In my artistic work, I examine the acoustic nature of our everyday environment. My focus is on the relationship between humans and their environment, especially in terms of sound ecology. For the exhibition "Unter den Linden" I am developing the sound art project "The Hearing Trees", in which the topic of the changing sound environment is explored from the perspective of the trees. Visitors experience the soundscape of humans and trees through a site-specific sound installation. The work creates a connection to one's own sound environment in the context of the acoustic impact of the changing environment.

 

Especially in the age of the Anthropocene, it is desirable that the humanistic separation of nature and culture dissolves. Climate change is increasing our awareness of the connections between the circumstances surrounding us. Ultimately, all living things are forced to adapt to the rapidly changing circumstances. The mutual dependence is becoming ever clearer. The changes are becoming ever more noticeable and, above all, audible. Humans are only one component in the soundscape.

 

The tree plays an essential role in our lives. It is an important raw material and a regenerative energy source. The tree is also a primordial symbol for the creation and continuation of life on this planet. Trees are therefore an important basis for life for many living creatures. They provide protection and food. They are steadfast and adapt to external influences at their own pace. The tree has also always played an important role in the socio-cultural and spiritual spheres. For me, it is a prime example of the interaction between different species and the adaptability and acceptance of ecological conditions.

 

In the sound installation, the stories of the old linden tree are reproduced audibly in an abstract, fictional and somewhat futuristic story. The installation reflects living beings and sounds that are, were or will be present in the tree's life. The sound carpet is an interpretation of how a tree hears/could hear. A time-lapse of the sound serves as a translation tool for our perception. A tree grows slowly, so this delay is my interpretation of the auditory translation of how a tree perceives the acoustic events.

It has been scientifically proven that plants react to frequencies, communicate and create their own sounds. The exchange via molecules, bacteria and fungal structures, through impulses and signals, has a different temporality than our nervous system. This served as a source of inspiration for the composition of "The Hearing Trees". The composition thus combines the auditory perception of the environment by us humans with the sound interpretation of a tree.

 

The project is supported by: