Suomenlinna Ornithological Society
Suomenlinna Ornithological Society invents new bird species with electronic birdsongs made from samples taken from a museum film about the history of the island of Suomenlinna, a Finnish sea fortress witness to scenes of conflict since the 18th century. Explosions, cannonball whistles, and grisly vocal narrations are re-shaped into the rhythms, timbres and frequencies of birdsong. The website archives the invented bird species as well as a number of real species found in Finland.
At the core of "Suomenlinna Ornithological Society" is the invention of new bird species with electronic birdsongs. The concrete sources of these birdsongs are samples taken from a museum film about the history of the island of Suomenlinna, a Finnish sea fortress witness to scenes of conflict since the 18th century. Explosions, cannonball whistles, and grisly vocal narrations are re-shaped into the rhythms, timbres and frequencies of birdsong. This transformation references the Electronic Voice Phenomenon (EVP), a supposedly paranormal occurrence where voices of the dead are heard via electronic technology.
The Society's Website archives the invented bird species as well as a number of real species found in Finland. A curious presence can also be detected by the inquisitive visitor.