Absence / Presence is a spatial inquiry that takes place in twelve different locations throughout the foothills of northern California in the landscape of the former Gold Rush. It is comprised of 65 discrete sound pieces; scientific data, scholarship, poetry, politics, field recordings, fragments, recollections, and conflicting perspectives. Our initial objective was archeological. Standing in the ruins of a one hundred and fifty year old abandoned placer mine the clearest feeling is absence. These mines are now located in the middle of regenerating forests. The sound project evolved into a contemporary examination of inter-relations. In this region where the myths of Manifest Destiny are embedded in the material landscape it is possible to experience the present and the absent at the same time. Remnants like bunkers and dams co-exist in the local with pot-growers, barbers, timber-fallers, poets and the homeless.
What gives meaning to landmarks? How do we reorganize landscape? As you listen, the mind wanders and returns only to find that time has passed–and there are gaps. There are no images or distinct narratives to serve as guideposts. Absence / Presence unfolds more like a poem, rather than a story, wherein each participant must find his or her own way—
