Ephemerality and Performance: Sastrugi Sounds of Antarctic Sea Ice

Abstract This paper explores the research, making, and performance of Sastrugi: Sounds of Antarctic Sea Ice. Combining the techniques of sonification, field recording, and musique concrète, Sastrugi orchestrates multi-sensory world building for the audience where immersive soundscapes, data-driven violin composition and visuals narrate the poignant tale of vanishing sea ice in the Antarctic and Southern Ocean. In the face of a record-breaking year for Antarctic sea ice in 2023, this project emerged as a vital testament to the Earth’s changing climate and highlights the power of creative approaches for engaging audiences with science and vast amounts of data.