TRAPPED ECOLOGIES
Rooted in the principles of SDG 14: Life Below Water, TRAPPED ECOLOGIES aims to engage with the local communities of Tavira connected to fishing practices, in an exploration of the sonic and ecological landscapes of the Ria Formosa. Through:
- underwater soundscape recordings in the Ria Formosa,
- underwater video recordings in the Ria Formosa,
- collaboration with local scientists,
- deep listening practices,
The project seeks to amplify the voices of the less visible ecologies of more-than-human entities through underwater explorations. By connecting traditional knowledge with contemporary sound art, it raises awareness of the fragile balance of these ecosystems, the impact of climate change, and the urgent need for conservation. The project fosters an inclusive, intergenerational dialogue, where the past and present of Ria Formosa’s waters are translated into artistic expressions that not only preserve cultural heritage but also inspire community-led stewardship for the protection and restoration of aquatic biodiversity.
TRAPPED ECOLOGIES focuses on three forms of anthropogenic pollution in the Ria Formosa: Sound, Light and Plastic.
This project is developed in collaboration with the composer Christian Dimpker. Dimpkers´ research focuses on extended notation techniques, applying them to new media art, theatre, installation, and performance.
TRAPPED ECOLOGIES installation was presented at Museu Zer0 at Santa Catarina da Fonte do Bispo, Tavira, Portugal.
Special thanks to
Curator: Fátima Marques Pereira
Production team: Miguel Neto, Angelo, Joana, Pedro
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- Technique / Materials: installation / computer, USB to DMX interface, laser projector 700 RGB, laser projector 10k, smoke machine, acrylic mirrors, mac mini, video projector, video splitter, PA system, fish nets, octopuss traps.
- Software: Ableton live, DMXIS.
- Dimensions: variable
- Date: 2025
- Location: Museu Zer0, Santa Catarina da Fonte do Bispo, Tavira, Portugal.
©Vico Ughetto (Photography)









