August 2010
Vol.3
much more
www.aestheticsnow.com
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
W
ell done Aesthetics Now!! How exciting that you have already managed to feature an artist as successful as K-OS and have him grace the front cover of your magazine! He is such an inspiration and so down to earth. Thank you for recognising the talents of one of my favourite artists and presenting him as well as you have. I love that this magazine covers so many different artists from all different levels of success, and being an artist myself, it just goes to show that we too, are treated equally by those who really do appreciate art.
Dear Editor, It was with great pleasure that I came across your magazine in Issuu and can now understand why its ratings are so high. This magazine is truly an inspiration for all art lovers alike and I personally enjoy that it features such a diverse range of artists and events, all of which are put together so well. If I could buy this magazine at a newsstand it would definitely be my source of reading during my half hour train ride back and forth to work each day. Continue the good work! Claire Haynes
Marcello Lucino Dear Editor,
‘If they could tweet’… OMG what a brilliant idea, I absolutely love it!!! Such a fun and fantastic concept… glad to see that social networks can be used to execute such creative ideas. PLEASE have this in your magazine each month. Malaeta Tanielu
“I love that this magazine covers so many different artists from all different levels of success”
Dear Editor, Let me start by saying I know how fundamental the development of art is in the society that we populate today. To be able to bring together art in a medium like this is really something to be pleased with. Diversity in art and being aware of changing trends and modern times is always a source of education that encourages you to develop in your own personal way. For this reason I will continue as a loyal reader of this amazing magazine because not only is it physically artistic but what I take away from these articles and profiles is something that will help me grow. Thank you! John Rapliti
Dear Editor, All I have to say is wowwww! Bernadette M.
ALL READERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO WRITE TO US. HAVE YOUR WORDS PUBLISHED BY SENDING YOUR EMAILS TO letters@aestheticsnow.com
Just a big THANK YOU on creating what seems to be an agendaless online-mag. I love that you’re featuring multi-medium art. The old school realistic paintings by Kassan, the edgy graffiti style manga art by Cowdroy, a CG tribute to James Cameron. What diversity! A.N. is obviously just about the love and passion of all things beautiful and meaningful. Oh and the ‘If Only They had Twitter” piece – f*cking hilarious! Bec Foley | Manager Stanley Street Station (Eating House & Bar)
“What I take away from these articles and profiles is something that will help me grow.”
FINALLY!! A magazine that showcases a range of art on a global scale. THANK YOU!! This is exactly what I have been looking for and I have finally found it. How excellent is David Kassan, the talent and skills he has as an artist is really something that he should be proud of! CANNOT wait to read more issues, continue what you are doing because it is great!
accompanying illustrations were the perfect companions to such powerful words. I look forward to another instalment of this segment. Thanks for keeping the little used art of illustrative poetry alive! Nicole Sallo
Looking forward to Vol 3! Scott Frostley
Dear Editor, I thoroughly enjoyed the “Poetry in Motion” segment in Volume 2 of your magazine. The words were simple yet profound, and the
‘The Watchers Look’, Acrylic and wax on canvas, 112 x 112 cm
Conchita Carambano The Beginning 22 July – 5 August 2010
CONTEMPORARY 123 Hay Street, Subiaco WA 6008 OPEN Mon - Sat 9.30 - 5.00pm, Sun 11 - 4pm T (08) 9388 0067 E pip@lintonandkay.com.au www.lintonandkay.com.au/contemporary
Winter Mist, Acrylic on canvas, 91 x 91 cm
Min Woo Bang Wynne Prize Finalist Mystic Landscapes 12 – 26 August 2010 CONTEMPORARY 123 Hay Street, Subiaco WA 6008 OPEN Mon - Sat 9.30 - 5.00pm, Sun 11 - 4pm T (08) 9388 0067 E pip@lintonandkay.com.au www.lintonandkay.com.au/contemporary
FEATURES 18 THE BEAUTY OF FREEDOM
COLUMNS 46
He lets natural elements govern the movement throughout his shoots, and the final results are photographs that absolutely blow you away (no pun intended).
47
60 Take a journey into his fantasy world, learning along the way how his life developed through cinematography and art; and how this led to
70 WRITTEN UNITY
each day.
66
80
91 JACK BEATS
Beni from the well known duo talks to us about his upcoming journey to Australia for Parklife in October
90
BOOKMAN REVIEW
-
oma Patrice Some`.
110
102 SYMBIOSIS
GO GREEN: TOP ECO-FRIEDNLY PRODUCTS FOR YOUR WORK ENVIRONMENT what items we feel are idea to enhance our
the Toronto music scene and hit it hard, pushing Drake of the charts in the process.
films.
POETRY IN MOTION working together to bring visual imag-
94 BEHIND THE FAME
Nobody is perfect and somewhere along the line there is a slight slip up, or in this case full blown errors that you can find if you pay close
PHOTOGRAPHING SMOKE
Learn how to take amazing photos of incense smoke with this helpful tutorial.
76 THE VOICE OF A GENERATION
108 OOOPS... FILM ERRORS
IF THEY COULD TWEET If they could tweet, what would they say? Here’s what we would love to see when
50 TIM BURTON: MELBOURNE INVASION
He’s a big name in the dancehall and reggae industry, yet Shaggy has a depth to him that not many know about; spanning from his military history to his love for helping those less fortunate than he.
WHAT’S HOT & WHAT’S NOT
Things that make you go ‘oooh’ and the things that make you go ‘ugh’.
When an unexpected issue arises within his work Bruno transforms the problem into a
The voice of change, Boonaa is taking the world by storm and he encourages the youth with words of wisdom, power and strength.
s s
are behind the Visionary Squad names.
32 BROKEN BLISS
The event for all budding writers and poets; this is the place where words are harmoniously
5 MINUTES WITH...
111
WE RECOMMEND in all areas of the arts.
EDITORIALS 5
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Read their thoughts and share yours.
CONTENTS AUGUST 2010
VOLUME 3
VISIONARY SQUAD EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT
CONTRIBUTORS August Kleinzahler
Editor in Chief
Alexis Finch
Neville Ewers
Allison Cole
Managing Editor
Andre Hall
Simone Colosi
Catherine Lim
Copy Editor
Crimson Heart Replica
The Apostrophe
Desiree Butler
Art Director
Dutty Bookman
Neville Ewers
Jerisse De Juan
Joao Encarnacao Manifesto - Festival of Community & Culture Mohammed Langston Email info@aestheticsnow.com Website www.aestheticsnow.com
Š 2010 Aesthetics Now. All rights reserved. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without permission. Requests for permission should be made to info@aestheticsnow.com
SPECIAL
F F O % 5 2
Y IM E O N L T D E IT L IM
0414.780.232 876.442.4989 347.435.1568
“
We are always more anxious to be distinguished for a talent which we do not possess, than to be praised for the fifteen which we do possess Mark Twain
�
www.baldeva.artbook.me
“
Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear
�
Ambrose Redmoon
THE BEAUT
Y OF FREEDOM MARK MAWSON
by Simone Colosi A piece of art, despite being conceptualized in the mind of its creator, can still be interpreted in so many different ways by another viewer’s eye. While you may not understand what the artist was thinking at the time of their projecting themselves into that piece, with the help of today’s technology and a couple of clicks of your mouse, finding out is such an easy thing to do... unless of course you are searching for a bio on the photographic mastermind that goes by the name of Mark Mawson. Okay, so he doesn’t choose to have a promotional write up on his website that tells you how fantastic
a photographer he is nor does he say more than a few short words on his blog as he submits new entries – instead he lets his photography speak for him, his personality and his imagination, engaging his audience as they develop their own stories about him based on observation of his work. You only need to glance at one of his pictures, and you are faced with a powerful display of imagery that tells the magnificent story of how natural elements can come together to project a force so beautiful, achieved with a focus on movement and the concept of freedom it embodies.
THERE WAS SOME LEVEL OF EXCITEMENT THAT CAME FROM BEING IN THE THICK OF IT ALL
Mawson picked up a camera for the first time at the age of 8 and fell in love with the whole process of photography; from the clicking sound of the shutter to the excitement he felt as he received his photos once they had been developed. Always wanting to keep a camera close by subsequently, Mark progressed successfully towards becoming a photographer for the many newspapers that circulated through London, before the frustration of being limited to what he photographed finally took over and made him decide to go the route of creative photography - limitless in form and application. Though “there was some level of excitement that came from being in the thick of it all when you’re part of an interesting story”, Mark’s imagination exceeded far beyond the images he was shooting, sending him the necessary sign that would
AS LONG AS YOU LIKE WHAT YOU ARE DOING KEEP DOING IT
confirm he was ready to take a journey of transformation, allowing him to develop his amazing ideas in a way that would make him stand out above many of the rest. Now residing in Australia, Mark has created 2 particular series of photographs that all dip into one common theme, that being the ability for natural elements such as air and water to govern the movement in a photograph, allowing for each finished piece to display an essence of purity, beauty and overall boundless freedom. One series that automatically stops you in your tracks is Mark’s Aqueous photography. Dropping paint into a body of water, he captures the most exquisite forms of movement with each shot producing a myriad of results. Looking at these images you are faced with bright, bold and extremely strong colours against a pure black background, building up interesting and unique shapes through
the movement of the paint as it spreads within the water. Taking time to perfect this amazing style Mark tells us that “you see lots of ink in water and it’s quite runny, whereas I wanted something that has a lot of body to it, so I played around for a long time to get the right consistency of its movement”. Getting the consistency right is exactly what he has done, creating a series that has had so much of an impact that it has inspired him to continue with this style and develop a second Aqueous group of photographs. Another series of Mark’s photography that also touches on the notion of movement and freedom is his Underwater images. Immersing himself entirely in the process of creating amazing photos, Mark submerges into the sea with his beautiful models and lets the water caress their dresses, bodies and hair to create seductive yet very sensual imagery that is entirely governed by nature and its element of movement. Mark describes it best when he tells us that “the way the dresses
move and the girls move in the water is almost dreamlike”. They also ooze a calming aura as they are pictured so naturally in the ocean, whimsically free. The one thing we can appreciate about Mark (outside of his fantastic photography) is that he is not afraid to get down and dirty to get the right shots. Whether it’s diving into the ocean with his models to create amazing underwater images, or climbing through a window of an old “derelict shed” and not knowing if anyone is in there to take a photograph of some run down trains covered in graffiti, these little extra techniques contribute in such a powerful way, fanning the passion he has for effectively producing his images. It’s no surprise that his “love for anything that has an atmosphere to it or a feeling” has played a vital role in allowing his imagination to create imagery of the calibre seen in his photos. Mark has let freedom and the elements control many of the other series from his photography, from that of smoke and the way it moves in a gentle breeze, to the natural beauty of his portrait photography, as many of his models are projected against backdrops of nature and its physical
I PLAYED AROUND FOR A LONG TIME TO GET THE CONSISTENCY OF MOVEMENT
formation. Yet while all of his pieces are soft and of a soothing nature, they contrastingly express a strength that allows them to stand as individual photos that display a sense of boldness and personality.
