Metabolizing the stone and concrete walls of Stauffer Library are a large variety of crustose, foliose and fruticose lichen. These species overlap, entangle and make space for each other.

What might they teach us about reciprocity and exchange? How can we coexist symbiotically with each other, more-than-human organisms, and our institutions? What can we learn about respecting boundaries?






It's easy to focus only on  the larger, brighter foliose lichen, but if you slow down and adjust your gaze, you will begin to notice all of the small crustose lichen in the margins.

What are the advantages of taking up less space? Of embracing the margins?





At first glance, one might not notice the grey lichen which blend easily into the colour and texture of the stone they metabolize.

What are the advantages to "operating under the radar"? How might we operate from both within and outside of the institution?










Lichen has a tendency to occupy the cracks, corners and margins of spaces/structures. 

How might these overlooked areas be reconsidered as fruitful ground for gathering?