‘Seal laments’ and other natural sounds of the Holy Island landscape – recorded by legendary Frozen Planet sound recordist Chris Watson – have been transcribed into a cello composition inspired by famous cellist Guilhermina Suggia, who often stayed at Lindisfarne Castle. This immersive sound piece, created with renowned cellist Gyda Valtysdottir, has been installed within the Castle, with accompanying objects, nature writing, and a text projection that claims to ‘translate’ the seal song as a playful yet grave warning of climate catastrophe.
This sound walk allows the sound to be heard on the path up to the Castle and throughout the surrounding area, similar to the way that Suggia's performances were often heard by islanders listening by the Castle's open windows.
The Castle exhibition is open from 5th March to 30th October 2022.
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lindisfarne-castle
With thanks to all who have contributed to the work, and to Arts Council England, Lindisfarne Castle, The National Trust, Maltings (Berwick), Arts and Heritage, Newcastle University and New Writing North.