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The Posidonia
Project
a sonic journey and multi-disciplinary initiative originating in Ibiza with the aim to create awareness and raise funds for the protection of Posidonia, a critical ecosystem in the Mediterranean Sea.
Posidonia is renowned as one of the most powerful carbon sinks, playing a significant role in combating climate change.
By leveraging the power of music, the project aims to contribute to the Ocean Decade mission to protect 30% of the Mediterranean Sea by 2030.
Posidonia meadows
are the lungs of the Mediterranean Sea
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Posidonia oceanica, commonly known as Neptune grass, is a plant (not an algae) adapted to live underwater. It is a vital element to preserve the Mediterranean’s ecosystems, prevent coastal erosion and balance the presence of carbon dioxide in the sea and atmosphere.
Posidonia meadows are in fact one of the most efficient ecosystems in nature, providing shelter for many underwater species and contributing to the removal of CO2 from the atmosphere: one square meter of seagrass captures the equivalent of 15 square meters of Amazon Rainforest.
The Posidonia meadows in the Balearic islands of Ibiza and Formentera were declared in 1999 as World Heritage by UNESCO, considered the largest and the longest living being on the planet, about 15km long and up to 100.000 years old.
Unfortunately, this extremely slow-growing and long-lived species have become severely threatened by human impact and have been declining at an alarming rate.
In the Balearic Islands, the plants that populate the seabed are currently in regression, not only due to the warming of the water, but also due to local disturbances such as pollution or the anchoring of boats.
We urgently need to protect and save Posidonia, our great ally in the fight against climate change.
Every bluer step we make, it’s a step to make the planet a better place.
About the project
The Posidonia Project was launched by composer Coco Francavilla, founder of MusicForTheSea—an NGO dedicated to connecting musicians and forward-thinking creatives to support marine sustainability.
With a profound love for the Mediterranean Sea and a strong environmental commitment, Coco Francavilla, a long-time resident of the Balearic Island of Ibiza, envisioned a project aimed at raising awareness and funds for Posidonia. She believed that amidst global challenges, the artist community possesses the power to advocate for a bluer planet, ensuring the protection and preservation of our ocean ecosystems.
Mission
The mission of the project is leverage the influential reach of the music industry to drive positive environmental change. Recognizing the impact of Ibiza’s vibrant club scene on the local marine ecosystem, we aim to transform this influence into a force for good. By collaborating with artists, forward-thinking creatives and influential music industry stakeholders in conjunction with scientific experts, we extend our reach, promoting marine conservation efforts globally.
Project highlights
ARTIST RESIDENCIES
The project invites influential artists to Ibiza for a transformative Posidonia Journey. Artists engage in captivating expeditions, capture field recordings by the sea, and draw inspiration from Ibiza's WIDER SOUNDS studio. This immersive experience allows artists to deeply connect with marine conservation efforts, integrating these insights into their creative processes. By experiencing the expedition firsthand, artists gain a profound understanding of Posidonia oceanica's importance, inspiring them to create music that reflects their environmental stewardship. This initiative aligns with our NGO's goal of inspiring re-wilding as personal transformation, empowering artists to advocate for environmental conservation through their art and amplify awareness globally.
MARINE BIOLOGISTS & RESEARCHERS
Collaborating with prominent marine biologists and researchers to strengthen the scientific foundation of our conservation efforts, as with Ibiza-based marine biologist Manu San Felix, founder of the Vellmarí Association dedicated to Mediterranean protection. Manu San Felix is renowned in Posidonia marine biology and serves as a National Geographic ambassador for the Pristine Seas project.
BIOACOUSTIC MONITORING & FIELD RECORDINGS
Implements Passive Acoustic Monitoring techniques to monitor Posidonia meadows. During residency programs on the island, sound artists participate in underwater recording sessions, capturing the unique acoustic properties of the marine environment. These recordings not only enrich artistic endeavors but also contribute invaluable data to ongoing conservation efforts, enhancing our understanding and protection of marine biodiversity. Capturing the intriguing sounds of the Mediterranean Sea environment, including underwater recordings around the Posidonia meadows, using advanced bioacoustic monitoring techniques with the support of marine biologists and oceanographer researchers. These meadows harbor a diverse array of marine species and are fundamental to the ecosystem. Our goal is to study the human impact on these meadows through Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) and aiming to contribute data to the Global Library of Underwater Biological Sounds, furthering scientific
understanding and conservation efforts
POSIDONIA PROTECTION & REPLANTATION
In collaboration with Vellmari Association, our initiative supports the replantation and conservation of Posidonia oceanica, led by Manu San Felix. We engage artists as citizen scientists in hands-on expeditions focused on Posidonia replantation and conservation. This involvement not only contributes to tangible conservation efforts but also leverages the artists' extensive fanbase, amplifying awareness and reaching potentially millions of people worldwide. Through these projects, we aim to protect and preserve marine biodiversity, aligning with global sustainability goals for a healthier future for our oceans.
