Posidonia
Soundscapes
MARINE CONSERVATION & MUSIC IN IBIZA
A sonic journey and transdisciplinary initiative originating in Ibiza, dedicated to raising knowleadge, funds and awareness for the protection of Posidonia, a critical ecosystem in the Mediterranean Sea, known as one of the most powerful carbon sinks and a crucial ally in combating climate change.
By leveraging the power of music in collaboration with Ocean scientists and underwater acoustic experts, the project seeks to contribute to promote Ocean Literacy and align with the UN Ocean Decade mission of protecting 30% of marine environments
Posidonia meadows are the lungs of the Mediterranean Sea
Mission
The mission of The Posidonia Project is to leverage the influential reach of the music industry to drive positive change for the ocean and advance Ocean Literacy
Originating in Ibiza, the project addresses the unique challenges and opportunities of being both a vibrant epicenter of the electronic music scene and home to a crucial marine ecosystem, the UNESCO-recognized Posidonia oceanica meadows.
Launched by the Ibiza-based NGO MusicForTheSea.org, this initiative aims to mobilize the artistic community to advocate for the sustainability of vital marine habitats.
Recognizing the impact of club tourism and its ecological footprint, the project aims to give back to Ibiza by protecting its marine heritage.
Through collaboration with artists, forward-thinking creatives, influential music industry stakeholders and scientific experts, the project is dedicated to supporting the UN Ocean Decade's 30x30 goal, aligning with the challenge to protect biodiversity and connect humanity with the ocean.
By making Ibiza a global example of how the music industry can coexist with marine conservation, The Posidonia Project seeks to inspire a worldwide movement toward a bluer planet.
Mission Statement:
The Soundscapes of Posidonia initiative aims to safeguard the Posidonia oceanica meadows of the Mediterranean Sea by leveraging scientific research, sound technology, and artistic engagement. Our mission is to enhance ocean literacy, promote public awareness, and inspire conservation efforts through a multidisciplinary approach. By converting underwater acoustic research into immersive musical and artistic experiences, we strive to foster a deeper understanding of the critical role these ecosystems play in biodiversity, climate regulation, and cultural heritage.
What is posidonia?
Posidonia oceanica, commonly known as Neptune grass, is a plant (not an algae) adapted to live underwater.
It is a vital element in preserving the Mediterranean’s ecosystems, preventing coastal erosion, and balancing the presence of carbon dioxide in the sea and atmosphere.
Posidonia meadows are among the most efficient ecosystems in nature, providing shelter for many underwater species and significantly contributing to CO2 removal.
One square meter of seagrass captures the equivalent of 15 square meters of the Amazon Rainforest.
The Posidonia meadows in the Balearic islands of Ibiza and Formentera, declared World Heritage by UNESCO in 1999, are considered the largest and longest living beings on the planet.
However, this slow-growing species is severely threatened by human impact, pollution, and anchoring of boats, making urgent protection and conservation efforts essential.
Application for the
UN Ocean Decade Action Endorsement
Sound plays a pivotal role in understanding the ocean's physical, biological, and human-made processes. The United Nations Ocean Decade Research Programme on the Maritime Acoustic Environment (OD-MAE) is dedicated to advancing ocean sound science and establishing an international framework for measuring and analyzing underwater acoustic environments.
MusicForTheSea project, Soundscapes of Posidonia, seeks endorsement as an Ocean Decade Action under OD-MAE. This initiative combines underwater acoustic research with efforts to conserve and replant Posidonia Oceanica. By monitoring the soundscapes of Posidonia meadows on the vibrant tourist island of Ibiza, home to some of the most important Posidonia habitats, we aim to measure anthropogenic impacts on these ecosystems, support their restoration and assess the carbon dioxide sequestration capacity of replanted Posidonia over time.By leveraging the power of music and innovative technology, we will transform scientific research into immersive experiences that engage and inspire global audiences. Our transdisciplinary approach blends sound science, music & art to raise awareness, enhance public understanding and promote Ocean Literacy.Through these efforts, Soundscapes of Posidonia we aim to contribute to protection of the Mediterranean Sea while seeking to position Ibiza as a leading example of how local initiatives can drive global change, supporting both biodiversity and climate change mitigation
OVERVIEW
Soundscapes of Posidonia is a pioneering multidisciplinary project focused on the conservation of Posidonia oceanica meadows, key to marine biodiversity and climate regulation in the Mediterranean. The initiative integrates advanced scientific research, sound technology, and public engagement, promoting ocean literacy, protecting marine ecosystems, and positioning Ibiza as a global model for integrating cultural and environmental sustainability.
