Breath
The location of this land artwork was in the Iberá Wetlands, a unique ecosystem located in the center-north of the province of Corrientes, Argentina. The wetlands are composed of swamps, bogs, lakes, lagoons, and natural watercourses, making them one of the most important freshwater reserves in South America and the second-largest wetland in the world. The location’s rich biodiversity and constant activity despite human presence served as inspiration for the artwork.
The action consisted of creating a small circle no bigger than the performer’s extension and sitting in the middle with eyes closed, listening to the landscape with all senses. By doing so, the performer was able to develop a connection with the environment, becoming aware of the richness of the soundscape and the ecosystem’s activity.
Once the action was finished, the circle was closed, and the land was left as if nothing had ever happened. The ephemeral nature of this artwork serves as a reminder of the transience of human existence and our role in the larger ecosystem. The performance highlights the importance of listening to nature and developing a sense of connection with it.
Through this action, the performer becomes smaller in ego and is reminded of their place within the larger ecosystem. By listening to nature in silence, we can learn to appreciate the richness of the soundscape and the interconnectedness of all things. This understanding encourages us to take action to protect and preserve the environment for future generations.
In summary, “Breath”, located in the Iberá Wetlands, was inspired by the rich biodiversity and constant activity of the ecosystem. The performer’s action of creating a small circle, sitting in the middle, and listening to the landscape with all senses highlights the importance of developing a connection with nature. The ephemeral nature of the artwork serves as a reminder of the transience of human existence and the need to protect and preserve the environment. Through this performance, the performer becomes smaller in ego, developing an understanding of their place within the larger ecosystem and encouraging action to protect the environment.
_Info
Event / GNAP Argentina
Where / Argentina
Date / April 2023
_Curator
Claudia Aravanovich
_Dimensions
Width / 180 cm
Depth / 180 cm
_Location
28°32’52.0″S
57°11’41.3″W
_Location
Artwork
