Vicki Hallett & Hippopotamus. Mabolel Rock, South Africa

Image Credit: Barbara Ellison

Artist Talk - Three case studies of sound art projects in Australia

Through three case studies of sound art projects in Australia, I will reveal my compositional process and demonstrate a unique approach to acoustic ecology, science-based resources, cultural heritage and music performance that connects with the sounds of the natural environment to create innovative and informative performances and installations. The exploration covers the site of the Barwon River and Barwon Estuary to a collaborative installation where the public were invited to immerse themselves within images and sounds of the You Yangs, a regional Australian landscape, highlighting anthropogenic sounds and encouraging future sound walk visits; and a museum sound installation created using the sounds recorded at Mt Rothwell Biodiversity Interpretation Centre highlighting species living in the unique and rare native grasslands with limited feral animal interference. All three case studies focus on the acoustic ecology of a particular environment allowing audiences to hear sounds whether they be anthropogenic or wildlife-based in an “eco-acoustic composition” (Monacchi 2016) and brings wider attention and awareness to endangered species and sounds often beyond our usual scope, highlighting the urgency of environmental action and showing the possible value of environmental sound art in a live performance context. Presentations stressing the link between conservation, science, the arts, humanity and nature are designed to encourage listeners to think more deeply about their relationship to the environment and that sense of interconnection. The case studies entwine traditional cultural consultation, music, acoustic ecology, science, conservation awareness and public immersion in sonic experiences.

http://www.vickihallett.com/