Vision
Our project, "Soundscapes of Posidonia Meadows: Music & Conservation (Music and Ocean Literacy)," is a transdisciplinary initiative spearheaded by Music For The Sea in Ibiza. This initiative recognizes Ibiza’s unique role as a global epicenter of electronic music, attracting millions of followers worldwide, and as a critical sanctuary for some of the most significant Posidonia meadows in the Mediterranean. These vital ecosystems are currently under threat from the pressures of tourism, highlighting the need for innovative approaches to conservation and public awareness.
Music For The Sea acknowledges the fundamental role that sound plays in enhancing our understanding of the ocean’s physical, biological, and anthropogenic processes. By linking the natural soundscapes of the ocean to music, we aim to bridge the divide between scientific research and public engagement. This approach harnesses the universal language of music to promote ocean literacy, transforming complex ecological data into compelling artistic expressions that foster a deeper appreciation for marine environments and encourage their conservation. Our vision aligns with the United Nations' commitment to using culture, education, and science as instruments for sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
Strategic Collaborations
To realize these objectives, we have established strategic partnerships with leading institutions, including the Marine Research Institute (INMAR) of the University of Cádiz, which contributes scientific expertise in marine ecosystems and underwater acoustics. Our collaboration with the Vellmarí Association, under the leadership of esteemed marine biologist Manu San Félix, supports ongoing Posidonia replantation efforts in Ibiza and Formentera. We are also engaged with the Tursiops Association, specializing in Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) and the monitoring of cetaceans and marine mammals in the Balearic region. Additionally, our partnership with MUTEK, a globally recognized NGO dedicated to the promotion of culture through music, art, and digital innovation, underscores our commitment to a holistic and multidisciplinary approach. This integration of scientific research with creative arts is designed to inspire transformative environmental change, advancing the goals of the UN Ocean Decade by promoting the sustainable management and conservation of marine resources.
Alignment with UN Ocean Decade Challenges
Challenge 2: Protect and Restore Ecosystems and Biodiversity
Soundscapes of Posidonia directly addresses this challenge by monitoring the health and biodiversity of Posidonia oceanica meadows through passive acoustic monitoring (PAM). By collecting baseline acoustic data and conducting long-term monitoring, the project assesses the impact of human activities and the effectiveness of restoration efforts on these ecosystems. The insights gained help inform targeted conservation actions and strategies to restore and protect these vital marine habitats.
Challenge 9: Skills, Knowledge, and Technology for All
This initiative contributes to building knowledge and skills by developing innovative methods for acoustic monitoring and analysis. By integrating advanced technologies such as machine learning and deep learning, the project enhances our ability to interpret complex underwater soundscapes. Additionally, Soundscapes of Posidonia provides educational resources and public engagement opportunities, fostering a deeper understanding of marine acoustics and conservation among scientists, artists, and the general public.
Challenge 10: Restoring Humanity’s Relationship with the Ocean
The project aims to reshape how people perceive and value the ocean by transforming scientific data into compelling sound art and music experiences. By engaging local communities, tourists, and global audiences through public art installations, live performances, and citizen science initiatives, Soundscapes of Posidonia encourages a cultural and emotional connection to the marine environment. This approach promotes a sense of stewardship, inspiring individuals and communities to take action in support of ocean conservation and sustainable practices.
