Enej Gala, Tomi Novak: Sapnik / Trachea

The Sapnik/Trachea spatial-sound installation in the Kostanjevica tunnel is emerging as a dialogue between visual artist Enej Gala and musician Tomi Novak.

Sapnik/Trachea is a multimedia art project that sees the two tunnels beneath Kostanjevica as a metaphorical trachea and esophagus—passageways through which trains, cyclists, and pedestrians flow from both sides of the hill. The installation, dedicated to wind instruments powered by air, creates a unique visual and sonic experience and encourages interaction with passersby along the pedestrian section of one of the tunnels.

Light wind sculptures hang above visitors’ heads, stretched across a wire mesh. The hanging sculptures respond to the movement of air currents, creating a living soundscape in dialogue with Tomi Novak’s musical composition, which fills the tunnel space through two loudspeakers. Inspired by paper kites, wind chimes, and kinetic sculptures from various cultures, the installation expands the expressive possibilities of contemporary puppetry within the tunnel’s specific, acoustically and atmospherically rich environment.

The soundscape transforms the experience of this transit space into a spontaneous sound theatre that accompanies those who pass through. At the same time, the installation reflects on historical eras and the symbolism of the tunnel over time, questioning themes from prehistoric caves to the most modern tunnels that have always driven humanity to reshape nature in one way or another.

The project is led by GONG Gallery and is part of GO! 2025 official programme.