Syn/Sym is the sister project of the Alien Kin, focused on durational iterations that mimic biological diurnal cycles. It mixes synthesis and symbiosis: the production of chemical or electrical compounds by reaction from simpler materials, and the interaction between two different organisms living in close physical association, typically to the advantage of both. Syn/Sym uses additive and subtractive synthesis from Coupigny, Serge, and Buchla instruments, and draws from a deep and slow practice of environmental listening. Base materials for composition are 24-hour recordings in various locations, so far: southern Germany, southern France, Thailand.

To quote Lynn Margulis: “Life produces fascinating ‘designs’ … by repeating the chemical cycles of its cellular growth and reproduction. Order is generated by nonconscious repetitious activities…” (Symbiotic Planet, 1999).

A first version of SYN / SYM was presented at the independent arts venue Cala Raum in Berlin in November 2023 as an immersive installation. A miniature soundsystem was built of simple speaker drivers, clay bodies, and river cane resonators

SYNSYM, a multichannel installation by Diane Barbé
images by Selu Herraiz
video edited by Diane Barbé

Special thanks to Farah Hazim, Kirstine Elisa Kjeldsen, Julian Spaan, Mariana Carvalho, Amelie Wedel, Maya Avnat.

Cala Raum, Berlin, 16-26 November 2023.
Funded by Senatsverwaltung für Kultur und Gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalt, Arbeitsstipendien Klangkunst.