SKETCHES FOR D I S A P P E A R I I N G
SOUNDSCAPES BY MARKO PAUNOVIC / VIDEO BY EGLE SAKA 2023
"Sketches for D I S A P P E A R I I N G" is a profoundly immersive audiovisual journey that transcends the ordinary, inviting you to embark on a profound exploration of sight and sound. This collaborative endeavor harmoniously blends the creative energies of Egle Saka, the artist responsible for the evocative visual elements, and Marko Paunovic, the sound sculptor behind the hauntingly beautiful soundscapes.
Marko's compositions resonates with a ghostly beauty that has evolved over an extended period. Its final form was born within the hallowed confines of Radio Belgrade's Electronic Studio, where the vintage Synthi 100 synthesizer became a conduit for analog-digital magic. Magnetic tapes breathed life into the sound, preserving a timeless analog resonance. The composition is further enriched by field recordings from Croatia's islands and the mesmerizing voice of Maria Jonas performing Hildegard von Bingen, giving voice to an eerie and enigmatic soundscape.
Egle's videos, which draw inspiration from Marko's sonic narrative, create dark ambient visual companions to the soundscapes. These meticulously crafted sketches, characterized by themes of water, waves, fountains, earthly soil textures and elements of flora , weave a visual tale that mirrors the mysterious essence of ‘Sketches fo D I S A P P E A R I I N G.' In the intersection of these audiovisual elements, an intriguing dialogue between sight and sound takes shape.
The whole concept behind "Sketches for D I S A P P E A R I I N G" was conceived from the haunting story of the conceptual artist Bas Jan Ader, who disappeared into the sea during his final performance, 'In Search of the Miraculous,' in 1975. His enigmatic vanishing stirred a peculiar fascination with the mysteries of the sea and the unknown. In this upcoming album, Marko and Egle pay tribute to this conceptual artist's spirit, inviting you to contemplate the ephemeral and the mysterious, creating a harmonious fusion of sound and vision, one that evokes the spirit of Ader's compelling and unresolved disappearance. In this profound experience, 'Sketches for D I S A P P E A R I I N G' encourages deep listening and meditative exploration, guiding you through a unique introspective journey.
Sketch No. 1
1. the compositional process is based on the reduction and repetition of the musical material.
1.1. anticipating the running of waves (always the same, yet always different) the ostinato line (tape-recorded track) is derived by placing (and placing again) differently-pitched layers into a repetitive counterpoint order.
7. not an homage, but a consecration.
7.1. to bas jan ader
7.1.1 and his (certainly non-narrative!) (odyssey-like) journey (no return) ’in search of the miraculous’.
[visual] - Visual narrative mirrors the ceaseless ocean, birthing and fading eternally – a perpetual circadian rhythm. [visual] - All videos have been re-scanned from old VHS tapes and captured with unique imperfections due to tape decay.
Sketch No. 2
2. although fragmented, the form can be observed as circular (whirling).
2.1. the repetition of practically identical pitches in the same octave position does not imply the experience of the music flow staticity.
2.1.1. the rejection of the imposed direction of movement may refer to a peculiar “monotony of moving still” (non-narrativity).
2.2. a single musical supstance fulfills the piece in its entirety (accumulation) (harmony).
2.2.1. a fragment acquires the meaning of the whole.
2.3. the time dimension is depersonalised (relativised) (positioned exclusively within the ephemeral moment (now)).
7. not an homage, but a consecration.
7.1. to bas jan ader
7.1.1 and his (certainly non-narrative!) (odyssey-like) journey (no return) ’in search of the miraculous’.
[visual] - This segment delves into the tactile world of soil, exploring its texture in monochromatic black and white. A visual journey through meditative walks over land that once lay beneath the sea.
[visual] - All videos have been re-scanned from old VHS tapes and captured with unique imperfections due to tape decay.
Sketch No. 3
3. chromatic (psychonavigational) sound whirl achieved by inciting the affective ((and) unconscious) contents imposes the role of an active participant on the listener.
3.1. ‘ ... the listener only perceives the models (or events) in sequence, concurrently trying to depict the context of the proposed musical continuum on their own. at some point during the listening, the diffuse attention of the listener, a result of the constant expectation of a shift in the music flow, emerges as an experience of ‘saturation’ which forces the listener to listen in a different manner, ‘from the start’.’