Objectives
Acoustic Characterization
Deploy Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) systems to capture the natural soundscapes of Posidonia meadows.
Study the impact of human-made noise on marine life, focusing on phenomena such as cetacean biophony and bioacoustic interactions.
Ecosystem Health Assessment
Monitor the health of Posidonia meadows using sound analysis, particularly before and after restoration efforts.
Evaluate the success of conservation initiatives through systematic acoustic monitoring.
Public Awareness and Engagement
Use sound synthesis to transform scientific data into immersive musical and artistic experiences.
Engage the public through events, art installations, and citizen science projects, fostering collaboration among scientists, artists, and communities.
Ocean Literacy
Promote understanding of the importance of acoustic environments in marine ecosystems.
Educate audiences on the significance of preserving underwater soundscapes for the health of marine life and human well-being.
Project Phases
Phase 1: Initial Acoustic Characterization (Year 1) - STARTING APRIL 2025
Deploy PAM systems to gather baseline acoustic data in Posidonia meadows.
Analyze acoustic data to understand both natural and anthropogenic noise impacts, creating a reference library for further study and artistic use.
Phase 2: Long-Term Acoustic Monitoring and Artistic Collaboration (Years 2-3)
Continue acoustic monitoring to identify temporal changes in soundscapes.
Utilize machine learning to interpret biogenic sounds and identify key ecosystem bioindicators.
Expand sound library for use in public art installations and performances.
Phase 3: Post-Replantation Health Evaluation (Year 4)
Assess the health of restored Posidonia meadows through acoustic analysis and other metrics like oxygen production and biomass fluctuation.
Collaborate with international research institutions and involve local communities in data collection and interpretation.
Impact and Dissemination
Integration of Music Technology and Acoustic Research: Develop sound-based art and music compositions that highlight the importance of marine conservation.
Multidisciplinary Events: Host events combining scientific presentations, musical performances, and art exhibitions to foster a cultural dialogue about marine conservation.
Public Art Installations and Live Performances: Create immersive experiences to raise awareness of the ecological importance of Posidonia meadows.
Citizen Science Initiatives: Engage the public and artists in scientific research, making data collection and interpretation accessible.
Global Model for Conservation: Showcase Ibiza as a leader in merging cultural industries with environmental sustainability, inspiring similar global initiatives.
Ocean Literacy and Education
Promoting Ocean Literacy: Develop resources and programs to educate on the significance of underwater soundscapes.
Collaborative Learning: Partner with educational institutions and NGOs to disseminate knowledge on ocean conservation and noise pollution.
Awareness Campaigns: Utilize digital media and public events to connect ocean health, human well-being, and cultural heritage.
Outreach and Dissemination:
Advancing Ocean Literacy and Engaging Global Audiences for Marine Conservation
The Soundscapes of Posidonia project harnesses the universal language of music to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries, promoting inclusivity and diversity in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By leveraging the powerful emotional and communicative potential of music, this initiative seeks to deepen the global public’s connection to the ocean, fostering appreciation, understanding, and commitment to marine protection. Originating from Ibiza, a global epicenter of music with a vast audience reach and home to some of the most extensive meadows of Posidonia oceanica, the project aims to use this unique position to amplify its message. Central to this approach is the promotion of ocean literacy, which involves educating audiences about the critical importance of marine ecosystems, the challenges they face, and the necessary actions to ensure their sustainability. By integrating scientific research, advanced music technology, and interdisciplinary collaboration, we aim to cultivate a shared sense of responsibility for the well-being of our oceans, thereby promoting sustainable practices and conservation efforts on a global scale.
Aligned with UNESCO's vision of integrating culture, science, and education for sustainable development, the Soundscapes of Posidonia project employs a holistic approach to outreach and dissemination. By leveraging music as a catalyst for change, with its vast global reach, the project aspires to foster a culture of ocean stewardship and environmental responsibility. The following strategies are designed to ensure that the project's message resonates with diverse audiences worldwide, enhancing understanding and engagement with marine conservation and sustainable practices.