YOU GO THROUGH MANY LEAN TIMES BUT I LOVE DOING IT AND I COULDN’T THINK OF DOING ANYTHING ELSE With the potential to inspire through his creative brilliance we ask Mark the usual concluding question that we ask every interviewee, as we are keen on hearing the many views of our artists on the topic, and passing that inspiration on to you our readers. When Mark was faced with the request of sharing some words of advice that would encourage others to continue fuelling their creative dreams this is what he had to say:
“Just keep doing it and the thing is with art or even photography is that it’s so subjective; one person is going to love it and the next person is not going to like it, it really stands as a personal thing. The one piece of advice I was given years ago was when I was talking to an Art Director in an advertising agency when I was just starting out and I asked him what I should put in my portfolio. He said ‘Just put in what you like. Because even if I don’t like it you can turn around and say at least you like it’. As long as you like what you’re doing, keep doing it. If you don’t like what you’re doing then there is no point doing it because it’s not going to be rewarding, if you really like it, it will encourage you to keep carrying on with it. You go through many lean times but I love doing it and I couldn’t think of doing anything else”. It only goes to show that with passion comes determination, and with determination comes the inspiration to continue to succeed. Mark Mawson, along with his amazing photography, is proof of how a love for creativity and the drive to succeed is all that you need to find yourself on a path that leads to amazing art.
BRUNO CATALANO By Simone Colosi
P
ossessing a creative mind opens endless opportunities to express yourself in an artistic way. Enveloping that imagination with a mix of determination, extreme patience and a passion that never wavers, allows those distinct concepts to develop into a piece of art that intrigues on so many levels. That is exactly what Bruno Catalano – with the assistance of his daughter Emilie – has achieved, working alongside one another to sculpt the human figure in its incomplete form, literally.
And what of this ‘unexpected incredibly original twist’? In December 2004 something extraordinary occurred. Call it a sign, or an accident (as Bruno does), it doesn’t matter. What does matter is that this sign/accident /what- ever-you-want -to-call-it marked an evolution within Bruno’s sculptures; one that has now transformed his work into what he now refers to as ‘Broken Traveller’s’.
While holding one of his sculptures Bruno noticed a flaw in the foundry; there was a hole in its stomach and the core of its trunk threatened to crumble! Having moved to France at the tender age of 10 Bruno describes his initial thoughts as ‘sickening’ and progressing through many different occupations as he had sweated hard labour and love into this before settling on a career choice at the age of piece and had grown a fond appreciation of its 30, it was the importance of everyday encounters facial structure. Turning it over and over in his hand that fostered Bruno’s love for art and contemplating how to seal it he the human form. It was only natural suddenly had a change of heart… What does matter is that the creative bones holding “Why not dig and enlarge it instead!” that this sign/accident/ his frame together would walk him in and so that is what he did, the end what-ever-you-wantthe direction of sculpting. His childhood result of which was beyond amazing. to-call-it marked an fascination with clay and his later Standing before him involvement in laborious roles as an upon its completion evolution within adult – 25 years in the electrical was a statuette Bruno’s sculptures trade which involved using his retaining an hands – would invariably uncover arm and a knack for the discipline. After enduring a challenging year-long course in modelling clay, Bruno embarked on a journey of creation; one that involved studying the human body and replicating it in sculptural form, but with an unexpected incredibly original twist. Referring to his works as ‘travellers’ Bruno underwent a process of sculpting pieces of people he knew and held close to his heart. His art; a mimic of those surrounding him – stood tall and proud, displaying boldness and strength as they filled the space within the gallery that his daughter Emilie operates.
It was the importance of everyday encounters that fostered Bruno’s love for art and the human form
“Never give up. Even if this is very common speech young artists must go ahead as far as they can to reach their own goals...�
hand carrying a suitcase, supported by a sole foot. Bruno relates, “looking on it, the piece as a whole inspired a certain strength and I decided to exhibit it. To my surprise the frail character was the first to be sold at my stand back in Marseille and I now reflect on this accident as a happy ending”. You only have to look at this sculpture to agree, and as audiences reciprocated pleasingly to what they saw, Bruno started methodically cutting up his unsold travellers.
style. And while the process doesn’t end there, the constant challenges to perfect his style within a limited time frame adds to the overall experience of creating each piece, giving Bruno the opportunity to bond with his artwork and form from its conception right through to birth.
If there’s one thing about Bruno that should inspire us all, it’s that we should be open to challenges and different obstacles that we can be faced with as artists. Be open to different ideas and occurrences because one day your tiny mistake So what is it about this accident that makes it could amount to a revelation, just as it has with so well received? Bruno’s sculptures, while aesthetically this fascinating sculptor. Bruno and Emilie offer pleasing, are reminiscent of a jig-saw puzzle, their words of encouragement “to never give up. except in this instance you don’t need all the Even if this is very common speech young pieces to see the end result. Elements of the artists must go ahead human form are strategically as far as they chosen and brilliantly arranged Each individual can to to construct a visual representation sculpture has its own of a broken soul. His sculptures personality, inviting keep you guessing as you view you to visualise what them from all angles, wondering the missing pieces how the sections come together to stand as one would look like if they were joined together statue, the elements before you playing with negative space, attracting light from all angles and casting interesting shadows through its uneven reach their own shapes. goals”. Heed this advice as Each individual sculpture has its own personality, it comes from inviting you to visualise what the missing pieces the mouths would look like if they were joined together. And of those who while the end result is a masterpiece that can have achieved be appreciated through the effort and thought reaching the heights of poured into it, the process of creation is one their creative desires, proving that the artistic ceiling is limitless when that sees Bruno following extra steps that other you have an open mind and sculptors don’t. The ladder of production is are enthusiastic about making a complex, the first rungs of which involve the stand in a very imaginative creation of several layers of elastomeric with extreme world. precision. This form of insulation becomes the mould for twelve individual casts. The next step is an application of wax which is then placed into boiling water. Here is where the extra tricky part comes in; once the wax is pulled out of the water Bruno has to quickly work at tearing and fragmenting the warm wax to create his signature
5 MINUTES WITH
Three issues in, we thought it prudent you acquaint yourself with the stellar staff of our beloved magazine. This has nothing to do with vanity. Really. Nothing at all. Watch this space for a new feature each month, guaranteed to be as eye-opening and captivating as the one before. Name: Neville Ewers Position: Chief Editor of Aesthetics Now Magazine Dream Job: Leader of the New World and Official World Cheesecake Taste Tester Concert you would love to attend: Might sound very cliché but I regret never being able to see Bob Marley perform live. Top song currently on your iTunes list: Common feat. Lauryn Hill - Retrospect For Life You have 1 hour to spend with a famous deceased, who would it be?: I think I’m most intrigued by Malcolm X , which might be seen as odd for a Jamaican What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear these words: Shaggy: The bar for the potential success of Jamaican music commercially. Tim Burton: Visionary genius, not as a director but as a creator.Just an exceptional creative mind. Mark Mawson: I have an incredible fascination with dynamic forms such as smoke dancing in a light breeze. That fascination was what originally sparked my curiosity with Mark’s photography and will always come back to that when he is mentioned. Bruno Catalano: Innovative sculptor, really original and dynamic statues. Boonaa Mohammed: Very interesting and impactful individual, one of the few true young revolutionaries I believe we have in the world right now. I’d like to call him a kindred spirit in some ways, but I am surely not at his level as yet. Melbourne Writers Festival: A general sense of appreciation for an event that recognises writers and their talent as an art. Tamika Charles & Deejay L’Oqenz: My introduction to their music which was a 60’s style Jazz video that blew me away. Finish the following sentences: My first introduction to the art world… was age 3/4 at pre-school, I drew the most hideous picture of a boy and a girl under a tree you’ll ever see. My teachers thought it was amazing (for a 3 yr old I suppose). There was a sense of accomplishment that came with my teachers’ acknowledgment, making it seem I was so much greater than everyone else didn’t hurt either, my first ego stroke I guess. I’ve had a strange love/hate relationship with art ever since. I really enjoy… peaceful, quiet days in the country by the coast....emphasis on QUIET ! When I wake up in the morning I… Roll around 6 or 7 times, hit snooze 5 times, then grab my Blackberry and go through all my work emails. It’s Friday night, I’m most likely to… be working to be truthful. If not, just out having a couple drinks or meal with a few friends. If my office was burning I would take… THE BACON!... Naw, I’m joking, the bacon is never kept in the office, just in case it happens to burn down. I’d take my laptop and phone – essential tools. My most recent bout of inspiration came… 15 minutes ago listening to one of my editors interview Boona Mohammad. My colleagues would describe me as… Depends on which colleague. Some would compare me to grumpy old Eustace from Courage the Cowardly Dog. In truth though, I’m more Snoopy than anything else – quiet, and patiently driven and at times can be found on my roof pretending to be a WWII pilot If I could stand on stage in front of an audience of young artists and share some words of encouragement I would say… Stay true to you, always stay true to you. Circumstances will always present themselves where you will have doubters, but as long as you stay focused on where you feel you need to be, you will be victorious. Ralph Emerson said “Sow a thought and you reap an action; sow an act and you reap a habit; sow a habit and you reap a character; sow a character and you reap a destiny.” Sow your thoughts, your concepts, your ideas, and follow through with them as long as you still believe in them. You must keep in mind nothing happens before the time is right, it takes patience, persistence and drive. Be consistent in your work and material, no matter the situation or trials that are present, you should never be afraid to fail, nor deterred by past failures. Lastly, and maybe most importantly, stay positive. A consistent positive outlook will reap positive rewards. The brain works in interesting ways, and does not discriminate on how it treats each idea. Negative thoughts have a tendency to evoke negative actions. So i guess to summarise, I’d say stay true, stay patient, stay consistent and stay positive.