SEASCAPES SAMPLING & SOUND DESIGN
From underwater acoustics to sound art: creating ambient seascape textures and organic electronic soundscapes for sonic art and sound libraries on platforms. These recordings will also serve as a bioacoustic library for scientific research. Utilizing modular and granular synthesis, and sound design techniques to create ambient seascape textures and organic electronic soundscapes, tailored for Splice’s audience.
CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY COLLABORATIONS
Collaborating with music industry stakeholders to create tools that transform scientific data, such as underwater sounds, into tools for creative music production. This collaboration can lead to the development of custom patches and modules, enabling artists to integrate these unique sounds into their compositions, thus bridging the gap between scientific research and artistic expression
MUSIC INDUSTRY ENGAGEMENT
Collaborating with influential DJs and producers in Ibiza to promote marine conservation. These artists act as ambassadors, integrating our message and engaging their vast audience in sustainability. Partnering with the club industry aims to foster sustainable nightlife and support conservation efforts in the Balearic Sea region, aiming to position Ibiza as a global example of how nightlife and marine conservation can coexist harmoniously, igniting inspiration for global change for the ocean.
Outreach
IMMERSIVE AUDIO-VISUAL
MULTIDISCIPLINARY EVENTS
Organizing immersive events that blend music, art, and science to engage audiences in marine conservation. These events, held in Ibiza and at digital arts festivals across Europe with partners like MUTEK and OpenLab, feature installations and live performances by all participating artists. The events are organized in alignment with sustainable event management practices, fostering environmental consciousness within the creative community.
ALBUM RELEASES
Curating albums that tell the story of the sea through music, showcasing tracks composed by participating artists. These albums, pressed on vinyl using bio-plastic materials, serve as a tangible representation of the project's artistic contributions while emphasizing sustainability in music distribution.
PHOTOGRAPHY EDITIONS
Printed on zero-impact Favini recycled algae paper, these editions feature captivating imagery from Posidonia expeditions and stunning underwater photographs of the Balearic Sea. This visually immersive publication aims to raise awareness of marine conservation issues while promoting eco-friendly printing practices.
PUBLIC ART INSTALLATIONS
Developing interactive art installations that feature the sounds of the sea and the stories of the Posidonia meadows. These installations will be displayed at various cultural and music festivals, as well as in public spaces, engaging a wide audience and raising awareness about the importance of marine ecosystems. Collaborating with the local government (Ajuntament) and incorporating citizen science elements will further involve the public, creating a deeper connection and understanding of marine conservation.
EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
Developing marine conservation educational videos, documentaries, and workshops tailored to engage children in sustainable thinking through art and music. These resources aim to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards while highlighting the importance of preserving marine ecosystems like the Posidonia meadows.
CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY COLLABORATIONS
Collaborating with music industry stakeholders to create tools that transform scientific data, such as underwater sounds, into tools for creative music production. This collaboration can lead to the development of custom patches and modules, enabling artists to integrate these unique sounds into their compositions, thus bridging the gap between scientific research and artistic expression.
RADIO SHOW - BLUERESONANCE
Launching a dedicated radio show on the esteemed electronic Radio OpenLab platform. This show features music by project artists and promotes awareness of marine conservation issues to a broader audience, amplifying the project's message while engaging listeners in discussions about environmental sustainability.
MUSIC FESTIVAL PARTICIPATION
Partnering with leading music festivals to raise awareness through special performances and dedicated stages. Integrating marine conservation themes, we educate attendees about preserving marine ecosystems. This initiative promotes sustainable practices and supports efforts aligned with the United Nations Ocean Decade, fostering environmental stewardship through arts and education.