Integration of Music Technology and Underwater Acoustic Research
The Soundscapes of Posidonia project focuses on developing soundscapes inspired by underwater recordings from Posidonia oceanica meadows, using these soundscapes as a powerful tool to promote ocean literacy and convey the urgency of protecting marine ecosystems. By merging scientific data with artistic creativity, the project transforms complex ecological information into accessible and emotionally resonant musical compositions, fostering a deeper connection between audiences and the natural world. This approach underscores the role of music as a universal medium for education and advocacy, bridging the gap between science and public engagement.
Ableton, a leading company in music technology with a global community of passionate music creators, represents a potential collaborator in these efforts. Known for its innovative software, including Ableton Live, Ableton could provide advanced tools that empower artists, producers, and educators to create immersive soundscapes. While Ableton has shown strong support for these objectives, any collaboration would develop organically over time, reflecting shared goals and available resources. Ableton's commitment to creativity, inclusivity, and sustainability aligns with our mission and the broader goals of the UN Ocean Decade, contributing to the advancement of ocean stewardship through the fusion of music and environmental science.
Immersive Audio-Visual Multidisciplinary Events
Through immersive events that combine live music, visual art, and scientific presentations, the project seeks to create compelling experiences that engage both the senses and the mind. These events aim to enhance ocean literacy by demonstrating the interconnectedness of art, science, and conservation. Partnering with MUTEK, an internationally acclaimed organization dedicated to digital creativity in sound and audio-visual art, the project will host events in Ibiza and other major cultural hubs, including Montreal, Barcelona, Mexico City, Santiago, Buenos Aires, and Dubai. By showcasing innovative and experimental works through live performances, scientific presentations, digital art installations, and symposiums—such as "The Posidonia Project - Bridging Electronic Music with Marine Conservation, Barcelona 2024"—these events will serve as platforms for dialogue and discovery, promoting sustainable marine practices and cultural exchange. MUTEK's expertise in curating avant-garde festivals ensures that the events will maintain high artistic quality and cultural relevance.
Album Releases, Sound Projects, and Artist Residencies
The project will curate and release eco-friendly music albums featuring contributions from influential ambient artists from around the globe, including Denmark, France, the UK, the USA, Kenya, Mexico, Japan, Italy, Norway, Germany, and Australia. Inspired by the natural beauty and soundscapes of Ibiza’s marine environment, these artists participate in inspiring underwater expeditions, gathering material for their music and promoting ocean literacy. Wider Sounds, a multidisciplinary creative hub and recording studio in Ibiza, will continue to host artist residencies, providing a space for musicians to collaborate on these eco-conscious projects. By integrating sustainability into the creative process, this collaboration with Wider Sounds offers an environment that connects artistic expression with ecological awareness, encouraging artists to use their platforms to highlight ecological issues, promote sustainable practices, and foster global appreciation for marine conservation.
Public Art Installations and Live Performances
To bring the message of ocean conservation to urban environments, the project aims to create public art installations featuring live marine soundscapes through engagements and collaborations with local institutions. These installations will be strategically placed in public spaces in Ibiza and other global cities, allowing people to experience the underwater world and inspiring them to engage with marine conservation. By using real-time sound data and interactive technology, these installations will provide immersive educational experiences, enhancing public awareness of the beauty and ecological significance of Posidonia oceanica meadows.
Educational Resources and Workshops
The project will develop a wide range of educational resources, including videos, documentaries, and workshops, highlighting the role of Posidonia oceanica in sustaining marine health and combating climate change. These educational initiatives target tourists, children, and local communities, promoting ocean literacy and inspiring future generations to become environmental stewards. Collaborations with entities like Ableton and EarthPercent, founded by influential artist Brian Eno, will enhance these efforts. Initiatives such as "Nature as a Co-Writer" encourage artists to incorporate ecological themes into their work, advocating for sustainable practices. EarthPercent’s mission to utilize music for environmental advocacy supports our objectives, extending the impact of our message through partnerships with influential figures in the music industry.