1 FINGER PAINTING ON THE IPAD
We swear by him being able to market a product better than the creators themselves. Apple needs to put David Kassan as the face for their iPad as he literally has the ability to inspire anybody to purchase this piece of technology
2 FAVELA PAINTING
Rio de Janeiro has been transformed into an artistic playground. How beautiful it is so see art thrown into the mix of an already culturally oozing capital. Thank you to the brilliant minds who continue to create unity through the arts!
NO MORE BANKSY IN MELBOURNE To the group of council people who decided they would paint over the famous Banksy stencil whilst cleaning graffiti of the streets of Melbourne Australia, we suggest you go back to cleaning the streets and stop destroying art! LOVE PARADE TURNS DISMAL Thanks 20 years without any major injuries yet this year something went terribly wrong. The Love Parade, held in Duisburg has always been a celebration of music except this year the festival has a death count of 19 people, urging heads of this event to cancel the yearly festival forever.
Ann Newmarch Cultural pattern & human fragility (Pandora’s Box)
Pamela Kouwenhoven & Margaret Worth Drop the Dust
3 July - 29 August 2010 Two exhibitions of recent work presented for SALA 2010
Flinders University City Gallery State Library of South Australia, North Terrace, Adelaide Tue-Fri 11-4, Sat-Sun 12-4 www.flinders.edu.au/artmuseum
Ann Newmarch, Oh Dear, 2009, digital print and mixed media on canvas, 146 x 100 cm, photograph: the artist Margaret Worth, Bottle Bush, 2010, mixed media, 155 x 80 x 60 cm, photograph: Grant Hancock
words by Allison Charmaine
I FEEL QUITE EXPOSED BY THE EXPERIENCE, I NEVER IMAGINED MY WORK IN A MUSEUM
f the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) were a baby, its first words would have been “moving image”, its third and fourth words would have been “Tim Burton”. Opened in 2002, the ACMI has established a reputation as one of the world’s leading moving image centres and has set world records for attendance of past exhibitions, which have included: Stanley Kubrick: Inside the mind of a visionary filmmaker, Pixar: 20 years of Animation, Replay Christian Marclay, and Dennis Hopper and the New Hollywood. World class, cutting-edge, innovative, a home for creativity…it doesn’t matter how you choose to describe the ACMI; the consensus is that this internationally recognized institution is committed to delivering quality moving images in all forms, to Australia. The moving image is a medium often used, but hardly celebrated worldwide. I do not mean pretentious award shows where industry insiders slap each other on the back while smoking cigars that cost more than your monthly student loan payment; the ACMI is all about celebration and exposure of the moving image – in film, television and digital culture. There will be no cheesy reality shows or singing competitions here, no, this is Tim Burton as you have never seen him. The event, officially titled The Melbourne Winter Masterpieces 2010, was graced on June 23 by Tim Burton who opened the appropriately titled “Tim Burton: The Exhibition” which will be on display until October 10th, 2010. A simple title for a not-sosimple event, after almost a year of coordinating, this major exhibition gives insight into Burton the artist: director, photographer, and concept artist illustrator. Best known as the Oscar nominated director of films such as Beetlejuice, Batman, Edward Scissorhands, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and Alice in Wonderland, Tim Burton’s artistic talent transcends the medium of film. At the exhibition launch, a typically humble Mr. Burton said: “It is wonderful to have my works exhibited in this way. I feel quite exposed by the experience, I never imagined my work in a museum, but I am also excited to be able to share them with Melbourne, especially in such a unique way in ACMI's dark and very theatrical gallery. I hope the exhibition’s local visitors and those who travel across Australia to see it have an enjoyable experience." The exhibition which was previously on display at The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, is anticipated to be popular in its second home because of the wide range of objects on display and family-friendly content.
Shock
T
im Burton: The Exhibition is the largest temporary exhibition ever to be staged at ACMI, with more than 700 objects, and will be bigger than the original installation staged by MoMA. In addition to an extensive film series spanning his 28-year career, the exhibition creates a timeline of Burton’s creativity from childhood drawings to well-known work in film – the installation will feature rarely and never publicly seen paintings, drawings, photographs, moving image works, puppets, maquettes (small 3D models), storyboards, cinematic ephemera (posters, notices, tickets, etc.) and costumes. Mr. Burton worked alongside the dedicated team at the ACMI to bring new elements to the exhibition, including designing decorations for both the interior and exterior of the building and creating the centerpiece of the show the “Burtonarium” which is a carnival tent within a forest. Also in the Wonderland exhibit, Warner Bros. Movie World provided additional help by acquiring the Batmobile, yes, I said the Batmobile. Sadly, ACMI is sorry to disappoint fans with the obvious disclaimer that there will be no Batman et al. to provide a live show of the features of the Batmobile. Also, Aesthestics Now would like to remind you to not attempt to touch the Batmobile, no matter how shiny it looks.
Trick orTreat Collage
The exhibition follows the course of Burton’s career, with childhood ephemera, juvenilia, and amateur short films from his youth in Burbank, California; cartoons and drawings from his time at California Institute of the Arts; and examples of his first professional work at The Walt Disney Studios and an exhibit of his Polaroid work. Burton’s artistic output includes shorts Vincent (1982) and Frankenweenie (1984); and 15 feature films including Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure (1985), Mars Attacks! (1996), Sleepy Hollow (1999), Planet of the Apes (2001), Big Fish (2003), Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride (2005), and Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet (2007); as well as writing and web projects such as Stainboy (2000). Here is an amusing tidbit before you start planning your trip to the ACMI; the name of the Director of ACMI is Tony Sweeney – if it isn’t a sign that artist that brought Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street to the movie screen should be featured so prominently at the ACMI, I don’t know what is. Tim Burton: The Exhibition is open at ACMI until October 10, 2010, and will include an on-going calendar of screening, live events, workshops, tours, lectures and competitions. This is a list of events recommended by Aesthethics Now – you may visit www.acmi.net.au for a full list of events.
If you attend the exhibition, please send us a photo with your date of attendance and information and we will publish it.
Edward Scissorhands Sketch
Romeo Juliet Pen and Ink
Online Gallery
In a Burton Wonderland Art competition and online gallery - To celebrate Tim Burton’s visit to the Australian Centre for the Moving Image for the opening of Tim Burton: The Exhibition, ACMI is holding an online exhibition for local artistic talent, the best works of which will be selected by Tim Burton. The exhibition called “In a Burton Wonderland invites budding artists to submit original art and photography inspired by Tim Burton and his extensive creative output. Tim Burton: The Exhibition - iPod tour Available via the ACMI website or from iTunes from Wed 23 June - www.acmi.net.au
Talks: Free Sunday Talks
A Gloomy Heart – the animation of Isabel Peppard (Unclassified 15+) Sun 8 Aug, 2pm Studio 1, ACMI FREE! Tickets available on the day from the Tickets & Information Desk In exploring the gothic sensibility that is so potent in Tim Burton’s work we look to other artists closer to home who, similarly explore the dark emotive world of the doomed. Isabel Peppard describes her work as ‘stop motion animation with a horror aesthetic’. Isabel and other members of her creative team will identify the characters landscapes and stories that inhabit these stop motion animation worlds such as the fatal love odyssey Gloomy Valentine as well as offering us a sneak peek into her next gothic-styled animated film. Hosted by writer and broadcaster Richard Watts
Tactile City: The State of Animation in Melbourne (Unclassified 15+) Sun 15 Aug, 2pm Studio 1, ACMI FREE! Tickets available on the day from the Tickets & Information Desk Melbourne is home to a thriving animation community who draw on their city’s suburbs, laneways, culture and people to create rich and imagined worlds. Meet local animators, Van Sowerine, Isobel Knowles and Heng Shen Yeap who are all at the forefront of animation and have worked on a wide variety of film, TV, installation and new media projects. Find out what their favourite part of the Tim Burton exhibition is, and get a firsthand insight into the inspiration and creative process behind their own work. Hosted by writer and broadcaster Richard Watts Scoring a Story (Unclassified 15+) Sun 22 Aug, 2pm Studio 1, ACMI FREE! Tickets available on the day from the Tickets & Information Desk In film, music often speaks in ways which its characters cannot. The composer’s role is to really ‘score’ the emotions of a story by creating the sounds and tone of a world. For many directors, like Tim Burton, this creative collaboration with a composer is crucial. Dale Cornelius has been writing music for Film and Television for the last 17 years to much acclaim. From Mary and Max to Till Human Voices Wake Us, Dale’s diverse and accomplished soundscapes have been described as ‘stunning’ and ‘hauntingly beautiful’. This talk provides a rare opportunity to hear about how sounds and music are created and produced to tell a story, to evoke a feeling, and to show us the presence or absence of beauty. Hosted by writer and broadcaster Richard Watts
Talks: Lecture Series
Analysing Burton With Gary Simmons (Unclassified 15+) Studio 1, ACMI All tickets $6 Suspend disbelief and enter the world of Tim Burton on the following dates: To coincide with the exhibition and film events, join us for a series of talks exploring the films of Tim Burton beyond the screen, hosted by Gary Simmons. This series of talks on some of Burton’s best known films utilising sequences from the films to explore Burton’s strange worlds and magical, fraught characters, as well as his distinctive visual style and playful stretching of genre to create films that feed and stir the imagination, taking the viewer into ‘the garden outside.’ Planet of the Apes + Mars Attacks Tue 10 August, 7pm Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride + Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas
Tuesday 24 August, 7pm Batman + Batman Returns Tuesday 7 September, 7pm Beetlejuice & Alice in Wonderland Tuesday 14 September, 7pm Sweeney Todd & Sleepy Hollow Tuesday 5 October, 7pm
Drop-In Workshops
Through the Looking Glass Spring School Holidays: Mon 20 Sep - Fri 24 Sep & Mon 26 Sep – Fri 1 Oct Drop in workshops between 11am and 3pm weekdays Weekend schedule: Sun 19 Sep, Sun 26 Sep Drop in workshops between 12pm and 4pm Studio 1, Australian Centre for the Moving Image FREE! To coincide with Tim Burton: The Exhibition, join us on these holidays for a rare opportunity to be part of your own adventures in Wonderland and immerse yourself in exquisite sets from the movie. Using green screen technology, our state-of-the-art studio will be transformed into Wonderland. Costumes are provided or come dressed as your favourite character to interact with other characters in the virtual world. These sessions are perfect for the whole family and are recommended for children between the ages of 5 to 12. Alice In Wonderland sets courtesy of Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment.