7. not an homage, but a consecration.
7.1. to bas jan ader
7.1.1 and his (certainly non-narrative!) (odyssey-like) journey (no return) ’in search of the miraculous’.
[visual] - Abstract exploration of the blurred world of flora, resembling the duality in perception. Twin windows mirror distinct but parallel inversions, revealing the essence of dualities within life itself.
[visual] - All videos have been re-scanned from old VHS tapes and captured with unique imperfections due to tape decay.
Sketch No. 4
4. the sound landscape (especially in live performances) is complemented by various sound stimuli (submarine recordings, field recordings of a distinctly pastoral character, electro-acoustic clippings...).
4.1. through the presence, getting closer and moving away, thickening and diluting, the composition obtains a specific spatial dimension.
4.1.1. especially relying on the physical characteristics of the performance ambience.
4.1.2. especially during the event.
4.2. noise (as (well as the) silence) is an integral part of the sound space texture.
7. not an homage, but a consecration.
7.1. to bas jan ader
7.1.1 and his (certainly non-narrative!) (odyssey-like) journey (no return) ’in search of the miraculous’.
[visual] - Subtle movements and the dance of underwater life draw the viewer into an immersive underwater experience, allowing them to become one with the watery surroundings. The captivating flow and patterns of a school of fish shape the visual narrative, guiding the observer on an aquatic journey that represents the deep waters of ones inner world.
[visual] - All videos have been re-scanned from old VHS tapes and captured with unique imperfections due to tape decay.
Sketch No. 5
5. ’defrosting’ of voice (hildegard von bingen (performed by maria jonas)) ((and thus) setting into the (performative) scene framework) adds to the intimate-religious character of the composition.
5.1. a shift from the text towards the hint (((intuitive) (suggestive)) (non-narrative) ambience)
5.1.1. is an attempt to set the piece into an imaginary order where (symbolic) meanings are torn out of the power field.
7. not an homage, but a consecration.
7.1. to bas jan ader
7.1.1 and his (certainly non-narrative!) (odyssey-like) journey (no return) ’in search of the miraculous’.
[visual] - The viewer drifts above the enigmatic, dark, and wondrous water reflections, entranced by the intricate ripples, perhaps seeking a mirror image of the self. Following the mesmerizing ripples to the fountain's edge, where ripples transform into endless droplets, falling back into themselves, forming a circle that continually replenishes the waters. This fountain's infinite concept suggests that it mirrors the formless and endless ocean of consciousness, the unified field of existence.
[visual] - All videos have been re-scanned from old VHS tapes and captured with unique imperfections due to tape decay.
Sketch No. 6
6. a fragment represents the thematic basis.
6.1. a fragment in repetiton (duration) represents its transpositions (continuum).
6.2. a fragment in repetiton (duration) is subject to transformative operations (’chance operations’).
6.2.1. the amplified sound (synthesized into a whole) moves towards variability in its own flow.
6.3. the ultimate sound content, almost from the very beginning, is being stored in the listener’s perception.
6.3.1. retaining the primary form (during the repetition (of the microtonal development (of the theme))), it remains unaltered (code confirmation).
6.3.1.1. the repetition is a reminder is a start anew.
6.3.1.1.1. and anew.
6.4. conceived as infinite 6.4.1. the composition acquires its ultimate form (only (after the end)) in the listener’s consciousness.
7. not an homage, but a consecration.
7.1. to bas jan ader
7.1.1 and his (certainly non-narrative!) (odyssey-like) journey (no return) ’in search of the miraculous’.
[visual] - The sea's horizon symbolizes the formless boundary, an entrance to consciousness. At its center lies a winding path, overgrown with mossy textures, leading to the edge of the horizon. It suggests that the viewer doesn't physically traverse the path but mentally guides themselves through it toward the expansive horizon. This piece invites deep meditative observation of the boundless ocean, creating a unique space for introspective reflection.
[visual] - All videos have been re-scanned from old VHS tapes and captured with unique imperfections due to tape decay.
COLLECTION OF VIDEO EDITING COLLABORATIONS WITH THE PARTIZAN OF ANALOGICAL FORCE RECORD LABEL ///
DR TROUSERS / INVISIBILIUM
2023 ALBUM
RECORD LABEL: OWLRIPPER RECORDINGS, CZECHIA //
Here are series of music videos meticulously crafted for Dr Trousers' recent album, "INVISIBILIUM," available on Owlripper Recordings in Orlová, Czechia.
