Solveig

Solveig is an ecosystem of memory, ice and flux, inspired by the fugitive terrain of Antarctica

Three musicians play in Solveig. Every sound they make is collected in a system of infinite sustain, dispersed via elegant sound design. Large tracts of their materials are improvised, textural, spare. From time to time, their sounds converge into fleeting, austere melodies, then unravel back into undulating patterns.

Haunting colour spectrums move slowly across a canopy of holographic gauze, almost coalescing into occasional images, before dispersing once more into light.

The ‘consciousness’ driving Solveig — computerised and invisible to audiences — assimilates acoustic and manipulated sound, light, image and scientific and phenomenological information collected from a 12-month cycle on Antarctica.

Solveig illuminates the interconnectedness of all things, and the cumulative effects of apparently small actions. Solveig aims to increase empathy with our ecosystem by creating an experience that draws people into a personal connection with Antarctica. It highlights our collective complicity in this fragile wilderness’ endangerment, and ways we can change the trajectory of a warming world.

Genevieve Lacey — contrabass, co-composer, concept
Amos Gebhardt — visual art
Paul Grabowsky — piano, co-composer
William Barton — didgeridoo, voice, co-composer
Ruth Little — groundwork
Max de Wardener — electronics, co-composer
Jim Atkins — sound design
David Haynes — technical production
Marianne Lumholdt — web design
Katrina Duncan — impact producer

In collaboration with Steven Chown, Professor of Biological Sciences and President of the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research.

Solveig is produced by Martel Ollerenshaw under the banner of Arts & Parts Ltd.