FROM A WHALE’S BACK

From a Whale’s Back is an installation that explores the visual and sonic underwater world inhabited by whales of different species. It uses video taken from tags and sound from deep ocean hydrophones, both used by scientists to monitor whales.
Our connection to the ocean is direct: we walk out the gallery doors where the San Lorenzo River flows into the Monterey Bay, then into the Pacific Ocean. Artist Yolande Harris and UCSC scientist Ari Friedlaeder work with this very idea of “interconnectedness.” The whale has so much emphasis on all the different ecologies. The health of this majestic being depends on the health of rivers like the San Lorenzo.

Large-scaled projections of video and sound will surround visitors in the gallery, suggesting we are part of the ecology. Sound compositions from hydrophones will be used. Yolande will create a “walk” (similar to “Melt Me Into the Ocean”) inviting visitors to walk t wearing headphones that are adorned with natural materials and listen to the original soundtrack. This type of experience emphasizes the interconnectedness - layer (visual) upon layer (sound) upon layer (movement) of how we experience ecology and deepen our understanding of history. 

From a Whale’s Back is part of Ebb & Flow River Arts Festival and made possible a sponsorship from the Tannery Arts Center and Arts Council Santa Cruz County.

On Exhibition : May 27 - July 26, 2020

Opening Reception : May 29*, 6:00-8:00pm

Artist Talk : June 28*, 3:00pm. Facebook Live. View here.

*All dates with public gatherings are subject to change due to “shelter in place.” Please check the website for online links and digital participation.