Imagine a world where the beating of bat wings becomes a symphony, a reminder of our connection to nature and the climate. This is the story of 'Bats and Being', an audio artwork that invites us to listen and reflect.
A City's Rhythm: The Bat's Song
In the bustling city of Geelong, a unique daily ritual unfolds. Every evening, the grey-headed flying foxes take to the skies, offering a glimpse into the natural world that often goes unnoticed in urban life. Their presence is a gentle nudge, reminding us that we are not alone in this changing climate.
The Artist's Journey: Mik Aidt's Story
Mik Aidt, a 63-year-old journalist and musician, shares his journey into the world of audio art. After years of climate advocacy through traditional media, Mik made a bold decision in 2025: to explore music as a medium for climate communication. He set himself the ambitious task of creating 52 songs, blending radio interviews with music and poetry.
Through this process, Mik discovered the power of sound. He realized that emotions and rhythms could convey messages more openly, bypassing our argumentative nature and touching something deeper within us.
Bats and Belonging: A Call to Action
When Mik saw the call for an exhibition titled 'Bats & Belonging', it resonated deeply. He recognized an opportunity to continue his artistic path, using sound to communicate care, vulnerability, and the importance of relationships.
However, finding the right story for his contribution wasn't immediate. It was during an extreme heatwave, with temperatures soaring to 41°C, that Mik's piece found its direction. Living close to Eastern Park, where the bats roost, Mik witnessed their distress. This became the heart of his audio work.
A Personal Encounter: Mik's Bat Experience
Mik has called East Geelong home for five years, and it was the nightly bat movement that truly brought him close to nature. As the sun set, hundreds of bats would fly overhead, a peaceful and majestic sight. Their slow, gliding wings and absence of noise created a calming atmosphere, a world away from the typical vampire horror stories.
A guided nature walk, organized in connection with the exhibition, further transformed Mik's perception. Hearing scientists speak passionately about the bats' lives and their unique language, where mother bats call to their babies, shifted his understanding. The bats became neighbors, gentle social beings, and Mik felt a responsibility towards them.
The Power of Presence: Bats as Timekeepers
In a world where we often disconnect from nature, the bats offer a unique connection. Their nightly movement marks the passage of time, a reminder of the ancient rhythms of the Earth. Mik describes how watching the bats gives him a sense of primeval calm, a connection to something larger than himself.
Crafting the Audio Artwork: A Journey of Senses
'Bats and Being' is a carefully crafted sound piece. Mik blends environmental recordings with the guided walk to the bats' roosting site. The introduction by Dr. Belinda Christie, a sustainability researcher, sets the tone, inviting listeners to slow down and approach with care.
The piece doesn't rush. It allows listeners to tune into a different state of mind, to feel the presence of the bats. By the time you reach the bats in the audio, you've already embarked on a journey of empathy and understanding.
Extreme Heat: A Focus on Climate Change
The extreme heat shaped the final work, bringing a clear focus on climate change. Mik describes the fear and empathy he felt for the bats, hanging exposed in the trees, unable to escape the heat. This emotion is intentionally conveyed in the audio, creating a sense of discomfort. It's a reminder that climate change is not just a distant concept but a very real, physical threat.
Beyond Ambient Nature Audio: A Call for Action
'Bats and Being' is not your typical nature recording. It's an audio artwork with a purpose. It signals that something is wrong, that climate breakdown is happening, and it's driven by our actions. This piece invites reflection and conversation, encouraging compassion for the transition to clean energy and a healthier planet.
23 Minutes of Reflection: A Gift of Time
23 minutes might seem like a long time, but Mik believes it offers an unexpected gift. It's an opportunity to shift our attention, to think beyond the daily grind. Whether you're driving, walking, or sitting on a bus, these 23 minutes can spark curiosity, about the bats, the exhibition, and our place in the world.
Belonging: A Sense of Connection
To Mik, belonging is about connection - with each other, with our surroundings, and with the living systems that support us. The bats, as fellow citizens of Geelong, offer a deep sense of warmth and community. Standing quietly near them, sharing presence, is a powerful reminder of our shared vulnerability and the importance of caring for the life around us.
Exhibition Details: 'Bats & Belonging'
'Bats & Belonging' is an exhibition that brings together artists exploring the theme of living well together, human and non-human alike. It runs from 5th to 21st February 2026, with a special opening event on 7th February. For more details, visit www.untethergallery.com.au.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of 'Bats and Being' and discover the power of listening.
