Associate Artist
Associate Artist Nikki Sheth explores the positive impact of environmental sound in well-being spaces through Sound UK Sound Generator research and development grant.
In summer 2023 sound artist and composer Nikki Sheth spent two weeks field recording on Sao Miguel Island in the Azores. It is the biggest island in the Portuguese Azores archipelago, and it is known for its volcanic scenery, flora and rich marine life. Over a period of two weeks recordings were taken at locations across the island to capture sounds of wildlife and natural environments.
The project explores the psychological effect of environmental sound in well-being spaces and looks to foster a deeper connection to the natural world.
Using 3D sound technology, the soundscape creates a fully immersive listening experience that allows for research on body/listening/space interaction. “Investigations into the effects of forest-bathing, mindfulness-based interventions, and nature-based positive psychological interventions have demonstrated the potential to enhance mental well-being and promote emotion regulation.” Miles Richardson (Nature Connectedness Research Group)
The soundscape is created using recordings taken in the Azores which has areas of pristine natural beauty and documents the wildness and unique species and biodiversity found on the island of Sao Miguel. The experience provides a sense of escapism from the everyday. Listeners are transported to a world of sounds they may not otherwise hear, such as the sound of the Azores Noctule – the only bat species to hunt in daylight hours. It is in first order ambisonics but can be adapted for any multi-channel loudspeaker system. Due to the flexible nature of the sound element, it can engage with many different forms of well-being practices such as yoga, mindfulness, meditation, soundbaths and more.
A collaboration with movement artist David Kam brings the environmental sounds to movement and connectedness practices to be delivered as public sessions. This collaboration uses certain natural sounds to focus on different elements of movement e.g., frog vocalisations on listening and breathing. There is also potential to work with researchers to evaluate the psychological impact of these sounds on participants, showing the role the arts can play in illustrating academic research.
Outputs
- A set of ambisonic field recordings that can be used for various types of well-being sessions (a “Nature Soundbath” in its simplest form).
- Community yoga and movement sessions in collaboration with David Kam, either as a one-off event or as a series of sessions associated with a space.
- First-hand experience of how the sound affected participants well-being through short questionnaires, visual prompts, or simple well-being scales.
With thanks to Sound UK, Sound and Image Research Group, John Lucy and Diana Sousa.
Audio sample: https://soundcloud.com/nikki_sheth/nikki-sheth-immersive-soundscapes-for-well-being
Nikki Sheth Website: https://nikkisheth.myportfolio.com/
David Kam website: https://www.davidkamkiawei.com/
Words by Nikki Sheth