An observation of wonder and intrigue, Deep Breath explores our relationship with nature in the presence of ocean giants. Throughout this silent journey, we encourage you to reflect on the vastness, abundance, and fragility of the natural world. It is a journey to understand our place within nature and the profound impact it has on our sense of self, belonging, and personal well-being.
❛The ocean is a living paradox of calm and chaos.❜
In the presence of sperm whales, you are drawn into an experience that is both humbling and awe-inspiring. These majestic creatures, with their deep, resonant calls and graceful movements, command a quiet reverence, reminding us of the ancient life that pulses beneath the ocean’s surface.
To witness them is to be in the company of one of nature’s most intelligent and enigmatic beings, inviting a moment of reflection on our own place within the vastness of the natural world.
Immerse yourself in this visual journey, free from external voices or guided narratives-simply an open invitation to pause, reflect, and experience a moment of quiet introspection.
❛In the end we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand; and we will understand only what we are taught.❜ - Baba Dioum
Humanities imposed order on nature often obscures the innate harmony that exists within its complexity. In understanding the world around us, we cultivate empathy and resilience, allowing us to connect more deeply with others, embrace challenges and act with purpose to protect the environment that sustains us.
This awareness not only deepens our appreciation for the beauty and complexity of nature but also inspires a shared responsibility to safeguard it for future generations.
The Trip to São Miguel
Matthew and Pierre had a clear vision of what they wanted to create and the visual narrative of an individual immersive themselves in the ocean. They didn't know quite how they were going to capture this story, but São Miguel in Azores was the place to start.
With the amazing support of Futurismo Azores Adventures, a research and tourist company, we were able to get out to sea on a number of occasions to film the remarkable cetaceans around São Miguel.
To undertake this trip we were required to submit a permit request with the Azores Government. It is illegal to swim with whales in the Azores for anything other than permitted research, for obvious reasons. We had to follow a strict process to consider their disruption and ethics. Each trip was accompanied by experts and marine biologists, with the safety of marine life being the top priority.
On this trip we were able to record large sections of the film, the vast landscape providing surreal backdrops for us to film our marine biologist, Zuzanna exploring in the wild. With our permit secured we were also able to film the most important part of the film; the observation of sperm whales as they interact.
“We have focused on sperm whales, highly intelligent and caring marine mammals that are playful and majestic. While filming we witnessed their playful nature, their breaching acrobatics and the deep bonds they share.
The subject of this film is to primarily create an abstract observation of human emotion and the impact the ocean can have on our minds. ”
⚠️ According to the regional legislation, swimming with whales and other cetaceans that are not dolphins is forbidden in the Azores. This work was performed under the authorization n° 03-ORAC-2023 issued by the Government, on the date: 22/04/23.
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A massive thank you to Futurismo for helping make this happen | www.futurismo.pt/
Featuring Zuzanna Soltysiak
Filmed and edited by Pierre Ehmann and Matthew Stockreiter
Composed by Josh Moore | China Aster