Radio Show
The "BlueResonance" radio show, launching in November 2024 on OpenLab.fm, will blend ambient music inspired by underwater soundscapes of the Soundscapes of Posidonia with discussions on marine conservation. This program targets a global audience, using the power of music to enhance ocean literacy and raise awareness about the importance of ocean health. Featuring contributions from guest artists, scientists, and conservationists, "BlueResonance" fosters a community dedicated to the protection of our oceans, using music as a medium for environmental advocacy.
Participation in Music Festivals
By integrating marine conservation themes into music festivals worldwide, the project leverages the vast reach of these cultural events to promote ocean literacy. Through multimedia performances, symposiums, and panel discussions, the project engages festival-goers in conversations about sustainable practices. In collaboration with the International Music Summit (IMS) in Ibiza, the project will use platforms like the "Music Power in Climate Crisis" panel, where MusicForTheSea founder Coco Francavilla will participate in April 2024, to discuss the role of music in fostering environmental stewardship, bringing together environmental advocates, industry leaders, and artists to explore the intersection of music and sustainability.
Local Engagement and Collaboration with the Ibiza Music Community
Recognizing Ibiza’s status as a global hub for electronic music, the project seeks to engage the local music industry community and stakeholders to support our project and advance ocean literacy. This includes influential DJs and music producers who attract millions of followers. Through initiatives like TechnoX30, the project invites these artists to become "Ocean Ambassadors," using their platforms to advocate for marine conservation and participate in citizen science. During the clubbing season, these ambassadors will engage in Posidonia replantation expeditions, including during the deployment of hydrophones for underwater acoustic research, create sound samples inspired by their experiences, and curate playlists that promote ocean literacy. This initiative not only offers unique musical content to global audiences but also inspires broader change towards ocean preservation.
Another local engagement effort for ocean literacy is the collaboration and support of TEDx Dalt Vila, an independently organized TED event in Ibiza. This event serves as a platform for sharing innovative ideas and promoting positive change. Through collaboration with TEDx Dalt Vila, the project emphasizes the importance of sustainability, ocean resilience, and the role of music in environmental stewardship. MusicForTheSea founder Coco Francavilla will participate in talks and performances, highlighting the critical importance of ocean literacy and sustainable practices, engaging the local community in meaningful conservation efforts.
Conferences and Summits
Representing the project at international conferences and summits, the Soundscapes of Posidonia initiative advocates for sustainable marine practices and highlights the transformative potential of music and the arts in promoting environmental awareness. Engaging with policymakers, industry leaders, and scientists, the project seeks to influence global conservation strategies, advocating for interdisciplinary approaches to ocean stewardship.
Citizen Science Initiatives
The project actively involves the public and artists in scientific data collection and interpretation, making marine research accessible and participatory. Collaborating with organizations like Ocean World of Sound, part of the Maritime Acoustic Environment (MAE) program, the project will utilize methodologies that combine listening techniques and research on the Mesoamerican Reef ecosystem. These citizen science initiatives empower individuals to engage in conservation efforts, enhancing their connection to the ocean and fostering a sense of responsibility for its preservation.
Establishing Ibiza as a Global Model for Conservation
By showcasing the successful integration of music, art, and science in conservation efforts, the project aims to position Ibiza as a global model for how cultural industries can align with environmental sustainability. This initiative serves as an inspiration for similar projects worldwide, demonstrating the powerful role of cultural engagement in promoting ocean health and advancing ocean literacy.
The Soundscapes of Posidonia initiative embodies a comprehensive outreach strategy that aligns with UNESCO's mission to utilize education, culture, and science as catalysts for sustainable development. By employing innovative methods of dissemination and public engagement, the project not only raises awareness about the critical importance of marine conservation but also nurtures a global community committed to protecting the health of our oceans. Through these diverse efforts, the initiative aims to inspire lasting change in humanity's relationship with and care for the marine environment, leveraging the universal appeal of music to enhance ocean literacy and foster a sense of global responsibility..