For Kids and Families
Tim Burton: The Exhibition Kids Exhibition Trail 24 June and 10 October, 2010 Gallery 1, Australian Centre for the Moving Image Free with entry to the exhibition For Children from 5 to 10 years The ACMI designed Kids Exhibition Trail, recommended for children aged 5 -10, provides a safe navigation path through the exhibition, bypassing works better suited to an older age group. The trail is explored by following a Burtonesque ‘monster’ character and features activities along the way to ensure kids and parents get the most from the exhibition experience. The trail weaves a pathway through the exhibition, stopping at Alice in Wonderland exhibits, cartoon sketches, images of pirates and clowns, Burton’s The World of Stain Boy animated series, Edward Scissorhands and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory exhibits, right through to the Kids’ Activity Space. Tim Burton: The Exhibition Activity Space 24 June and 10 October, 2010 Gallery 1, Australian Centre for the Moving Image Free with entry to the exhibition For Children from 5 to 10 years
Nightmare Before Christmas The Activity Space, set within Tim Burton: The Exhibition, is the ideal place for kids to express their own creative side, as ACMI staff, parents and care-givers watch on. The focus in this decorated environment is drawing and sketching and offers a place to display the children’s creations to future visitors to see.
Visit www.acmi.net.au for a full list of events.
if only they had by Neville Ewers
Archimedes Let’s discuss how I came up with the area of an arc over coffee and 6 minutes ago via web
HBogart @raycharles here’s looking at you kid :) about 8 minutes ago via TweetDeck
JimiHendrix @LennyKravitz I’m calling, I’d like my style back ... that includes the white women about 15 minutes ago via Übertwitter
JLennon stop playing with my phone @BillyMays RT@JLennon tired of your wife doing all the talking? Order Might Putty TODAY! about 20 minutes ago via web
TheRealMrMarley @JimiHendrix I say *puff puff pass* rasta, not *puff puff puff* about 23 minutes ago via web
JimiHendrix @MichelleObama Yes she did! RT: @MsMonroe @BarackObama Happy Birthday Mr President ;) about 45 minutes ago via Übertwitter
DaKing In an abmulance, mobbed after performing “All Shook Up” at Haiti Relief Concert. You’ll hear from my lawyer @wyclef about 1 hour ago via ÜberTwitter
WillShakespeare That’s the 4th play I’ve walked out of, the audacity of these people, a woman playing Juliet ? #mockery about 1 hour ago via Übertwitter
FrankySinatra #farts If I can make it here, I’ll make it anywhere about 1 hour ago via ÜberTwitter
MsMonroe @BarackObama Happy Birthday Mr President ;) about 1 hour ago via web
Submit your own “If Only” Tweets to info@aestheticsnow.com ....and don’t forget to follow us
twitter.com/aestheticsnow
“Painful as it may be, a significant emotional event can be the catalyst for choosing a direction that serves us-and those around us - more effectively. Look for the learning.� Louisa May Alcott
armusik@yahoo.com www.ericarmusik.com
“Desperation is the raw material of drastic change. Only those who can leave behind everything they have ever believed in can hope to escape.� William S. Burroughs
HOW TO SHOOT
INCENSE SMOKE
Tutorial reference by Joao Encarnacao
We all know how aesthetically pleasing smoke looks as it dances infront of our eyes, twisting and twirling as the air and a slight breeze guides it to beautiful movement. You’d be surprised to know that capturing the many shapes that smoke produces is actually quite easy to do and is also fun as smoke never takes on the same form. With the help of our creative photographer Joao and his helpful tutorial, you too can learn how to master the art of photographing smoke. He has used incense sticks as his source of smoke for this tutorial as it is the easiest form of smoke photography, giving you a classy and clean photo each almost every time.
MATERIALS So here is what you need to successfully photograph incense smoke; an incense stick, matches, a piece of black cloth that you can use as a background to capture the smoke alot easier, a remotely triggered flash (wireless or wired are optional), two CD covers and a rubber band.
SETTING UP YOUR ENVIRONMENT We will need a dark background so that the smoke is easily viewable with maximum contrast. Joao uses a black wide coat as his background ensuring that his piece of cloth that doesn’t reflect light. First, we need to control the way the flash will light up the scene. We need a narrow beam to hit the smoke, and for that we will use two improvised “barn doors”, one for each side. Joao uses some CD covers, but you can use cardboard or another opaque material. With a rubber band the CD covers are secured so that the flash light will travel in a narrow beam, lighting only the incense.
PLACING YOUR ITEMS The flash has to be perpendicular to the camera, on a 90 degree angle in order to get the result we require for an excellent shot. It should also be perpendicular to the background, and facing the incense stick.
THE PHOTO
This should be done in a semi-dark room, as we want the background to have as little light as possible. Leave a small light in the room, as to be able to see the incense stick and smoke (you’ll need it to be able to focus on the subject. If too dark, choose the incense tip as a focus point, since it will be bright red. The room should be draft free, or else the smoke will be too scattered, and keep in mind that it’s vital to air the room every 5-10 minutes, as the smoke will be confined to that space.
CAMERA SETTINGS
One important rule about camera settings and external flash is that shutter speed will control the reach of your light and aperture will control its intensity. Setting a higher or lower shutter speed will have no affect whatsoever on the brightness of your flash. So, we will use the maximum sync speed of your flash (sync speed is the maximum shutter speed achievable with a remote flash without the shutter curtains appearing in the shot), which in my case is 1/200s.
As for aperture, we will want to get all areas of the smoke in focus, so we will decrease the aperture (higher f/ value) and balance it with a stronger flash. In this shot, the aperture was set at f/14, and the flash at 1/2 power. The ISO is set to the minimum, 100. As you can see in the image, the camera and background are parallel and the flash is perpendicular. Also, you can still see the smoke when shooting. Remember that smoke is a bit erratic, so you will probably want to take a couple of shots so you can choose from them later on. Don’t be afraid to shoot wide, as we will be cropping the image later.
THE EDITING The editing process for our photos is explained for Adobe Photoshop, although you could follow similar steps with other software since most of the actions I’m performing are rather standard. First, we want the blacks to be as black as possible, and to have clarity on the shot. For this the “Blacks” slider was increased, just until the background was no longer distinguishable. Also, Joao has increased the contrast and moved the “Clarity” slider to the maximum, as to get better shape definition.
FINAL RESULT
This is the final photo, with a black background. If necessary, sharpen the photo a bit, and clean any existing noise with noise reduction software. This is the final photo, with a black backAlternatively, we can have a white background. For that, it’s as simple as going to Photoshop, and going to Edit àImage Adjustments à Invert This will create a negative image of your photo (black to white, grey smoke to brown).ground. If necessary, sharpen the photo a bit, and clean any existing noise with noise reduction software.
AND NOW FOR SOMETHING also possible to colour the smoke in different DIFFERENT It’ssections. To do this in Photoshop, click the Lasso
tool, and roughly select an area to change the colour. It’s not necessary to be very precise, since the background won’t actually reflect the colour change. After selecting, apply some feather to the selection, to make the transition smoother (Shift+F6 on Photoshop). Use a radius between 20 and 40, depending on your image size. Then click Edit - Image Adjustments - Hue/Saturation. Change the Hue and increase / decrease the saturation to your liking. There’s no right way, just different results so get creative!
HERE IS A FINISHED MULTI-COLOURED PHOTO OF THE SMOKE WITH A WHITE BACKGROUND.
HERE IS A FINISHED MULTI-COLOURED PHOTO OF THE SMOKE WITH A BLACK BACKGROUND
Myrtle Pennington Mulpila 139 x 137 cm Jap 006391
Spinifex Artists 30 July - 25 August
Tjaduwa Woods Yampie 138 x 124 cm Jap 006394
Lennard Walker Kurualla 143 x 137 cm Jap 006387
47 High Street Fremantle Western Australia 6160 Phone: (08) 9335 8265 Email: japingka@iinet.net.au www.japingka.com.au
Makinti Napanangka
$UWKXU %R\G %UHWW %DLOH\ (FKR &KDL 5H[ 'XSDLQ )X +RQJ (PLO\ .DPH .QJZDUUH\H .HLWK /DQH %DR\LQJ /L -RKQ 0DZXUQGMXO 0D[ 0LOOHU .KXH 1JX\HQ -RKQ 2OVHQ *ORULD 3HW\DUUH .DWKOHHQ 3HW\DUUH /OR\G 5HHV /DXUHQFH 7DQ 5RYHU 7KRPDV %UHWW :KLWHOH\ :LOOLDP <DQJ ;LID <DQJ DQG RWKHUV 2/' 6287+ +($' 52$' %21', -81&7,21 16: $8675$/,$ ( LQIR#DUWDWULXP FRP DX ZZZ DUWDWULXP FRP DX
WRITTEN UNITY
MELBOURNE WRITERS FESTIVAL
Now in its 25th staging, the festival flourishes in its longevity and staying power by Ryan Smith Enjoying a resurgence in popularity with the advent of the ubiquitous Amazon Kindle and Apple’s new kid on the block the iPad, literature titles are “virtually” flying off the shelves. In hopes of capitalizing on the successes of these devices and their corresponding online storefronts, aspiring literary craftsmen are seeking new avenues for honing their skills, desirous of that elusive big break into the industry. In Australia, those paths all undoubtedly lead to Federation Square and the Melbourne Writers Festival. Now in its 25th staging, the festival flourishes in its longevity and staying power, coming into its own as the perfect nesting grounds for budding practitioners of the literary arts, and an eagerly anticipated yearly sojourn for aficionados. Festival Director Steve Grimwade, confirmed the revolutionary impact of technology on writing, and sought to allay fears of literature’s demise in quipping “people thought that video would kill the radio star, but it didn't happen – new media won't kill the novel, it will just provide more people with an opportunity to read.”
