I.N.S.E.C.T. 2024

The Bidstrup Forrest

Hvalsø, Denmark

At I.N.S.E.C.T. Summercamp 2024 we delved deeper into multi-species relationships by focusing on insect biotremology, or vibration. Insects use vibration for communication, mating and location purposes. Some of this is audible by humans, but most is not. Biotremologists have found novel ways of recording and sonifying these signals to study them.

Field Observations and species encounters

Our field and lab time focused on finding and recording specific insects who are known to use vibration communication.

Vibration Mechanism Experiments

In order to better understand insect vibration mechanisms, we worked in groups to try to emulate these mechanisms in different materials. There are four basic types of vibration — drumming, tymbal, stridulation and tremulation. Insects use parts of their bodies to produce vibration and then transfer that to a substrate such as a plant stem which then sends the signal to a nearby specimen.

Mapping Companion Species

We continued refining our mapping methodologies, again focused on biotremology.

Embodiment Mediations

We also continued refining embodiment meditations, using body sonification to attune our bodies to vibrational signals within ourselves.

FoodScapes

Foraging experiencel from 2023 turned into its own Foodscapes focus group, which incorporated edible plants, cooking experiments and communal mealtime into the immersive experience of the camp.

Insect Summercamp 2024 Members and Photographers: Alena Graham, Alexandra Samandar, Anneke ter Schure, Anton Poikolainen Rosén, Asya Ilgun, Colleen Ludwig, Felix Carros, Julia Tabet, Katka Cerna, Kristine Diekman, Melania Mihalcea, Omi-peah Ryding, Roland Mühlethaler, Svenja Kuene