Into the Heart of the Murmuration: Talk by Steve Geliot

About

The dictionary definition of murmur is “an almost inaudible utterance”. But what does a murmuration actually sound like? Much has been written about the visual spectacle of starling murmurations, yet their sound remains elusive, misunderstood and surprisingly difficult to record. In this illustrated talk, artist and filmmaker Steve Geliot explores the phenomenon of starling murmurations with a particular focus on sound - alongside film footage that takes us deep into the flock.

Steve’s fascination with murmurations began through sculpture, inspired by the ecstatic, flowing drapery of Renaissance German limewood carvings. Imagining the saints removed from their altarpieces, he recognised similar forces at work in the fantastical forms created by thousands of starlings moving as one over Brighton’s skies.

As his practice expanded into film, projection and performance - including collaborations with professional dancers - Steve developed techniques that mirror the experience of flying within a murmuration itself: using long lenses, stabilised cameras and physical intuition to anticipate movement and immerse himself in the flow.

Steve Geliot works across sculpture, film, photography and site-specific projection. His work is often inspired by nature and experiences of awe. He was Artist in Residence for Fabrica’s Living Coast residency, working in Stanmer Woods at night, and is also a published citizen scientist collaborating with the GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences, specialising in remote sensing and light pollution.

A talk for artists, scientists, bird-lovers and anyone curious about what it means to listen more closely to the natural world.