Because The Trees Know
A proposal for the
ARBOLA RESIDENCY PROGRAMME
Our project, by Dorit Weintal and Iannis Psallidakos, “Because The Trees Know,” is a commited journey that delves deep into the profound connection between humanity and the natural world. It was initially inspired by our work in Aegina with “The Grove of Synergy,” a project centered around the ancient olive grove, supported by the European Union and Culture Moves Europe (2023). Our motivation stems from the instructive book, “The Secret Life of Trees – How They Live and Why They Matter” by Colin Tudge, driving us to explore this intricate interconnectedness.
Starting in Aegina, we closely collaborated with scientists and scholars in Greece, laying the foundation for future partnerships with university departments internationally. Our vision extends to Pamplona, where we aspire to engage with diverse scientists and experts, enriching our evolving exploration.
Our project weaves a comprehensive tapestry of audiovisual installation and live performance, encompassing video, sound, imagery, and literature. What distinguishes us is the fusion of our multidisciplinary skills. Iannis Psallidakos contributes expertise in voice, music, drawing, photography, land art, and performance, while Dorit Weintal enriches the project with her expertise in choreography, videography, writing, photography, and performance. Together, we challenge ourselves to foster ecological awareness and regeneration of human sensitivity.
Delving deep into frequencies that resonate not only as sonic experiences but also with the human body and the essence of trees, we perceive the organization of trees in nature as a silent choreography. The landscape becomes our scenography, and our journey explores the resilience and architectural synergy of trees. Trees, silent witnesses to time and seasons, inspire us with their enduring resilience.
Simultaneously, we turn our gaze towards the architectural symphony that trees create within their ecosystems. Each tree, like a pillar in a grand cathedral, contributes to the creation of a living, breathing sanctuary. This synergy between trees, their communication through mycorrhizal networks, and their influence on ecosystems is a captivating subject of exploration.
At our project’s core is the exploration of the body in relation to time and history. The human body carries its unique history, just as a tree’s body encapsulates its own narrative and profound form of “knowledge.” We focus on observing movement to unravel the intricate dance of time.
“Because The Trees Know” invites you to uncover the hidden stories trees silently hold, decipher the rhythms of nature, and embrace the wisdom they offer. Through this residency, our aim is to craft an artistic exploration, open dialogue with experts and artists from the field, together to celebrates the profound connection between humanity and the natural world.