New media won't kill the novel, it will just provide more people with an opportunity to read. Steve Grimwade
With the country’s libraries already boasting an impressive membership – fifty percent of Australians tote the cards of their local branch – Melbourne presents itself as the ideal location for showcasing the works of both local and international talent. “From its beginnings in the Melbourne Athenaeum, the festival has grown from having two international guests to four hundred in 2010,” remarked the Director. “Moving the festival in 2008 to Federation Square presented the opportunity to place ourselves in the heart of the city and connect with a much wider audience.” Taking place from August 27 through September 5, visitors will be treated to a myriad of literary offerings, ranging from workshops and symposiums on what makes crime such a compelling read, to simulcast presentations featuring the likes of Neil Gaiman and Shaun Tan speaking on graphic novels.The evergrowing complexity of the literary arts and recognition of its various forms is perhaps the
primary concern amongst insiders, commented Grimwade. “Whether it be comic books, screenwriting for television or plays, the story is what is preeminent,” he continued, connecting the dots on the perceived puzzle that is writing as an art form. As the stories are woven into the tales that excite, intrigue and inform, so is the intricate labyrinth of genres and themes formed, making it inherently difficult to pick just one such theme for an event of this nature. “The themes invariably come up after,” said Grimwade, “one can expect activities and discussions on anything from food to the Millennium Development Goals.” Singling out text as a “fundamental art form”, the Festival Director highlighted efforts to present it in all its glory with the installation of a large hoist in the Square, complete with sheets of artwork quilted with stories of the suburbs from a host of contributors.
The Festival has also found ways to give back to the community, through the execution of its hugely successful schools programmes. With over 48,000 participants comprising of students and teachers, the programmes avoid a dogmatic approach, and are geared at re-instilling a sense of passion and excitement in reading and writing by talking about the ideas behind them, and stimulating the imagination with a wide array of topics and material in an engaging fashion. Plans for expansion are simple – getting the word out there. “Every second person on public transport has a book in their hands, so we’re hoping to engage more people in the city, by branding and commissioning artwork.” Getting involved in the Melbourne Writers Festival is only a few clicks away on their website, www.mwf.com.au. As a writer, Grimwade advised those interested in being showcased to have their publishers pitch to the organizers, or alternatively to take part in any of the many workshops on offer. In parting, the
Festival Director has some more words of advice and inspiration for fledgling writers.
“Accepting and forgetting rejection, and moving on is one of the most important things as a writer. Unfortunately every writer sends their work out and gets rejected at some point in time, you can't be disheartened by that. You have to believe. Also, reading the greats is essential, no writer exists in a vacuum.”
Also, reading the greats is essential, no writer exists in a vacuum.
Miss Seetoh in the World Catherine Lim Miss Maria Seetoh, a teacher of English and Literature in St Peter’s Secondary School in Singapore, sees herself as a ‘simple soul who only wants to be a good and happy person,’ and has a dream to write stories about ‘simple, ordinary people going about their daily lives’. However, God/Providence/Fate/Chance, etc. deems otherwise. She is thrown into the tumult of a disastrous marriage that begins as strangely as it ends, a failed love affair that ‘hollows her out’, and a controversial teaching career that ends with her abrupt resignation. Most of all, she is caught in a political event as shocking in its causes as in its consequences.
generous promise, ‘That’s all I can afford for the present; for our second honeymoon, I’ll take you to Europe’), they came upon a scene of distress. A little boy of about four was sitting on the ground with a bad cut on his forehead, and his mother who looked very young was wringing her hands and making small sounds of panic as she looked around for help. It was a simple matter for her and Bernard to effect a full rescue, which they did promptly.
most inspiriting.
who took the risk, albeit circuitously, after hearing about the poor man’s financial misfortunes; their strategy was to send someone, a child or a maid, to go up and casually drop an innocuous-looking envelop containing the donation money beside his pile of pamphlets.
She is thrown into the Chapter 23 tumult of a disastrous 3 marriage that begins as Extract V.K. Pandy was not at his strangely as it ends, a post, but the space his presence carved out in the Set gainst the backdrop of failed love affair that bustling square remained modern-day Singapore, a hugely empty, being avoided, successful city-state grappling with changes and challenges ‘hollows her out’, and a by habit, by the crowds hurrying by. It was as if an that could corrode the very soul, the controversial teaching invisible V.K. Pandy was novel ultimately examines, with wit, there, still captured on wry irony and warm understanding, career that ends the secret relentless the unchanging quandaries of the human surveillance cameras, and condition, when love and sex, religion and with her abrupt nobody wanted to take politics, tradition and modernity, can all any risk of being seen with come together in an unruly mix, to show resignation. him. There were a few human nature at its most depressing and its Chapter 1 – Extract 1
The principal of St Peter’s Secondary School liked to speak of its portals of learning and tolerated their occasional battering by the seismic eruptions from Class 4 C on the third floor. The effect on school morale, though, had to be carefully monitored and assessed, for the walls separating the classrooms were thin, and already some students were asking their teachers why only Miss Seetoh’s students were having all the fun.
Chapter 11 – Extract 2
Taking a walk along one of the peaceful country roads of the lovely Cameron Highlands in Malaysia ( Bernard had said in a flush of
Chapter 39 – Extract 4
Shortly after, Anna Seetoh paid a visit to her daughter. ‘If it makes you happy,’ she said, ‘I will visit Por Por’s niche in the columbarium with you, and say my own prayers for her.’ Maria said, ‘Mother, let’s sit down. There’s something we have to talk about seriously, if we don’t want to end up not talking to each other at all.’
Music: I-LXXIV from Pressed Wafer Press in Boston published in August, 2009 by August Kleinzahler Music I
Then there was the time I sold all my CDs. Well, not all of them. I kept 75. I had 2500 CDs spread out over ten big shelves, and not one of them did I wish to part with. Which may sound extreme, but bear in mind that those ten shelves represented several years of exhaustive sifting and winnowing through thousands of other CDs, less critical to my listening pleasure and notions of the indispensable. So when I picked out my 10 or 15 CDs a day to take down to Recycled Records on Haight Street for 4 or 5 bucks apiece, I was separating myself, more painfully by the day, first from my darlings, then my darlingist of darlings. At the end of this self-inflicted ordeal, I came to know most vividly what music I cared most to have on hand. You see, I was broke. My lifestylesoftherichand famous routine had deteriorated to oh, dearie me, how am I going to pay rent and that Pacific Gas & Electric bill. I had no one to blame but myself. I had forgotten to find a job, having instead been listening to music and making tapes for years. I’d won a grant, a fellowship, a very generous one, perhaps deserved, perhaps not, what’s the bother? Regardless, I spent all my money on CDs, and all my time listening to them. I am a feckless fellow. Go ahead, say it. I shan’t argue. “Never argue with a liar or a fool,” my grandfather used to say. Am I calling you a liar or a fool? Your spouse might. Your adversary might. Not I. Simply, I shall not defend my lifestyle from you or anyone else.
At theend of this self-inflicted Music LIV ordeal, I came In the mid-1950s, a high school kid from El Cajon to know most named Frank Zappa read in article in Look vividly what music magazine that said Goody was so I cared most to Sam adept at selling records; he have on hand. could unload
a copy of Edgar Varese’s Ionisation. This piqued the curiosity of the restless, inventive, and embryonic rocker, so he set about trying to find a copy of this, what he imagined to be, extreme and unpalatable piece of music. It took him a year. Apparently, there wasn’t a big call for Edgar Varese records in San Diego in the 1950s. When young Zappa did find a copy, he was informed that the record cost $5.98. Frank offered the store clerk $2 for the record, which seems to have satisfied the clerk, who was doubtless glad to have it off the shelf where it had sat for years.
The year Varese died, 1965, Frank Zappa joined a local Varese is held in rhythm-and-blues many quarters to be band called the the most important American composer of Soul Giants, and the 20th century. It is a Zappa-esque circumstance appended to it that the composer of some of our most innovative the logo “The and influential orchestral music is a Frenchman, though Mothers of Varese, born in Paris in 1883, emigrated to the U.S. in 1915 Invention.” and became a naturalized United States citizen in 1926. The year Varese died, 1965, Frank Zappa joined a local rhythmand-blues band called the Soul Giants, and appended to it the logo “The Mothers of Invention.” Fifteen years later, having previously declared in an interview that classical music was “for old ladies and faggots,” Zappa delivered a worshipful lecture on Varese’s music in New York and staged, at his own expense, programs of Varese’s music both in New York and San Francisco.
