Parodos
Augury: Resonant Atmospheres
10 11–11 10
We invite you to the opening of Juan Duarte’s project “Augury: Resonant Atmospheres“ on October 11 at 5.30 p.m. at the Exhibition Hall of the Klaipėda Culture Communication Center (Dižioji Vandens St. 2). The exhibition will be on display until November 10.
This installation delves into the interplay between environmental sensor stations and the ancient divinatory practice of Augury, where the behavior of birds was closely observed to predict seasonal changes. Inspired by this tradition, the installation employs cutting-edge sensor technology to create soundscapes that resonate with the atmosphere, translating data and signals from the surrounding weather into immersive auditory experiences. Using meteorological sensors as instruments, the installation captures the subtle dynamics of wind motion, air pressure, and light, crafting sound and light compositions that transcend the limits of human perception and deepen our connection to the natural environment.
Central to the installation is the integration of obsidian artifacts, which activate a fog machine and evoke the Aztec divinatory ritual of the Smoking Mirror (Tezcatlipoca). These obsidian mirrors, symbolic of the link between the material and spiritual worlds, were historically used for divination, allowing individuals to perceive reflections of themselves and the environment, particularly in weather predictions. By touching each stone and mirror, participants can access the unique sounds generated by various sensor stations outside the gallery.
Central to the installation is the integration of obsidian artifacts, which activate a fog machine and evoke the Aztec divinatory ritual of the Smoking Mirror (Tezcatlipoca). These obsidian mirrors, symbolic of the link between the material and spiritual worlds, were historically used for divination, allowing individuals to perceive reflections of themselves and the environment, particularly in weather predictions. By touching each stone and mirror, participants can access the unique sounds generated by various sensor stations outside the gallery.
In addition, the installation features two interactive, touch-sensitive interfaces modeled after ancient instruments—the *Tubo Cochleato* and the Aeolian Harp, conceived by Athanasius Kircher in the 17th century. These interfaces enrich the experience by allowing the audience to engage with contemporary interpretations of these historical instruments, further bridging the gap between past and present, natural and technological, human and environmental.
Credits:
This exhibition was produced and exhibited with funding from Taike Arts Promotion Centre Finland, Frame Finland, Nordic Culture Point and Culture Moves Europe.
Acknowledgement:
The former version of this work was produced at the RIXC Centre for New Media Culture with received funding for residential visits from the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Culture to establish the project “RIXC Art Science Residencies”.
Biography
Juan Duarte Regino, born in Mexico City and currently based in Helsinki, is a distinguished artist-researcher specializing in Environmental Sound. His work intricately explores the interplay between atmosphere, listening, and the profound concept of attunement. Central to his research is investigating the symbiotic relationship between nature and technology, utilizing environmental sound as a medium to create resonant artifacts that capture and reflect atmospheric energies. Through his innovative approach, Duarte Regino proposes diversified technologies that enhance our ability to attune to the natural world, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and fostering a deeper understanding of the environment’s complex relationship with technology.
As a multimedia artist, Duarte Regino’s work has been featured on numerous international platforms, including prestigious events like the International Symposium on Electronic Arts (ISEA), Media Art Histories, and the World Forum for Acoustic Ecology. His contributions to the field have been recognized globally, with his art being exhibited in esteemed venues such as PACT Zollverein, Medialab Matadero, Valssaamo-Cable Factory, Röda Sten Konsthall, and the Goethe Institute in Beijing.
Duarte Regino has participated in various artist residencies, including the Lofoten Sound Art Symposium, Binaural-Nodar, IAMAS, Titanik Gallery, Ujazdowski Centre for Contemporary Art, and Nida Art Colony. His collaborative projects with renowned artists such as AGF, IC98, and Laura Beloff further highlight his versatility and commitment to exploring the intersection of art, sound, and technology.
As a multimedia artist, Duarte Regino’s work has been featured on numerous international platforms, including prestigious events like the International Symposium on Electronic Arts (ISEA), Media Art Histories, and the World Forum for Acoustic Ecology. His contributions to the field have been recognized globally, with his art being exhibited in esteemed venues such as PACT Zollverein, Medialab Matadero, Valssaamo-Cable Factory, Röda Sten Konsthall, and the Goethe Institute in Beijing.
Duarte Regino has participated in various artist residencies, including the Lofoten Sound Art Symposium, Binaural-Nodar, IAMAS, Titanik Gallery, Ujazdowski Centre for Contemporary Art, and Nida Art Colony. His collaborative projects with renowned artists such as AGF, IC98, and Laura Beloff further highlight his versatility and commitment to exploring the intersection of art, sound, and technology.
Photographs and videos will be taken during the opening of the exhibition. We inform you that the participants may be seen in the photos and videos of the event published in various media.