered art to create more stripped-down pieces that connect the viewer directly to nature and its evolutionary narrative. While his compositions mostly utilize a minimal color palette, a strong contrasting hue draws the subjects to the forefront, underscoring the dynamic interplay between order and spontaneity. These paintings invite the viewer not only to contemplate the physicality of nature but also to delve into its deeper, metaphorical resonance—a reminder that growth, resilience, and transformation are the pillars of our existence. As Sergo stated in this mini-series, he wanted to explore the magical kingdom of mushrooms that act as aggregators of change and transformation. Serving as hidden gems scattered throughout nature, mushrooms beckon us to look beyond the visible, inviting us into fantastic realms where creativity blossoms and where the very beginnings of humanity might be reimagined.