The Voice of a Generation Boona Mohammed By Neville Ewers
The
days of Marcus Garvey and Malcolm X are long gone, our Jose Martis are now Ricky Martins. Revolutionaries have become a thing of the past only found on museum walls or in Cuba (for the moment). We live in a system where instead of being kept silent, we are handed the bare minimum to feel we are better off not complaining. Inserting Boonaa Mohammed into this equation surely alters the thought process, if not the outcome itself. The first generation Canadian poet, writer and performer who grew up in a Muslim family is now world renowned for his accounts on social injustice, religion and youth upliftment. During the late 80â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and early 90â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, the hip hop culture exploded from the streets of New York into middle class homes across
Photos by Mohammed Langston www.seekingnearness.com
the globe. The widespread phenomenon grew at such a rapid pace, you’d think hip hop was being dumped into our dams and tainting our water supplies. Like many who grew up during that period, Boonaa fell in love with the culture. Unlike many, Boonaa has since denounced and distanced himself from everything it represents. “I slowly became disengaged from that life” he told us. “It’s just my opinion, which is biased, but a lot of it is completely phony. This is a culture based on ‘I am better than you,’ ‘I am cooler than you’.” Boonaa saw a culture that was forcing, and rewarding artists for turning their backs on the social issues they believed in. He expressed to us how “even the most conscious politically motivated rapper has a silly song, a club song, but you need those, that’s the reality of it”. His own belief in what his idols stood for was in question, and reached a stage where he decided his work would “not be about part time, that’s (hip hop social commentary) part time working. We have to embody what we say, if you are not 100 percent real to what you speak about then you might as well not say it.” As a Muslim, Boonaa Mohammed decided
his talents were better suited to fighting for a nation that was severely stereotyped worldwide and has since been under attack, mostly by the main stream media – Islam. “Aside from on America’s Most Wanted, we are not wanted here. ‘Cause my color and last name still sparks fear “– Green Card. The transition was evident while watching a compilation of Boonaa’s past and present performances. The ”genius in baggy jeans” was now the “slave to Allah”. Boonaa related “Where in the early years it was clear he was trying to speak to me, it moved to where he
“
This is a culture based on ‘I am better than you,’ ‘I am cooler than you’.
“
had a message to preach to me”. For someone that had started to gain the mass following he had in his previous days, a reaction among peers and fans was expected. “The moment you begin to get into religion or talk about organised belief, it becomes ...I thought you were smarter than that, you’re an artist, you’re supposed to be free from that... I ask...Why?”, he explained to us. The awards and accolades seem to have made no impact on distracting Boonaa from focusing on his mission, but they have helped to build his progression as a writer and performer. With a published story in a Penguin Canada anthology and his current work as a playwright, Boonaa continues to establish the fact
he’s a writer first, not just a poet. “Poetry is just another stylistic form, it gives me a lot of freedom (compared to other writing forms), and it has almost spoiled me”, he told us. “In poetry you can be random; you can just break out into song, then go quiet, then be psychotic halfway through.” This ability to find different ways to express himself on stage is a significant part of why he has been dubbed the “voice of a generation”. “It’s a lot of pressure,” he chuckled, “but being the voice of a generation means I’m trying to give more voices as well. Sometimes we speak because others don’t have the voice to do it. I’d rather not be the voice of a generation, but I do it because there are so few capable of doing it; my goal is to train others to be able to use their voices. “ With his witty phrases, comedic sense and overall charismatic presence, Boonaa has an ability to share his views with written words in a way that allows almost everyone to be open to his opinions and advice. His online videos are bombarded with words of hope and praise from people of every walk of life, religion and race. The performances themselves are some of the most inspiring poetry-related pieces you will ever encounter; the words are not heard, they are felt.
“
I swear to God,
God, because I
Nowhere is this more evident than between the lines of his poem Priorities. “I swear to God, I do not feel comfortable swearing to God, because I am not sure my faulty words will do him justice”. Upon completing this sentence while performing the poem in one of his videos, Boonaa Mohammed broke down into tears. His passion is testament to his pure, untainted belief in what he speaks. In a time where talent is used and abused simply as a bridge towards wealth and fame, it’s uplifting to see talent being nurtured and shared behind a pure motive. The question we should ask ourselves is if the man labelled the voice of a generation finds his voice to be insufficient a medium to share with the powers that be, where exactly does that leave the rest of us?
faulty words will
Aesthetics Now sought the advice of Boonaa for our readers, like-minded in wanting to make a greater change in society through the influences of art, in sharing a few words of encouragement to aid in fuelling that passion.
I do not feel
comfortable swearing to
am not sure my do him justice
“
“Whatever you do, just be true to your own message and purpose. Every company or organization when starting out writes a mission statement, what will be your own? As long as you are able to stick to your principals and morals, you will find yourself doing what you love no matter the costs.”
BOOKMAN REVIEW
Malidoma Patrice Some
by Dutty Bookman Inadequate exposure to books written by African authors is a little shameful, especially if the so-called lover of literature has African ancestry. In all fairness, Caribbean societies do not exactly observe a wealth of mainstream exposure to Africa and its derivatives. Shakespeare and others Western are more inclined to make the high school book list than a West African. The mere absurdity is motivation enough to seek literary stimulation from the continent. Malidoma Patrice Somé’s Of Water and the Spirit: Ritual, Magic, and Initiation in the Life of an African Shaman might be the perfect dose required to remedy such Afro-deficiency. One intriguing characteristic that many non-Western cultures seem to have in common is the way offspring are bestowed with their names. The author’s first name, Malidoma, translates to “be friends with the stranger/enemy.” By the time he was born it was already determined that he would travel to the West to help bridge the cross-cultural gap between colonizer and colonized; in his tribe – the Dagara – “stranger” and “enemy” are not differentiated in thought and they therefore share the same word in tribal language. Certainly, the life experiences relayed in his book were adequate preparation for Malidoma’s mission. Of Water and the Spirit must be read and appreciated in the context of these experiences. Dagara Country, as indicated on the map preceding the title page, is currently situated between three modern day African nations.
One is Ghana and another is Ivory Coast. Somé geographically hails from the third, which is Burkina Faso. The Dagara is one example of the many African cultural groups divided along boundaries imagined and decided on by European invaders. The collective stranger/enemy, with its own tribal differences, ventured to the continent and, in the process, disturbed the organic human growth there. Somé relates the experience of being kidnapped at only four years old and being subsequently enrolled in a Jesuit missionary school. For fifteen years he was taught and conditioned in an environment generated by customs and religious beliefs contrary to the traditions of his people. With a few childhood memories close to his heart, Malidoma was the least bit interested in befriending any new strangers. He yearned to return home and successfully plotted his escape. Reacquainting himself with village life, he soon plunged into his unintentionally postponed initiation into true manhood – a month-long expedition involving magical procedures. His elders warned that he was too long removed from tribal life, too entrenched in the ways of the West to ignore the risk of death in the initiation process. The young man nevertheless went through with it and re-emerged with greater comprehension and connection to his ancestral roots. No doubt relieved, the elders approached a 22-year-old Malidoma with a special request: return to the whites and share his newfound knowledge. English-speaking Dagara tribesman, Malidoma Patrice Somé ventured to the United States of America as “a man of two worlds” aiming to reconcile them both. Three master’s degrees and two doctorates later, he now fulfils his destiny living in California. The truths contained in Of Water and the Spirit are mystical revelations that are bound to seem fictitious in the mind of the average reader. Yet, there is a frankness and consistency in his tale that appeals to the common sense that is embedded in the faculty of imagination. One might eventually wonder which of the supernatural fantasies portrayed in Hollywood could simply be naturally occurring realities in cultures like the Dagara. From a reader’s perspective, Of Water and the Spirit is a most exhilarating introduction to an extraordinary life; for the author it ought to be a justification of his name and, further, a symbol of victory for his ancestors.
JACK BEATS Parklife, the ultimate festival of all music festivals is hitting Australia with an unimaginable force once again! From Saturday September 25 until Monday October 4, where ever that it is you may be situated upon these shores let yourself dive into sensory overload as the electronic/indie beats pound through your core. In the lead-up to Parklife 2010, Aesthetics Now will be bringing you exclusive interviews with some of the amazing artists currently located around the globe soon to be trekking to the Land of Oz. This month hear what Beni from Jack Beats has to say about the creative duo and the upcoming explosion of musical bliss. Jack Beats is part of the 2010, 10th Anniversary Parklife line-up also featuring Missing Elliot, Groove Armada, The Dandy Warhols, Soulwax and more, by Fuzzy Events. Tickets and more information available at www.parklife.com.au We spoke to Beni from the famous duo and got a glimpse of all things music and of their upcoming trip to Australia.
AN: How did the formation of Jack Beats come about and where did the name come from? Beni: Well basically we had been friends for 12 years and met in London through the DJ battle scene really, we were both heavily involved in that and in the turn table scene for many years. That was kind of where we met and then when it was over we both moved on with our careers and remained friends for many years. We both produced music separately, myself with Mixologists and Niall with Scratch Perverts, and then one day decided to produce a track together and it went from there; that was about 5 years ago. As for the name it’s kind of from old Hip-Hop terminology really. Jack of the Beats was an Ice Cube track which is part of where we took it from and we shortened the name to be singular. It was an undercover project to start with and we didn’t want people to know it was the two of us behind it so we thought the name Jack Beats assumes its one person. It did what we wanted it to do at the start really and let people know it wasn’t us behind the music. AN: If you could describe Jack Beats in 3 words what would they be? Beni: Hybrid futuristic music AN: you’re travelling around Australia later in the year for Parklife. Tell me a little about what you know of the event and how you feel about travelling to Australia to celebrate their culture of music. Beni: Well we both love it. We’ve done one tour together there and I’ve done an individual Jack Beats tour and 4 other tours. Niall has been out there just as many times. We love it out there because there is such a strong music scene. Niall has actually done Parklife out there with Scratch Perverts so he knows about Parklife, and it’s an amazing tour to be part of so we are really pleased to be on board this year. We’re really looking forward to it and there’s such a great line up and a lot of friends on board so it’s just going to be a lot of fun. AN: When I say Parklife what is the first thing that pops into your head? Beni: Probably like the kind of crowds that I’ve heard a lot about. I’ve heard the Parklife crowd is really strong, up for it and knowledgeable with music so I guess it’s sort of exciting really. AN: Any words of inspiration for our readers to encourage them to continue striving to pursue their creative goals? Beni: We have a strong work ethic so work hard and really enjoy it. Don’t cut corners and always have fun while being serious about it. Maintain a strong work ethic and continue sending your work to people. Keep original and don’t do anything that’s been done before, get your own take on what’s going on and put your stamp on it really. If you like something that’s been done before; make it into your own interpretation without copying it. Music is about expression and having fun so do that.