Below images captured during Posidonia Replantation expedition in Ibiza, conducted by marine biologist and National Geographic explorer Manu San Felix and his crew Vellmari Association together with MusicFortheSea team
Official Partners
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MUTEK
Montreal, Canada
Barcelona, Spain
Mexico City, Mexico
Santiago, Chile
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
An international festival dedicated to electronic music and digital arts, with a strong focus on sustainability.Outreach: Provides a platform for showcasing our project at high-profile events, attracting a diverse and engaged audience, and promoting sustainable practices in the arts. -
INMAR INSTITUTE OF MARINE RESEARCH
Cadiz, Spain
Institute Of Marine Reasearch of the University of Cadiz dedicated to advancing marine sciences through cutting-edge research and innovation. As a leader in the study of coastal and marine ecosystems,it plays a crucial role in conservation and sustainable management.Outreach: INMAR collaborates with initiatives of MusicForTheSea to bridge the gap between science and public awareness, fostering a deeper understanding of marine conservation through underwater acoustic research -
VELLMARI ASSOCIATION
Ibiza-Formentera, Spain
Founded by Manu San Felix, focused on promoting the protection and conservation of the Mediterranean Sea, especially Posidonia oceanica meadows in the Balearic Islands.
Outreach: Strengthens the scientific foundation of our project through collaboration with leading marine biologists and conservationists, enhancing the credibility and impact of our conservation efforts.. -
OCEAN WORLD OF SOUNDS
Cancun, Mexico
A research hub focused on ocean conservation and the Mesoamerican Reef (MAR), Amerging art and science to connect people with marine environments. Collaborates with us on the Soundscapes of Posidonia project, offering expertise in underwater acoustic monitoring and promoting ocean literacyOutreach: Supports scientific-artistic initiatives, engaging the public through sound projects that raise awareness of ocean conservation and the impact of human activities on marine life. -
TUSIOPS ASSOCIATION
Mallorca, Spain
Institute Tursiops is an NGO dedicated to the conservation and protection of cetaceans in the western Mediterranean, with a focus on promoting and disseminating research on these vital marine species.Outreach:helping to create a deeper connection between the public and marine conservation efforts. This partnership amplifies our collective reach, combining scientific rigor with creative expression to foster a broader understanding and commitment to ocean conservation
Supporters & Collaborators
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WIDER SOUNDS
Ibiza, Spain
A multidisciplinary creative hub in Ibiza that integrates music production, artistic collaboration, and nature. Wider Sounds serves as the main space for our artist residency program, creating a unique environment where creativity meets ecological consciousness.
Outreach:
Provides a space for prominent electronic artists to engage in our residency program, fostering collaborations that highlight ecological issues, promote ocean literacy, and inspire sustainable practices within the local & global music community -
ABLETON
Berlin, Germany
Ableton is a leading company in the field of music technology, renowned for its innovative software, including the widely used Ableton Live, which empowers artists, producers, and educators to create, perform, and engage with music in transformative ways. With a commitment to creativity, inclusivity, and sustainability, Ableton fosters a global community of music creators, supporting diverse artistic expressions and collaborations across boundaries. As a potential collaborator, Ableton’s role in developing music technology tools, supporting educational initiatives, and engaging a broad audience through music-driven conservation efforts would significantly enhance our collective impact on Ocean conservation -
EARTH / PERCENT
London, UK
NYC, USA
Founded by Brian Eno, focusing on leveraging music to support environmental causes. EarthPercent is among our beneficiary donors. We engage artists in EarthPercent’s "Nature as a Co-Writer" initiative, aligning with their mission to promote sustainability. Outreach: Amplifies our environmental message through collaboration with a respected organization in the music industry, attracting attention and support from influential artists and audiences. -
IMS
Ibiza, Spain
International Music Summit (IMS) is a global thought-leadership platform for industry, culture, education, technology and wellness in electronic music. IMS is supporting MusicForTheSea by giving us the opportunity to participate in the Ibiza summit. This includes panels such as Music Power in Climate Crisis, featuring influential environmental advocates from the music industry. -
TEDx DALT VILLA
Ibiza, Spain
An independently organized TED event in Ibiza, showcasing ideas worth spreading through inspiring talks and performances. MusicForTheSea founder Coco Francavilla collaborates with TEDxDaltVila to promote sustainability, ocean resilience, and inspire positive change within the local community. This collective effort enhances our mutual goals of fostering impactful environmental awareness and sustainable practices on the island -
OPENLAB
Ibiza, Spain
An influential radio station in Ibiza, promoting ocean awareness and ambient music through our project.
