Bill Fontana | Primal Sonic Visions

Opening at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice on May 26th within the framework of the 16th International Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, PRIMAL SONIC VISIONS is an exhibition of high-definition multimedia artworks by the renowned American sound artist Bill Fontana commissioned by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). Exploring the major systems of renewable energy production in various parts of the world, it seeks to arouse a sense of wonder in the public at the sheer power of the energy generated by wind, solar, water and geothermal sources. IRENA is a global intergovernmental organisation which supports countries in their transition to a sustainable energy future.

Sponsored by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment of the United Arab Emirates and the Italian Ministry for the Environment, Land and Sea, the exhibition is a production of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), in collaboration with Ca’ Foscari University of Venice and Science Gallery Venice and it’s organized by Arthemisia.

“Primal Sonic Visions prompts deep reflection on the power and effectiveness of energy capable of ensuring the future of our planet and triggers an emotional response to the environment, now under violent attack from the effects of climate change and atmospheric agents” said artist Bill Fontana. “As people enter the space, they are met with an emotional experience that at first instills a sense of wonder, and later transforms into a deep reflection of the potential and power of these energy sources to be used in securing a future for our planet.”

The exhibition includes reflection on the MOSE project to protect Venice against flooding and the associated debate.