DROWNING IN ÆTHER

About::

Drowning in Æther is a project by Matthias Hurtl focusing on the audibility of satellite signals, electromagnetism, and telecommunication networks through a practice-based approach. The project aims to delve into the narratives of the invisible signals around us, highlighting the expansive, systemic, and geological attributes of the Technosphere.

Drowning.in/Æther is an archive, a collection of sounds and recordings, images, as well as found footage, debris, and artifacts found during the research. It attempts to give an insight into the practice called 'signal hunting' and maybe inspire others to drown in the Æther too.

Knowledge transfer and demystifying radio technology are crucial parts of the project through the intersection of art and education. Therefore, the project involves facilitating workshops on the reception of satellite signals, makeshift antenna building, free open-source software, and self-built amateur radio tools.

Furthermore, the project takes the form of audio-visual performances, sound installations, and fixed media compositions.

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mapping flyer

Upcoming::

24.-28. May 2023 - Demystifying the Æther Workshop w/ Félicien Goguey @ Mapping Festival 2023, Genève Switzerland

Workshop description

The workshop « Demystifying the Æther » explores the world of electromagnetic waves and their omnipresence in our lives. By taking the visible infrastructure as a starting point, media artist Félicien Goguey and sound artist Matthias Hurtl will introduce the participants to the notion of Hertzian space and to the activities conducted within (broadcasting, telephony, aerospace, military, trading, and surveillance…). After being introduced to dedicated hardware and Software Defined Radio, participants will acquire radio signals from different frequency bands on their own – not only as a raw material for sound and image – but also to explore and understand the socio-political dimension of this space from a citizen perspective. By doing so, participants delve into the narratives of the invisible signals around us that illustrate the expansive, systemic, and geological attributes of the Technosphere.

Watch the presentation of the workshop here

Tickets are available via this link