CONFERENCES AND SUMMITS
Representing the music industry’s commitment to ocean change awareness at international forums and summits. We advocate for sustainable practices that protect marine ecosystems, fostering dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders. Our presence aims to highlight the intersection of music and environmental conservation, promoting initiatives aligned with the United Nations Ocean Decade to drive impactful change for ocean health worldwide.
Alignment with UN Ocean Decade & SDG
CONSERVATION IMPACT
Raising funds and awareness for marine conservation, supporting UN Ocean Decade initiatives, and addressing key challenges such as ecosystem restoration and climate change mitigation. Our initiatives actively support the United Nations Ocean Decade, focusing on SDG 14 (Life Below Water) to promote marine conservation. By partnering with marine biologists and researchers, including those from the UN Ocean Decade, we aim to enhance ecosystem restoration and contribute to climate change mitigation efforts. Through collaborative projects and advocacy, we strive to protect and preserve marine biodiversity, aligning our actions with global sustainability goals to ensure a healthier future for our oceans.
SUPPORT FOR THE RESERVA30.ORG
Initiated by Vellmari Association to protect 30% of the Mediterranean Sea, we actively support the petition by reserva30.org. This initiative aims to preserve biodiversity and promote sustainable marine management practices. Our advocacy aligns with global efforts under the United Nations Ocean Decade, ensuring a healthier marine environment for generations to come.
30x30 CHALLENGE:
CONNECTING HUMANITY WITH THE OCEAN
Connecting humanity with the ocean by promoting the protection of 30% of our oceans by 2030. Our initiatives align with this challenge by fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of marine ecosystems through multidisciplinary and artistic engagements.
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
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collaborators & partners
EARTHPERCENT.ORG
Founded by Brian Eno, focusing on leveraging music to support environmental causes. EarthPercent is our beneficiary donor.
Outreach: Amplifies our environmental message through collaboration with a respected organization in the music industry, attracting attention and support from influential artists and audiences.
VELLMARI ASSOCIATION / RESERVA30.ORG
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.
MUTEK.ORG
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.
OPENLAB.FM
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.
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“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.”
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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.
RAFAEL ANTON IRISARRI
GRAND RIVER
SOFIE BIRCH
PATRICIA WOLF
KAZUYA NAGAYA
MARTA DE PASCALIS
DRUM & LACE
COCO FRANCAVILLA
Coming Up
SUZANNE CIANI
CATERINA BARBIERI
TELEFON TEL AVIV
KMRU
LOSCIL
MARY LATTIMORE
BENDIK GISKE
STEVE HAUSCHILDT
IMAGINARY SOFTWOOD (EMERALDS)
ABUL MOGARD
ANA ROXANNE
HELEN VOGELSINGER
FRANZ ROSATI
MORE ARTISTS TBA
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There will be several photographers contributing to the project for the Posidonia photo-book and imagery assets.
One of the photographer invited to the project is Manu San Felix. National Geographic explorer and marine biologist, Manu is a renowned photojournalist who has dedicated his life to researching and caring for the natural world, specifically the underwater environment.
Since the 1980s, the reporter has been fighting to protect and call attention about the Posidonia. He’s also the creator of the PosidoniaMaps App, a cartography project to protect the Mediterranean.
He’s the founder of The Vellmari Association, a place that works to unite marine conservation, research, communication and education with the aim of raising awareness and helping to respect our seas and oceans.
Manu has been in the "Pristine Seas" team for more than ten years, a National Geographic project dedicated to researching, disseminating and raising awareness for the conservation of our planet.
Another photographer invited to take part in the project is Lorenzo Melissari.
Born in Sicily and based in Ibiza since many years, Lorenzo grew up with the sea inside of his heart. Committed to raise awareness about Posidonia since he fell in love with it in the Balearic Island, he’s been dedicating his artistic experience to explore underwater poetic imageries of the Posidonia meadows in connection with human body, with a an evocative and dream-like approach.
Artists coming to Ibiza will be exploring Posidonia marine site with Lorenzo , and will be taken into a mesmerizing photographic journey as well as and an occasion for field-recordings.
photography
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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 by Eduardo Navarro
Music by Grand River
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.
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The Expeditions with Artists - photos by Coco Francavilla
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The Artists in the Studio - photos by Coco Francavilla
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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.