Join Dr. Patricia Kaishian, Curator of Mycology at the New York State Museum, for an immersive gallery tour of Outcasts: Mary Banning’s World of Mushrooms. This exhibition highlights the fascinating life and work of Mary Elizabeth Banning, one of the first American mycologists, who defied the social and scientific barriers of her time to make significant contributions to the study of fungi.
As Dr. Kaishian walks you through the exhibit, you'll discover Banning’s extraordinary illustrations and letters, her pioneering research on mushrooms, and the historical context in which she worked. Learn how fungi—often seen as "outcasts" in the natural world—were embraced by outcast scientists like Banning, who defied expectations to make lasting contributions to science. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the often-overlooked world of fungi and celebrate the legacy of a remarkable woman scientist.
