Hearing from the Dolphin
Zhang Hong Jie
Taiwan / Col / 29'00" / In Mandarin with Chinese and English subtitles
Hundreds of offshore wind turbines are being built in close proximity to the habitat of endangered white dolphins, as a cetacean scholar tries to find a balance between development and marine ecology.
Artist's Statement
Humans living in noisy environments for extended periods undoubtedly experience noticeable effects, both physically and psychologically. How could other organisms not be affected? While humans can vocalize and protest for their rights, how can whales and dolphins, unable to speak, advocate for their right to survive? I aim to use this piece to allow the audience to experience the sounds dolphins hear and witness their experiences.
Juror's Comment
Unpretentious, direct and sincere, this work conveys the threat to the lives of dolphins caused by the construction of wind turbines. The determined protagonist advocates for the protection of dolphins and joins hands with workers to save them one by one. He knows that it is extremely difficult to reverse the situation, but he still tries his best, which is touching. (Adam Wong)
