How can the Los Angeles River be reimagined to include its natural history? Through micro-cinematography an ecosystem beneath the LA River is uncovered. Images of planktonic organisms found in the river will prompt viewers to rethink the scales of nature and to imagine the LA River’s natural status and history. THE LA RIVER IS ALIVE is presented as a multi-media instillation, with multiple video channels and audio feeds. The installation also features an interactive map and field guide, allowing visitors to actively engage with the content. The goal of THE LA RIVER IS ALIVE is to promote questions towards defining nature in cities while being reflective of the LA River’s own de-naturalized history and current political vision for its restoration and revitalization.
The production of this project followed protocols like those used in scientific research. Much of the shooting took place in a biological laboratory under a wet dissecting or light microscope. Using lab techniques and a methodology based in ecology this project fused together my science and digital media backgrounds. The media produced for this project is the result of scientific exploration.
As sound designer, I composed the installation’s immersive soundtrack using field recordings captured at each water sample collection site along the LA River. these sounds were embellished with original electro-acoustic compositions.
From press kit: “Through micro-cinematography an ecosystem beneath the LA River is uncovered. Images of microscopic organisms found in the river will prompt viewers to rethink the scales of nature and to imagine the LA River’s natural status and history. This project presents a poetics for seeing and appreciating nature that currently exists beneath the surface”
rounak maiti 