Anna Khvyl:

    Still Present as you notice its absence  - AudioWalk

This audiowalk reflects on Rotterdam’s identity through the personal experiences of being a tourist, a migrant, and a local. Traversing the border between the parts of the city which were rebuilt after World War Two and those which were left intact, Kyiv-born artist Anna Khvyl and Rotterdam-based Katía Truijen engage in a dialogue about the urban landscape. As we move alongside them, we listen to musical compositions made from field recordings of Rotterdam's sounds—those initially inaudible to the human ear—mixed with fragments of personal conversations and audio diaries. 

We closely explore one of the world’s largest ports, connected by water to distant places and lives thousands of kilometres away. By examining the similarities and differences between the wartime experiences of Rotterdam and Kyiv, the artist poses questions about each city’s conception of self. The walk invites us to join Khvyl on a very personal journey, listening closely to the city, observing its ongoing negotiation with water, and exploring its suppressed memories.

We will walk together on Saturday 9th November, 11am-1pm. Please bring a pair of headphones and a smartphone. We will use the TRACKS app, which is available to download for free here. 

The audio piece will be available from the beginning of Field Recordings on the TRACKS app, and you are welcome to do the walk at any time. 

Starting point: Coolsingel 120 (next to the exit from metro Beurs)
End point: Leuvehaven water taxi stop
Tickets include a water taxi ride.