This musical odyssey navigates through expansive, tense, and inventive soundscapes, occasionally delving into shadows, and consistently flowing with an otherworldly essence.
The collection comprises six videos, each corresponding to a track on the album. Notably, each track is named after the Five Rivers of the Greek Underworld, presided over by Hades. Envision a realm of the deceased, complete with somber meadows, fruit-bearing trees, and the mystique of five rivers — Styx, Lethe, Archeron, Phlegethon, and Cocytus.Drawing inspiration from the unique characteristics of these rivers, I crafted visuals for each video.
TRACK 1 - Ōceanus
Herein lies an intriguing addition — the sixth river, Ōceanus.
Symbolizing the eternal flow of time, it circumvents the earth disc, intertwining the realms of the living and the deceased. This cosmic concept manifests as a perpetual textural black hole, employing the mesmerizing video feedback technique.
Embark on a journey through the enigmatic INVISIBILIUM, where every track unveils a new facet of mystery and allure.
TRACK 2 - Lēthē
Step into the mystic realm of Lethe, the river of forgetfulness and unmindfulness, as we journey through the profound landscapes inspired by its ancient Greek origins.
Named after the Greek word for "oblivion" or "forgetfulness," Lethe's waters induce a complete erasure of memory. In the realm of the deceased, shades were compelled to drink from Lethe to obliterate all recollections of their earthly existence.
According to Plato, excessive consumption led to forgetfulness of all things, emphasizing the potent nature of Lethe's influence. Flowing around a cave where Hypnos, the god of sleep, resided, the river emitted a characteristic murmuring sound that induced drowsiness.
Picture Lethe winding through the Fields of Asphodel—endless meadows where ordinary souls, neither virtuous nor wicked, aimlessly wander, their identities lost in the vast fields.
In this visual interpretation, darkness prevails, accompanied by subtle noise and minimal light. The landscape features black grass, stunted poplar trees, and fallen stalagmites, setting the stage for a surreal journey through the liminal space of Lethe.
As millions of lost souls aimlessly gather for a concert that never begins, the atmosphere becomes a captivating embodiment of forgotten memories and the deep currents of Lethe's influence.
TRACK 3 - COCYTUS
Embark on an ethereal journey into the haunting depths of Cocytus, the River of Wailing, as the sonic landscape of Invisibilium takes a progressively darker and more eerie turn. In this analog dreamscape, hidden black streams weave through the abyss, mirroring the album's descent into deeper realms.
Cocytus is distinctively described as a frozen lake or swamp rather than a conventional river, originating from the same infernal source as its counterparts. The darkness intensifies, creating cold wavelets that ripple through the dreamscapes, embodying the chilling essence of Cocytus.
For the souls refused passage by Charon, the boatman of the Underworld, due to their inability to pay the fee with gold or coins, the riverbank of Cocytus becomes their eternal wandering grounds.
Within this visual interpretation, the analog dreamscapes become a haunting reflection of the forsaken souls trapped along the icy shores of Cocytus, where cries and lamentations echo through the frozen waters.
TRACK 4 - ACHERōN
Embark on an otherworldly journey to the banks of Acheron, the River of Pain and gateway to the Underworld, as Invisibilium unfolds its dark tapestry.
Acheron, both a physical and metaphysical boundary, stood as an impassable barrier between the mortal realm and the mysteries of the Underworld.In the mythic expanse of Acheron, Charon, the enigmatic ferryman, navigated the souls across its somber waters on a skiff.
Payment, symbolized by coins placed in the eyes or mouth during funeral rites, determined passage. Those unable to afford the journey were consigned to wander the desolate shores of Acheron, potentially manifesting as ghosts in the mortal world.The spectral essence of Acheron, located in the Epirus region of northwest Greece, transcends time.
Even today, walking its ancient banks evokes a profound sense of awe, standing at the precipice between life and death. Though I've not physically trodden these hallowed grounds, I've dreamt of them through my analog lens. Have you ventured into the haunting embrace of Acheron's realm?
TRACK 5 - STYX
Immerse yourself in the enigmatic currents of Styx, a river of divine oaths and endless textures, as the Invisibilium journey delves into its cold, shuddering waters.
