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Since the seminal writings of C P Snow there has been a recognition in Britain that there is a cultural divide between arts and science. In order to provide a better understanding between both sides of the community an innovative approach was required. In 1997 the British Antarctic Survey, the Festival Hall and the Philharmonia Orchestra commissioned the leading British composer Sir Peter Maxwell Davis to compose a new Antarctic Symphony, to be premiered at The Festival Hall during its 50th Anniversary celebrations in May 2001. The composer was selected for his commitment to environmental issues and the commission integrated the creation of an education programme to further this theme. The initiative is both cross-disciplinary and cross-cultural, incorporating in the educational organisations chosen, a wide range of ethnic musical backgrounds as a reflection of the international co-operation that underpins and characterises Antarctic science.
Braunarts was invited to collaborate with BAS/PO/RFH to create and produce the interactive media elements of the resource and has added substantially to the moulding of the products' creative aims.
The commission of the Symphony in 1997 initiated a five year PR strategy to promote the new work, awareness of Antarctica and its scientific value and a unique meeting of science and art. The strategy includes press campaigns, a book, television documentary, photographic exhibition and radio broadcasts.
Antarctic Waves was made possible by an Education Award from NESTA (the
National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts). NESTA's role is to
support and promote talent, innovation and creativity across science,
technology and the arts.
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