Brekekekex, ko-ax, ko-ax!

This installation is a synthetic-ecological system that is constantly listening. It is primarily composed of a population of frogs. Among other species, there is the typical San Sebastian frog, Hyla meridionalis subsp. synthetica.

Depending on the calendar and a number of environmental factors like temperature and humidity, it displays different, spontaneous, and non-human dynamics and behaviours that can be perceived through listening. This leads us to understand the installation as a living organism.

Likewise, the installation proposes a reflection on silence, listening, the spontaneity of sound events, and sound as a sign.

At the same time, it is also an investigation into the habits and dynamics of this species of tree frog. What factors lead a frog to break the silence and emit a sound? What dynamics lead to the formation of a frog chorus? What characteristics does this sound have and what do they mean to us?

Information

From 12th February until 26th July 2026 (10:00 am -21:00 pm)
Main Staircase of Tabakalera (San Sebastián)

Recordings made with AudioMoth and “synthesized” to create one-of-a-kind sound objects and events.

Project in collaboration with: Team Open Acoustic Devices, Aranzadi Science Society & 11 Hamaiketako Kultur Elkartea.

Acknowledgement: María del Pilar Nieto Bueno, Ivonne Villamil, Raúl Ruiz, Olatz San Sebastián, Xabi Rubio, Jaime de los Ríos, Alba Fernández, Rubén Jurado y familia, Miquel Gatell, Gloria Bosch, Zoe, Lua e Itzel. Tania Cavada, Lur Alkorta, Iñaki Alkorta, Mari Jose Andoaga & Maixux Ibañez.

Related events

Night listening at Tabakalera by Mikel R. Nieto.

Press

Kulturklik
Noticias de Gipuzkoa
Diario Vasco
Gente Digital
Irutxulo
Naiz
Planomato
Tabakalera
Aranzadi
Euskadi Irratia