According to ancient beliefs, the river's potent waters were deemed poisonous and capable of dissolving any vessel, save one crafted from the hoof of a horse.
Styx, later identified with the stream known as Mavronéri ("Black Water"), holds a mystical aura that transcends time. Dipping one's body into these shadowy depths was said to bestow the gift of immortality.
A renowned example is the demigod Achilles, whose mother, Thetis, submerged him into the river, holding him by the heel. This act rendered him invulnerable, save for his Achilles' heel—a vulnerability later exploited by Apollo.
The echoes of Styx resonate through history, weaving into the fabric of myth and reality.
TRACK 6 - PHLEGETHōN
Embark on a chromatic journey through the fiery depths of the River Phlegethon, where hues of 🔴 RED 🔴 collide with the haunting melodies of Invisibilium.
As I delved into the mysteries of this river, a vivid tapestry of black and white unfolded, revealing a nuanced interplay of fiery darkness and luminous light. May you immerse yourself in the textural waves that traverse the essence of Phlegethon.
Phlegethon, known as the river of fire, takes on various interpretations, with Plato describing it as a stream of fire encircling the earth and descending into the depths of Tartarus.
Dante, in his epic Inferno, envisioned Phlegethon as a river of blood, its relentless boil a punishment for souls who committed severe crimes in their earthly existence. Each soul, assigned a specific level within the boiling river of fire, faces retribution commensurate with the gravity of their transgressions.
In the haunting realm of Phlegethon, the river's fiery currents intertwine with the unfolding narrative of Invisibilium, crafting an evocative experience that transcends the boundaries of sound and vision.
THICKER THAN BLOOD // Shoulders I Stand On
Petra Haller: Composition, Improvisation, Tap Dance
Meg Morley: Composition, Improvisation, Piano
Egle Saka: analog VFX, music video edit
℗ 2023 Petra Haller
Released on: 2023-05-25
/// "Shoulders I Stand On" is Petra Haller's debut studio album and is a suite of pieces featuring the traditional Catalan Song "El cant dels ocells" as the introduction as well as the end, a number of freely improvised pieces and compositional ideas dedicated to some of her teachers, heroes, and guardian angles, people that have been very influential in her life and who's shoulders she stands on. Petra Haller and Meg Morley created this work together in London 2022, and recorded it in November 2022 at Ocean Sound Studio in Giske, Norway. The album is recorded, mixed, and mastered by Henning Svoren. Album artwork designed by Tomcat Design. ///
NEW BORDERS EP-01
Antti Lähdesmäki, Ben Rodney, Adrian Åsling Sellius, Sebastians Macats
+ Egle Saka [VISUALS]
New Borders move air through pipes, three different flows of air interacting and creating new flows laminar and turbulent, the trio becomes one dynamic organism where intricate individual changes cause unpredictable effects on the collective soundscape.
The trio’s first EP is a documentation of their countless expeditions into the shared airspace, diving deep into the vortices to find unexpected currents of repetition and stability.
The release also serves as a prelude to their upcoming LP featuring Sámi artists, scheduled to be released later 2023.
SISYPHEAN - SOVEREIGNS OF LIVID HOPE
RECORD LABEL: TRANSCENDING OBSCURITY
ALBUM: COLOURS OF FAITH
2022
Immerse into beautiful darkness and intense visual journey of life and it’s timeline of glitches.
Also visit Spotify to view a selection of canvases for the full album of COLOURS OF FAITH:
View on Spotify
Oliver ft XTR HUMAN - Leathered Storm
Label: Khoinix records
Release: Metanoia VA
Unknown Artist - We Can Dance Together
Unknown Artist – WH16
Withhold – WITHHOLD16
Vinyl, 12",
2021, Barcelona, Spain / UK
Music video: collaboration between Egle Saka [analog VFX and video editing] & Sin Of The Father [creative direction]
Original footage used is from VHS tapes containing recordings of rave parties in the UK circa 1990.
Distributed by Under The Radar: Underground vinyl distribution company carrying labels such as Furthur Electronix, Altered Sense, Planet 17, Beyond Electronix, Shakesphere, Withhold etc.. Often recognised in the engravings starting with the letters UTR
Mastered At Ballyhoo Studio / Johanz Westerman