FREDERIC BEVILACQUA RUTH GIBSON CHRISTIAN ZIEGLER TODOR TODOROFF STELARC CHUNKY MOVE INTERACTIVE INSTALLATIONS SOUND AND GESTURE RECOGNITION MOTION CAPTURE MOTION TRACKING FOCUS ON INTERACTIVE PERFORMANCE
SYMPOSIUM_WORKSHOPS_PUBLICTALKS_PERFORMANCES_INSTALLATIONS_SCREENINGS AT SEYMOUR CENTRE, CORNER OF CITY ROAD AND CLEVELAND STREET CHIPPENDALE NSW 2006 Critical Path and the University of Western Sydney present a program of keynotes, presentations, panel discussions, installations and performances. Open to general public with a day ticket including entry to Chunky Move’s GLOW. Concession rates are available. This symposium is part of a larger research project. Please see the Critical Path website for information on a series of workshops on interactive systems and motion capture through September and October. Email seam2010@criticalpath.org.au or visit http://www.criticalpath.org.au. Screenshot of Summerbranch virtual environment. Image courtesy of Igloo
t all started with a nickname that reflected his ‘Shaggy’ hair, and yet somehow over a period of time the passion and dedication of the persona working behind the name transformed into an empire that is now recognised on globally. He is an artiste – a successful one at that, and wherever his music takes him, his craft inspires others to continue to develop a love for not only the lyrics he sings but also Reggae and Dancehall as an art form on a whole. While we all know him as van artist that has set the benchmark that many aspire to, there is a depth behind Shaggy that not many are aware of. Behind the chart topping tracks and crowds of screaming fans is a man with an urgency to spark change through his heart of gold. With a love of music from his earliest memories, Shaggy developed a strong appreciation of the Dancehall scene in Jamaica. As a young deejay he was encouraged to release his own record which allowed him his break into the music scene with tremendous force. In the midst of his career, however, he put full time music in Kingston aside in support of a different effort for change, and entered the U.S Marines to fend in the Gulf War. While away he developed the strength and courage that would guide him home, with a level of determination that could lead
only him in the direction of success. It was only fitting that upon his return from his duties in the desert, he would take the music industry by storm! In Jamaican culture music is everything, and life in Jamaica for Shaggy would be a lonely place if the streets weren’t blooming with song and dance. Kingston, for Shaggy, is where his heart belongs, he tells us. “It is my home, my life, the place I was born and love”. When he travels throughout the parishes of Jamaica he longs to go home to embrace the musical channels of “Passa Passa, Weddi Weddi Wednesday and Bembe”, all popular street-side parties in the city. But outside of his own music, lies his admiration for the younger generation that finds inspiration in his words, and strives to reach their own artistic goals. Acknowledging that young Jamaicans are hitting the industry in a very strong way, Shaggy tells us that he “is not your typical Dancehall guy” and the reason why he pursued Dancehall in the form that he has is to break its well-cemented stereotypes and expectations of Jamaican culture. He creates because he wakes up each morning with renewed passion, and he urges the youth to carry that same desire to reach a point with their art t h a t satisfies their own expectations. What we love about Shaggy is that he isn’t the egotistic artiste so wrapped up in his own successes that he forgets everybody else. Don’t get me wrong
– Shaggy knows he is good, but he also knows how important it is for others to reach and exceed his level of success as he casually mentions that “if somebody doesn’t strive break or exceed then there definitely is a problem”. He has worked hard, and has reaped every reward that an artiste of his calibre aims for, yet he encourages the ever rising youth to aim for the levels he did and grow as an artist in every way that they can. Should the previously mentioned reasons not suffice, further grounds may be found in this two time multiplatinum album award-winning artiste’s unwavering love for his people. Using his achievements for philanthropic purposes, Shaggy has invested loads of time, money and most importantly love in a way that has definitely shown the dedication and admiration he has for his people. With the Shaggy makes a D i ff e r e n c e Foundation and his S h a g g y a n d Friends event he ha s constantly supported hospitals and those less fortunate than himself. Holding these altruistic pursuits dearly, Shaggy tells us “the first time I went to the hospital I spoke with the kids and I realised there are so many people in Jamaica that aren’t met with the resources that they physically need”. F r o m t h a t m oment on he made a p r o m i s e t o h imself that if he ever had the opportunity to help in any way possible he would. Through developing
a relationship with the hospital he commissioned extra machinery to assist with the lack of available medical resources. And it has definitely been a gift that Shaggy has taken to his core, telling us insipiringly that “one day a father tapped me on the shoulder and asked me to come and meet his 8 year old daughter; I walked into the room and she was hooked up to one of the machines that we had brought i n . I t t o u c h e d m e so much that I continued to develop to build in this way”. His foundation, now two and a half years strong, finds its wheels turning at an increasingly fast pace.
IF YOU LOSE PASSION THEN YOU WILL LOSE FOCUS
AND WHEN YOU LOSE FOCUS THE LOVE IS COMPLETELY GONE
Shaggy is really coming into form as a source o f i n s p i r a t i o n o n not only a musical level, but as a humanitarian. While on the topic of inspiration, we asked Shaggy to leave us with some words that we can share with other artists and those that are touched by what lays before us each and every day; words to give you that extra surge of inspiration to keep your very own cogs turning with plans of developing in your own personal way. “If you have passion then go ahead and fulfil it. In most cases you either have it or you don’t and if you don’t then there is no point trying to build on what is not there. You need to be driven and want it really bad. I get up and I do what I gotta do and I’m passionate about doing it. I don’t have to be rich or have the fame to be driven... it comes like air. Be passionate for the right reasons and take this on as a labour of love until you can see its success. If you lose passion then you will lose focus and when you lose focus the love is completely gone”.
ONE DAY A FATHER TAPPED ME ON THE SHOULDER AND ASKED ME TO COME AND MEET HIS 8 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER;
I WALKED INTO THE ROOM AND SHE WAS HOOKED UP TO ONE OF THE MACHINES THAT WE HAD BROUGHT IN . IT TOUCHED ME SO MUCH THAT I CONTINUED TO DEVELOP TO BUILD IN THIS WAY
Photo by Jerisse De Juan
Che Kothari
Desiree Butler
Deejay L’Oqenz & Tanika Charles
Alexis Finch
‘SYMBIOSIS’ Jerisse De Juan
Alexis Finch
By Ryan Smith
Groove Theory! The very first words that formed the initial thoughts on a possible spin on what appeared to be the juiciest hip hop story out of Canada since you know who. The nineties R&B project consisting of vocalist Amel Larrieux and emcee/ producer Bryce Wilson surged into prominence with their chart-topping eponymous album “Groove Theory” and hit single “Tell Me”, and seemed the perfect analogy to what the two featured artistes represented in the genre’s modern-day form. That was before the interview.
An hour later, it became delightfully evident that such analogous references would be unnecessary. Tanika, also known as Mz. Chawls, succinctly confirmed my impressions of the two – ”Not to sound egotistical, but there really isn't anybody out there that I want to be like.” Humility aside, the wealth of talent emanating from the duo of L’Oqenz (pronounced Eloquence) & Tanika Charles can afford them the giddiest of ego trips. The eclectic musical selections of El, the deejay/maestro/manager extraordinaire, and the smooth scintillating sounds of songstress Tanika, are unlike anything you have ever heard. The nostalgic doo-wop tones of Tanika’s single “Can I Be Yours”, eerily reminiscent of The Flamingos, had me sold after only a few bars. Soulful and always heartfelt, Mz. Chawls astounds with her upbeat “Silly Happy Wild”, which feasts on its heavy Motown influences evident in the production of Toronto-based Rich Kidd. It comes as no surprise that L’Oqenz and Tanika find themselves at ease working together, the former singling out Motown as notable among her earliest musical memories. “Growing up my house was filled with music; sister and mom used to listen to a lot of Motown – Al Green, Chaka Khan, Tina Turner, Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles,” recalls El. Her genre-spanning appreciation for music can also be traced back to her earlier years. “My brother listened to Rock; mom also later listened to classical music. I developed a broad respect and admiration for music at a very young age, and it’s always been a part of my life.” Photos by Alexis Finch
How the two joined forces was perhaps serendipitous; Tanika’s first standout solo performance took place at The Rivoli, singing to a packed house with Canadian starlet Zaki Ibrahim on backup vocals, roles reversed from those played in Charles’ previous experience as a backup singer for Ibrahim. Zaki would prove to be the impetus for the thrust in Tanika’s career, not only as a confidencebuilder and source of training, but by linking her with El, who she described as her rock. “She (L’Oqenz) is an important person in this city, and I’m lucky to have her in my life. We have a great deal of respect for each other.” L’Oqenz mirrors Tanika’s sentiments, adding “maintaining that level of respect is the most important thing.” Remarking on their relationship, El stressed the importance of a strong work ethic, something they both share. “I bring the support, with some organizational skills and whatever management skills I've picked up along the way, and just an ear for music, because I've been deejaying for years and I have a lot of experience with labels and what people want to hear, so we go back and forth and we bounce things off each other,” she continued, before hilariously noting “I feel like sometimes I might be the artiste whisperer!” In a business where relationships are more of the one-night-stand variety than anything else, characterized by fallouts of epic proportions and the propensity to disintegrate into nothingness at a moment’s notice, the duo reiterated the significance of their personal ties. “If it were all roses our relationship would be boring,” laughed El, before adding “we also have a lot of fun – friendship comes before the business relationship.”
I feel like sometimes I might be the artiste whisperer!
