Acclaimed opera composer and performer Kamala Sankaram has been named the 2023 Artist in Residence for the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The Garden has commissioned a new work from Sankaram that will be presented as part of their programming for the Power of Trees. The commission will make its premiere in the Garden on September 30 and October 1, 2023.
Sankaram will spend upwards of 200 hours in the Garden exploring BBG’s collection of trees in preparation for her piece. Visitors are encouraged to join her in creating a soundscape of the community around the Garden on Aug. 15. Publicly sourced sounds used in the piece can include singing, running water, birdsong, frogs and thunder.
“Creating work focused on the sounds of the natural world is incredibly meaningful to me,” said Sankaram. “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to immerse myself in the Garden and further connect with the community in and around New York City. I can’t wait to amplify the sounds of one of the most extraordinary gardens in the country.”
Sankaram has been praised by the Washington Post as “one of the most exciting opera composers in the country.” She has crafted immersive soundscapes in Prospect Park and Van Cortlandt Park, championing the urban forests across New York.
“Kamala’s residency brings another exciting, artistic facet to Power of Trees,” said Adrian Benepe, president and CEO of Brooklyn Botanic Garden. “She will bring a thoughtful, innovative perspective to these extraordinary natural ‘machines,’ and offer visitors a greater appreciation for all they do.”
Tickets for the commissioned musical performances on Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 are free with Garden admission.
