MEDIATHEK

In 2006, Karl Van Welden initiated United Planets, a cycle of visual and performative work based on terrestrial or human presence in the universe. How does humankind relate to the immensity of the universe? Using the planets in our solar system as anchor points, he searches for artistic answers to this fundamental question. Within the cycle United Planets, the MARS series gauges human resistance against great physical forces.
 
 In the musical performance MARS II – in situ Karl Van Welden explores the impact of volcanic ash on the performance of pianist Frederik Croene and the sound he produces, playing on an automated piano. MARS II – in situ examines a moment of catastrophe and the pianist’s reactions to drastic changes in his environment. At the outset, volcanic ash particles fall gently and harmlessly. After a while, the amount of dark volcanic ash raining down on the musician and his instrument increases exponentially, slowly but surely transforming the sound and the image. An exploration of the contrasting effects between a moment of bliss, the strike of disaster, and its aftermath.
 
 Instead of MARS II, the in situ version (MARS II – in situ) is site specific and plays out in a transparent box (5m/5m/5m). The public can sit and move around the box during the performance. In 2018 Karl Van Welden released the artist record 'MARS II, the vinyl' on the label Metaphon. The 2LP set in hardboard gatefold with black linen is a limited edition and contains the music of MARS II.