The Listenn Project: Acoustic Ecologies of the American Southwest Desert(s) and Transmedia Dissemination

Abstract

The Listenn Project explores remote embodied experiences of natural environments through sound. It focuses on community awareness, and sustainability, studying how rich digital media environments and acoustic ecology practices can be used to broaden discussion about the value of precious, yet fragile environments. It explores how virtual ecological engagement through sound can nurture environmental awareness and community agency. This paper introduces the conceptual grounding for the project and the preliminary outcomes from conducting two feld laboratories in the American Southwest deserts. The proposed outcomes include immersive virtual reality experiences of being present in such natural environments without needing to travel and without degrading them by visitation. The prototype integrates a clear accessibility strategy and consists of a dynamic website, immersive sound installations and two mobile phone apps permitting direct community input and embodied remote walking experiences that could bring the acoustic ecologies of the American Southwest deserts to global audiences.