Aven refers to that which is hidden, yet still is heard: underground shafts through which air reaches the surface.  Fascinated by Iceland’s natural geothermal activity, Bethan Kellough recorded the subterranean rumbles and upper-level hisses, and augmented them with wind recordings made in Iceland and South Africa.  Only the very trained ear will be able to distinguish the difference between South African wind and Icelandic wind (Savannah bush, strands of straw), but neither identification nor deception is her intention.  This soundscape is inspired by the very nature of sound.

While field recordings are the lead story, the artist also plays violin.  Her gentle strings allow her to shape the soundscape into a personal reflection.  What do you hear in these sounds? she asks without words.  What drama can be heard in rising rumbles and twists of wind?  To escape through a shaft from an underground cave is to act out a myth…