Underwater Soundscapes

Dive beneath the surface of the Brisbane River and discover a hidden world of sound. In this hands-on workshop led by sound artist and researcher Dr Leah Barclay, participants will explore the art and science of underwater listening and create their own original soundscape composition.

Looking at the surface of a river, it is virtually impossible to detect environmental changes. Listening provides access to a non-invasive way of understanding these hidden aquatic worlds. This workshop explores the creative possibilities of listening underwater, using innovative technologies to bridge art and science. You'll experiment with listening techniques, discover how aquatic soundscapes can be transformed into immersive sonic environments, and learn how artists and scientists are using ecoacoustics to monitor ecosystem health and inspire ecological awareness.

Drawing on Dr Leah Barclay's 15 years of experience recording marine and freshwater ecosystems worldwide, you'll gain practical skills in underwater recording technology and discover how sound can reveal what the eye cannot see.

In this workshop you will:

• Learn about hydrophones and underwater recording technology
• Explore the creative possibilities of listening underwater
• Discover innovative uses of creative technologies to explore the art and science of sound
• Record the sounds beneath the surface of the Brisbane River
• Produce an original soundscape using your hydrophone recordings

Participants must be over 16 years of age.

Please read through our Getting Started at The Edge page which includes terms of use. You’ll find answers to age restrictions, what to bring, what to do if you’re running late, refunds and more.

Please become a State Library member before you arrive. If you already have a State Library member account, make sure you know your login details as you may be required to login during the workshop to access State Library computers, and to make bookings for equipment.

Please contact us if you need support to participate in this event and consult State Library of Queensland's conditions of entry before making your booking.

To find out more about what else is on offer, read up on The Edge and our make and design space. You can also subscribe to be the first to know about our future events.

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Host or Publisher State Library of Queensland