The Blizzard

Background The Blizzard draws on the eco acoustic work of composers who observe and record atmospheric phenomena to reveal different forces and behaviours, as well as the research of Professor Craig Martin and his study of the global history of wind. Eco acoustics is an emerging interdisciplinary science that investigates natural and anthropogenic sounds and their relationship with the environment over a wide range of study scales, both spatial and temporal, including populations, communities, and landscapes. As technology advances and becomes less costly, Eco Acoustics is becoming an increasingly important remote-sensing tool with which it is possible to analyse massive acoustic data sets and quickly predict and/or evaluate the effects of climate change on the environment. Contribution The Blizzard is a composition solely comprising recordings of the presence and effects of high velocity katabatic wind recorded in Eastern Antarctica. The composition draws on hundreds of hours of field recordings to express an immersive and visceral experience of the extreme forces transforming our planet. Life on remote research stations is progressively resembling the broader contemporary experience, in which strict protocols are used to govern and preserve life. The resilient communities who live and work in these places have learnt how to co-exist with an increasingly hostile environment. It is within this framework that this project posits Antarctica as a place that has much to teach us. Significance The Blizzard was selected as one of the featured works that was presented at The Capitol as part of NGV Melbourne Design Week. The composition was subsequently acquired by the NGV for their permanent collection. The fieldwork that underpins the project is supported by two Australian Antarctic Territory Arts Fellowships.