Atmospheric listening instruments: Art and science technologies for attuning to our natural environments

Abstract

This article introduces a curated selection of artistic instrument-based practices centred around listening to geophonic and biophonic aspects of the natural soundscape. Featured artists, including Ariel Guzik (Nereida), Joyce Hinterding and David Haines (Earthstar), Pauline Oliveros (Echoes from the Moon), Nicolas Montgermont (Axis Mvndi) and Juan Duarte (Augury), employ instrumental approaches to engage with natural environments. The article delves into the role of technology in mediating environmental awareness, establishing connections with key concepts such as attunement, resonance and techno-embodiment. The exploration unfolds as a genealogy of art and science instrument-based practices unified by the overarching idea of utilizing technologies to expand human sensorium, primarily through sound. The practices examined advocate for ecocentrism, presenting it as a strategic approach to cultivating empathy towards natural environments by acknowledging nature as an independent entity. Through instrumental relations, these practices enable humans to attune to the profound, otherwise imperceptible voice of nature, resonating beyond the confines of human language.