Outreach: Extends our reach to a global audience, promoting our project and its goals through regular radio programming and engaging listeners in marine conservation discussions -
DJ MAGAZINE - IBIZA
Ibiza, Spain
London UK
With journalist Mick Wilson as a key contributor to our projects, the influential club culture magazine supports us in advocating for sustainability within the electronic music industry -
ARL: UT
Texas, USA
ARL:UT Applied Research Laboratories UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS is a University Affiliated Research Center (UARC) with a long history of excellence in the areas of sonar, information science offering educational programs for students in acoustics, including research opportunities, employment, and scholarships -
FORO MARINO
Ibiza, Spain
An annual forum taking place in Ibiza,that gathers environmental experts, policymakers, and activists to discuss marine conservation strategies in the Mediterranean. MusicForTheSea was invited to participate in these discussions, where we presented our initiatives, highlighting the intersection of music and marine conservtion -
BELLA VERDE
Ibiza, Spain
Lisbon, Portugal
Dedicated to promoting sustainable boating practices in Ibiza, helping to protect marine environments. They collaborate with MusicForTheSea by bringing artists on field recording expeditions, inspiring creative works that connect music with the Sea and raise awareness about environmental conservation -
IBIZA PRESERVATION
Ibiza - Formentera, Spain
Organization focused on preserving the environmental heritage of Ibiza through various conservation projects -
WOMEN FROM THE SEA
Women from the Sea is an action endorsed by the UN Ocean Decade, dedicated to raising awareness about ocean protection through the voices of women. The project highlights the importance of women’s leadership in marine conservation. MusicForTheSea founder Coco Francavilla participates in this initiative, harnessing the power of storytelling to amplify women's roles in ocean stewardship and leadership.
“We need to defend diversity on land and in the sea and we need solutions, and these solutions can only be realized by harnessing the imaginative side of human culture – the arts.”
Artists
The artists invited to take part in THE POSIDONIA PROJECT are exceptional composers thriving in the ambient music scene. The goal is to invite these artists to a four-day residency at Ibiza's WIDER SOUNDS studio. During their visit to the Balearic Island, artists will have the opportunity to explore Posidonia marine sites, embark on sonic journeys, and participate in photographic expeditions to find inspiration for composing tracks to be included in the compilation album. Each artist will have the chance to conduct field recordings by the Posidonia meadows, both underwater and along the sea surface.
In addition to their artistic endeavors, these artists will be involved in bioacoustic monitoring as citizen scientists. The recordings they produce will serve multiple purposes: they will be used for musical compositions, sound libraries, and scientific research aligned with the Ocean Decade actions. These tracks will be featured in the compilation album and utilized for artistic visual content creation to raise awareness about Posidonia. Extracts from the tracks, accompanied by visuals of the sea, will be used to create climate-forward artistic videos, serving as another powerful fundraising vehicle. Unique new-media artists will be invited to contribute to the creation of visuals, enhancing the project's artistic and environmental impact.
