Speculative Immersion - Multimedia Anthropology in the Anthropocene

Over the course of the evening, immersive spatial audio and textured soundscapes will frame a series of performance-lectures, recounting multiple narratives of our human epoch. We will begin with an account of the Anthropocene - the geological epoch we inhabit - and why we deploy a multimedia format for presenting this research. We will go on to discuss diverse relationships between humans and their environments, and the multiple ways these relationships are understood as they transform. Finally, we will explore speculative futures as envisioned by different human societies - from NASA, indigenous groups in Mongolia, to Amerindian communities - and the radically distinct ontologies they are grounded in

Bringing together interdisciplinary research conducted by anthropologists, artists, and sound designers, this performance incorporates immersive technologies - such as spatial audio, projection mapping, and VR - to take us through the shifting ecologies of our times, while inviting us to speculate on alternative futures.

Image: © Maya Hope Chaldecott

Part of the UCL Festival of Culture, a packed, five-day programme of free talks, panel discussions, screenings, performances, and tours. Join us to discover, discuss and be inspired by the exceptional breadth and quality of the arts, humanities and social sciences at UCL.