Alarm System 179757

When is the non-human wanted/unwanted? Alarm System 179757 was the materialization of an audio-explorative design journey into the intricate historical intersection of ecology and technology in Reykjavík. The project particularly focused on the once sentimental human connection to '179757' (Common Blackbird, Turdus merula), a present yet seemingly unheard voice within the local soundscape.

Technology facilitated the arrival of humans to Iceland. It also played a role in the deliberate introduction of 179757 to Iceland. Historical records from the early 20th century suggest that this introduction was likely driven by aesthetic and sentimental motivations, as an effort to Europeanize the Icelandic fauna.

A relationship built on a joint venture to an uncharted land now echoes as a faint memory in contemporary society. Presented as an immersive installation, Alarm System 179757 aims to prompt contemplation on themes such as non-human/human relationships, ecological intentions, the subtle alarms within the soundscape, and exponential technological innovation escalating surveillance and data-gathering, affecting both humans and non-humans alike.