Good is always surrounding you regardless of the challenges you may face
Photos by Jerisse De Juan
Tanika’s warm, fun-loving personality, coupled with her immense talent, has won her the hearts of a strong following. El’s ability to hold an audience spell-bound – the same abilities she observed in others as a youth, inspiring her to become a deejay – creates the “perfect storm”, making the tandem an inevitability. That perfect storm can only thrive in an environment that fosters and stokes the flames of its intensity, and Toronto offers the ideal climate. With Tanika having bumped compatriot hip hop artiste Drake from the number one position on the Flow 93.5FM OTA Live Charts with “Silly Happy Wild”, each is quite capable of holding their own among a throng of emerging and established acts. Dropping names like Zaki Ibrahim, Saidah Baba Talibah, Isis and Smash Brovas, the duo commented on what it was like to be embroiled in the melting pot of talent that is Toronto’s artistic community. “I wake up every morning and count my blessings to be able to do what I love and be surrounded by so many characters and inspirational people. I never take for granted the people in my circle,” El related. “The energy in T.Dot is off the flipping charts, the whole Drake thing right now, that level of notoriety and what it does for the city, really takes it to a whole other place, in terms of people paying attention.” While gorging off the creative energy of the city, the relationship could hardly be described as parasitic. Having reaped the fruits of their labour, the duo has not forgotten to resew the seeds of prosperity and creativity within their community, having worked with such local groups as Beats 2 Da Streets, St. Albans Boys & Girls and UForChange – work they have described as “a rewarding experience.” Of equal note is their proud participation in the Manifesto Festival of Community and Culture, which they recognized as “a tool for travel (for musicians), for bringing communities together, and bridging the gap between artistes and the youth.” When prompted to offer a few gems of wisdom for young aspiring artistes, the response was refreshing. “You don't have
to be an accountant, but know how to count your money!” It is easy to forget that the industry is, after all, a business. Further words of inspiration would follow. “If you have a dream and know what you're working towards, work hard at it. When things start happening at a fast pace, recognize the goodness, and that you deserve it. Remain steadfast, there's gonna be a lot of rejection, but a lot of it is about timing and development is crucial. If you don't take the time to develop your craft you lose your gusto, your passion, and a little bit of your perspective. Good is always surrounding you regardless of the challenges you may face; challenges are a good thing, they teach you. Also, remain humble, and never let it get to your head.” L’Oqenz and Tanika Charles together epitomize symbiosis – an interdependent or mutually beneficial relationship between two persons, particularly as it extends to their immediate community. See their efforts in action at the following upcoming events:
JUL 29 L'Oqenz - backing Isis POP Montreal JUL 30 Mz. Chawls - Mel Lastman Square JUL 30 L'Oqenz - Tell It To My Heart 80's Party AUG 5 L'Oqenz - Saidah Baba Talibah Video Release Party AUG 6 Mz. Chawls - BeerFest AUG 10 Mz. Chawls - opens for Nneka
I wake up every morning and count my blessings to be able to do what I love
FILM ERRORS t happens with everything in life; we all make mistakes. But on the big screen when precision is sometimes missed then the error is laid out for the world to see. So folks we bring forth to you mistakes that have been found amongst many movie greats watched by millions the world over!
Oceans 11 So Rusty is holding a cocktail glass of shrimp, then itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a plate of shrimp, then itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a glass again. Need we say more?
Jurassic Park In the scene showing a video link that films everything happening on the docks we are in fact watching a video already pre recorded and being played on screen... oops!
Die Another Day Jinx gets slashed across her stomach in the final scene and blood is clearly drawn, yet when he and 007 are getting their sexy on in a later scene and diamonds are being poured over her body her battle wound is gone! After all, no man wants to see a scarred woman right?
Terminator 2 To the window repairs company that worked instantly to fix the huge hole in the helicopter that a T-1000 punched his body through to get in – what is your number so that I can call you for emergency glass repairs?
Terminator 3 So Terminator gets it wrong. Again. This time they have two different tail plates on an aeroplane; the number on the ground is N3035C yet when the plane is in the air it’s N3973F. Ok so we know they’re not really going to fly the same plane just for the film but c’mon guys... a little editing goes a long way!!
American Pie
I’m sure we’re not the ones drinking so why are we seeing a clear cup of beer, then in the next shot it’s a blue cup, and then in a 3rd shot it’s clear again?
GO GREEN
5 TOP ECO-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS FOR YOUR WORK ENVIRONMENT FOLDING ECO SPEAKERS What a freaking awesome product! Let’s list what is so great about these speakers; it’s made from recycled cardboard, it is its own form of origami that you can unfold and take with you on the go, and visually in itself this product is such a sexy piece of art.
GUS UPCYCLE OTTOMAN Coffee bean bags on their own are quite aesthetically pleasing. So what happens when someone takes their collection of saved coffee bean bags out of the cupboard to put to better use? You could always be like Gus and recycle them to upholster furniture and be left with an Ottoman with a whole ‘bag’ of personality.
IMPECCA BAMBOO COMPUTER PERIPHERALS Impecca, the leaders of design, developing, manufacturing and marketing of portable Audio Video Products has gone green with the introduction of their newest Bamboo keyboard, mouse and headphones. Recyclable, energy efficient, and of a quality that can reassure you of its durability, this set of three is a must have for your office space... besides, you needed a new pair of headphones to plug into you Folding Eco Speakers!
GRASSY LAWN GADGET CHARGING STATION
ECO STAPLER Here is a brilliant little idea to save some money whilst helping the environment. Say no to staples with this economically friendly stapler that secures sheets of paper together without the added metal. Speaking of which, did you know that if everyone in a UK office used one less staple a day we’d save 72 tonnes of metal a year?
Why not go green with a plant in the office? Hold on, what about a plant that acts as a charging station for all of you portable technological needs?
Eco friendly and hiding all the ugly wires associated with plug-ins this device is not only useful for charging multiple items but also looks great.
WE
RECOMMEND CHECKING OUT...
Album: How I Got Over - The Roots Many thought they’d call it quits after Rising Down, but they thankfully got over all that with the release of their much anticipated new album. ?uestlove shines on what is undoubtedly the best produced album of the year, and the single Dear God 2.0 ft Monsters of Folk will ensure the i’s are dotted and the t’s crossed on their Grammy invitations. A few awards will go a long way towards reestablishing The Roots as the quintessential hip hop band of our generation, and not just a group of guys on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon.
Literature: Between The Assassinations – Avarind Adiga Firstly – if you haven’t read White Tiger, impale yourself upon the closest lying sharp instrument, then go out and buy it, together with his latest work, Between The Assassinations. The book should be offered to Western undergrads as a primer on Indian culture, and exposes everything you’ve ever wanted to know (and stuff you probably didn’t) on politics, religion and caste from the perspective of the inhabitants of Kittur; a kaleidoscope of the entire gamut of India’s character shrink-wrapped into one tiny town. As for the assassinations – Indira Gandhi was shot 33 times in 1984, and her son Rajiv by way of suicide bomber in 1991.
Theatre: Wicked - The Broadway Musical “Long before Dorothy dropped in, two other girls met in the Land of Oz”. This musical is taking the world by storm with a storyline that literally grasps all audiences. Based on the renowned tale of impending trouble brewing in Emerald City, this ‘wicked’ interpretation of the Wizard of Oz acquaints us with the many other character perspectives that we never got to see in the classic film.
Film - A Clockwork Orange Based on the novel of the same name, A Clockwork Orange (1971) is a visually stunning and exceedingly unsettling film, set in a ragged, disgusting, futuristic British state. The film surrounds a gang of delinquents and their leader (Alex) who run around making a mockery of the word “lawful” on a nightly basis. The story takes a hold of the viewer as you observe the gleefully brutal young character pitted against a blandly callous state. At the same time the visuals, cinematic styles and unusual dialogue offer a unbelievably beautiful movie experience. It’s simply too strange to ignore it.
Artist - Javier Senosiain One of the most important exponents and explorers of organic architecture, Javier Senosiain is the Mexican architect responsible for the famous “Shark House” and “Nautilus (Snail House)”. His works are seen as both controversial and worthy of praise, but his original architectural designs and concepts are something that can never be questioned.
contact@louros.fr www.louros.fr
â&#x20AC;&#x153;
adversity is like a strong wind. it tears away from us all but the things that cannot be torn, so that we see ourselves as we really are
â&#x20AC;?
arthur golden
â&#x20AC;&#x153;
i've got a great ambition to die of exhaustion rather than boredom thomas carlyle
â&#x20AC;?
Situated in Mildura, Victoria, The Art Vault is one of Australia’s leading privately operated arts facilities. The complex consists of two galleries, a printmaking studio which includes etching and lithography facilities, ten artist studios which are rented to local artists and two apartments for visiting national and international artists in residence. Visit us and browse our extensive and diverse collection of high quality artwork for sale created by local, indigenous, national and international artists, see artists at work and participate in open days and workshops.
AUGUST AT THE ART VAULT EXHIBITIONS: To Aug 6th: 2010 La Trobe University, Mildura Campus, Edge of the Outback photography exhibition This annual program takes students on a photographic journey through outback Australia. Students develop skills in digital and analogue photography and learn about traditional Australian landscapes and culture. 11th – 30th Aug: Anne McMaster, Culture Space This work explores ideas of an Anglo Celtic culture in harmony with an Australian Indigenous Culture. Printmaking is used as the medium to merge these two cultures together.
ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE: Graeme Drendel Born in Ouyen in country Victoria, Drendel often furnishes his eclectic imagery with pointers to his upbringing. Stance, expression and body language also provide significant keys to these drama-laced works. Juan Ford Juan Ford is a foremost painter from Melbourne, Australia. His work draws from and extends upon highly realist painting, attempting to redefine it’s traditions, while pushing it’s accepted limits.
43 Deakin Avenue, Mildura VIC 3500 T: 03 5022 0013 F: 03 5022 0907 E: juliechambers@theartvault.com.au Opening Hours: Wed-Sat 10am - 5pm, Sun - Mon 10am - 2pm www.theartvault.com.au
The Hermannsburg Potters: Birds
L to R: Rahel Kngwarria Ungwanaka Pink Galah 44 cm h, Dawn Ngala Wheeler Kookaburra 24 cm h, Lindy Panangka Rontji Black Cockatoo 36 cm h
10 – 27 November 2010
143 Edgecliff Road, Woollahra NSW 2025 Hours: Wed-Sat 11.00am – 5.30pm (or by appointment) T: (02) 9369 1919 E: info@peterpinsongallery.com www.peterpinsongallery.com