The Acoustic Tunnel is an on-going project which explores ways in which entomological studies (the study of insects) can inform different ways of engaging with local histories. Focusing on the role of insects in an urban environment and how London residents can participate in creating urban futures through ecological narratives. We are reflecting on strategies of resistance in ecology, where diversity enables collective transformation, and material adaptability is key for sustainability and versatility.

Through a program of talks and workshops, we will be exploring the diversity of local insects and the materials that enable them to be some of the most adaptable species. We want to consider how anthropomorphic (human centric) perceptions of other species shape social ideas about the way we interact with the natural environment. Looking at insects in the urban landscape may offer new lenses through which to consider our own built environment and responses to crises. With a focus on metamorphosis and repair, we can find new ways of seeing materials, bodies, and labour through time. We are considering, in particular, the importance of housing and technologies in forming social patterns, and determining their plasticity.

With a site specific exhibition at the Crypt in Euston, we have explored makers and programmes in Camden Borough, as well as environmental groups in the UK, to see how these ideas interact with local histories. This project was made possible through collaboration with Camden Giving and Camden Council.

RESOURCES

1. ‘The State of the World’s Urban Ecosystems’

2. Field Studies Council

3. British Entymological and Natural History Society (BENHS)

4. London Beekeeper’s Association

5. ‘The Origins of Insect Metamorphosis’

6. Cricket Radio - ‘Tuning in the Night’

7. ‘Chronobiology - Reducing Time’

8. ‘A Century of Camden Housing’ - William Barnes, 1973

9. ‘3D Scanning a Mole Cricket’s Burrow’

10. ‘Relationships of Transformation’

11. The Journal of Hymenoptera Research

12. ‘In Defense of Plants’ - Podcast #368

13. Bugs Matter, Take part in their Survey

14. ‘Bugs Matter Survey finds that UK flying insects have declined by nearly 60% in less than 20 years

15. Summary Report of the ‘Bugs Matter Citizen Science Survey: counting insect ‘splats’ on vehicle number plates revelas a 58.5% reduction in the abundance of actively flying insects in the UK between 2004 and 2021

16. ‘A Gardener’s Guide to Butterfly Friendly Plants’ - Natural

History Museum

17. ‘How to build a log pile for insects and other wildlife to make a home’ - Natural History Museum

18. Auchenorrhyncha Recording Scheme for Britain and Ireland - Leafhoppers, planthoppers, froghoppers, treehoppers & cicadas

19. ‘GoParksCamden’

20. Walking tour through Bloomsbury Square and Gardens

21. ‘ANTENNE - Issue 3’ - PDF

22. ‘The Intimacy Machine’

23. ‘How do we treat mould and pest’ - ‘The Bookie Monster, Attack of the Creepy Crawlies’ - the British Museum

24. ‘Do bumble bees play?’ - Study and Findings

AI models of nests

THE ACOUSTIC TUNNEL

Common Wasps Nests