Fragments of extinction
Fragments of Extinction is an ENVIRONMENTAL SOUND-ART PROJECT, which explores the eco-acoustic complexity of the remaining intact equatorial forests. Crossing boundaries between bioacoustics, acoustic ecology, electroacoustic technology and music composition, the project aims to reveal the ordered structures of NATURE’S SONIC HABITATS, define a possible model of compositional integration, and make the outcome accessible to audiences to foster awareness on the current SIXTH MASS EXTINCTION.
If we consider that the most recent International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) projections indicate that half of the planet’s original species (the great majority of them never even known to science) will be extinct by the end of this century, we also understand the urgency of recording sound samples of these diverse and unique, yet fragile, ecosystems: the remnants of nature’s original ‘ORGANIZED SOUNDSCAPES.’
Acoustic Biodiversity of the World’s Primary Equatorial Rainforests
Project protected by SIAE 2005, © 2011, RPGOP 2012, Patent 2013.
Field recording expeditions carried out in 3 representative areas of primary equatorial rainforest
pilot project: Amazon 2002
first trip (full technology): Africa 2008
last trips: Borneo 2010 and 2012
next trip: Ecuador 2014
Why these areas ?
The biome of equatorial forest integrates the most complex ecosystems on Earth.
Here the circadian cycles are regular and uniform (equator).
These are the most fragile ecosystems where the rate of extinction is higher.
Why the soundscape?
The order and equilibrium of these ecosystems is surprisingly evident in their sonic behaviour.
These soundscapes are mostly unknown; many of them can only be heard by placing autonomous microphone systems.
Soundscape is an underestimated imprint of natural ecosystems’ dynamics.
Why eco-acoustic music?
Sound-art can contribute to the process of awareness on the ‘sixth mass extinction.’ Wide-spread awareness of the public can influence governments decisions toward faster global conservation policies.
Currently there are no projects aiming to portray this eco-acoustic complexity.
And in few decades these recordings will constitute important fragments of an original acoustic heritage irreversebly degradated.
CROSS-DISCIPLINARY
and multi-pourpose APPROACH
Scientific research
(primary ecosystems’ bio-acoustics and soundscape ecology)
Technology innovation
(unique 3D-audio recording and reproduction systems, sensors-driven sound synthesis)
Environmental communication and education
(tropical rainforest deforestation, bio-diversity crisis).
Sound-art
(eco-acoustic composition, 360° spectrogram visualizations)
Project’s uniqueness and cultural reach
Project work-flow
