Based on more than human language, interspecies language, plant communication (bio-acoustics) this session introduces communication beyond words, communication through connection with sound and vibration, inspired by the language of bees. This practice consists of reciting collectively a poem in the language of nature and was created together with artist Stefaan van Biesen who made a visual score of buzzing sounds written by poet Geert Vermeire.

Bee language is a language beyond sound, it is mostly spatial and vibrational. Its syntax is based on something very different from human language: the type, frequency, angle and amplitude of vibrations made by the bees, as they move through space. In the case of bees they move in an 8 pattern. Stefaan van Biesen and Geert Vermeire invite the public to walk - immersing and vibrating in nature while listening to what is around them. The language of bees happens through nuanced movements, sounds and vibrations that are hardly hearable and subtle. This exercise is exactly about relating with nature and other humans as part of this nature, vibrating and listening carefully. In the video demonstrating the exercise, poet Geert Vermeire “conducts” a visual score made by Stefaan van Biesen. The group of participants recite each one of 14 buzzing sounds till they vibrate as one. The exercise is spontaneous, the score is an invitation to listen and to be in the outdoors, resonating as much with the others present as with the place, and as such different each time.  

tools necessary for the activity: You need a white card for each participant, pens and paper. Each of the participants writes down sounds in alphabetic letters, representing for them different expressions of the vibrating language of bees. The final selection of sounds are written on a small card that the participant will read and recite. The workshop leader begins the session with inviting each participant to recite his personal sound and lets him/her experimenting with the sounds till it vibrates. The workshop leader has a paper in front of him listing all the sounds. For the final performance he will "conduct" the group appointing one by one, and after groups of participants, to recite the sounds, and regulate the volume of the participants by gestures. This continues till the group vibrates as one. Have fun!