ARTISTS ALREADY PARTICIPATING
RAFAEL ANTON IRISARRI
GRAND RIVER
SOFIE BIRCH
PATRICIA WOLF
KAZUYA NAGAYA
MARTA DE PASCALIS
DRUM & LACE
COCO FRANCAVILLA
ARTISTS INVITED & COMING SOON
SUZANNE CIANI
CATERINA BARBIERI
KMRU
LOSCIL
MARY LATTIMORE
BENDIK GISKE
STEVE HAUSCHILDT
IMAGINARY SOFTWOOD
EMERALDS
ABUL MOGARD
ANA ROXANNE
HELEN VOGELSINGER
FRANZ ROSATI
MORE ARTISTS TBA
Several renowned photographers will contribute to the Posidonia photo editions, creating a captivating visual narrative that merges art and science.
One such photographer is Manu San Felix, a National Geographic explorer and marine biologist. Manu has dedicated his life to protecting the underwater environment, specifically Posidonia. He created the PosidoniaMaps App to safeguard the Mediterranean and founded the Vellmari Association and Reserva30.org which promotes marine conservation through research, communication, and education. With over a decade on the "Pristine Seas" team, Manu's work has significantly raised awareness for ocean conservation.
Another invited photographer is Lorenzo Melissari. Born in Sicily and now based in Ibiza, Lorenzo's love for the sea fuels his commitment to Posidonia conservation. His evocative, dream-like underwater images connect the Posidonia meadows with the human body. Visiting artists will join Lorenzo in exploring marine sites, embarking on a mesmerizing photographic journey and capturing field recordings, further enriching the project's artistic and conservation efforts.
More artists will be invited to join this initiative, contributing to a stunning visual narrative that highlights the beauty and importance of Posidonia meadows. Through this collaborative effort, we aim to create a powerful storytelling portfolio that blends art and science, inspiring global audiences to appreciate and protect our precious marine ecosystems.
photography
Photos by Lorenzo Melissari
Video by Manu San Felix
visual artists
Visual artists are invited to join the Posidonia Project, where they will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the mesmerizing beauty of the sea and draw inspiration from its enchanting depths. Through this collaboration, artists are encouraged to create multimedia art that reflects their personal connection to the ocean and its delicate ecosystems. These captivating artworks will be showcased as part of immersive art installations, providing a platform for the expression of diverse perspectives on marine conservation and sustainability. Additionally, selected pieces may be featured at music events such as MUTEK festivals, where they will complement live performances and enrich the overall sensory experience for attendees.
Visual Art by Eduardo Navarro
the journey
Here are some images of the Artists’ journey experiencing The Posidonia Project residencies in Ibiza … between magic expeditions by the sea, field-recordings by the water and the sky and mesmerizing time in the studio.
The Expeditions with Artists - photos by Coco Francavilla
The Artists in the Studio - photos by Coco Francavilla
fundraising/
donation
The production cost of the project (to cover fees to artists/ studio residencies/ photo material/ audio mastering/ press of vinyl / printing of photo-book/ distribution/ promotion etc) will be financed by contributions from several sponsors and via a crowdfunding campaign.
We are seeking contributions from various stakeholders to finance the project, covering expenses for inviting artists, paying marine biologists, and purchasing research equipment
The proceeds from the project album releases, live events, personal donations, exhibitions, art installations) will be donated to associations and foundations committed to the safeguard of the Posidonia and marine habitat such as:
VELLMARI ASSOCIATION
Founded by marine biologist and National Geographic photographer Manu San Felix, Vellmari it’s an association that work to conserve marine habitats and ecosystems (especially Posidonia), inspiring people and companies so that together we can face the threats suffered by the seas and oceans and specifically the Mediterranean Sea. Vellmari works in a coordinated way and in direct contact with Universities, educational and research centers, which allows to have a direct and rigorous knowledge of the development of the projects
Founded by composer and ambient music pioneer Brian Eno , EarthPercent is a charity providing a simple way for the music industry to support the most impactful organizations addressing the climate emergency. The mission is to encourage artists and music-related organizations to pledge a small percentage of their income to EarthPercent. This percentage can be collected at source and diverted to EarthPercent where it will be directed to the most impactful organizations dealing with climate change.