C O S M I C
A u g u s t
2 0 2 0
B A N A N A
Contents 104.
ACROSS THE GR
Wicca Merlin introduces us to world of ballet in Second
32.
PLACES TO GO
78.
Featuring five amazing places to explore with your friends.
PROUST SPOTLIGHT With the talented Static Frenzy.
118.
ARTIST HIGHLIG
With the talented live sin Stephanniyah Sin
66.
THROUGH THE LENS Featuring Dutchie’s Red Brick Cafe Building
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92.
THE KITCHEN CORNER Mac Massimo chefs it up with “Orange Zest Donuts.”
126. VOICES FROM THE GR
Asked the same question, what residents have to
RID
50.
COVER STORY Cosmic Banana
COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Geena Carminucci
WRITER
162.
THE WAYFARER
o the Life.
Join the Wayfarer as he explores Little World.
GHT
182. THE WAY YOU INSPIRE
nger, natra.
Featuring Second Life resident Maia Rae.
RID
192. THE ART PERSPECTIVE
, see o say.
Featuring the Vordun Museum and Art Gallery.
Cajas Lilliehook
ECLIPSE Magazine is dedicated to not only offering an aesthetically pleasing publication, but to also be considered a platform that offers rich and relevant content. Each month, we showcase residents and groups that have taken the concept of “your world, your imagination” to such great heights that they have impacted the culture and lifestyle of the Second Life community. ECLIPSE August 2020 | Page 13
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executive team
Trouble dethly Publisher
minnie fae dethly
cajsa lilliehook
june fallon
STEF NOVA
Assistant Editor
Creative Director
Copy Editor
Content Manager
the c
writers
photographers
Cajsa Lilliehook Gidge Uriza Minnie Fae Dethly Taylor Wassep Wicca Merlin
Cassie Middles Geena Carminucci Gidge Uriza Hayden Dethly Mac Massimo Minnie Fae Dethly Taylor Wassep Wicca Merlin
stylists Cassie Middles Hayden Dethly Minnie Fae Dethly Taylor Wassep Wicca Merlin
interested in advertising with eclipse? have an idea for a great story? looking to start a new career in second life? email trouble.dethlysl@gmail.com
contributors
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While there are less than two days left in August, it still is August, and this is this month’s edition of ECLIPSE Magazine. I am putting quite a bit of consideration into going bi-monthly in 2021. We will see, or maybe I’ll bring in someone to handle the layout. I have a few months to figure things out, so I’m not rushing. I do have cover stories ready up to the end of the year, and I am eager to share their stories. For this months cover, we feature Cosmic Banana, but he goes by Max. He is the creative force behind Cosmic Dust. Incidentally, he is a fantastic DJ with incredible music tastes. I am grateful to have gotten to know him these past few months. (Shout out to Hydra!) I am happy thrilled to share his story, and I hope you enjoy reading it, as well. Last month, we introduced a new piece called “The Kitchen Corner.” It is a collaborative effort between ECLIPSE Magazine and the SL Spoon. Incidentally, my SL step-dad is the chef and food connoisseur behind the SL Spoon, and Mac does fantastic work, so be sure to follow his blog for all food related adventures. I’m hoping next month I release earlier. Mostly because I have a couple pieces that involve an upcoming event I am doing with June called “KPop United” that opens on September 10th. I already have a few blog ideas playing in my head to do with Ara and Hayden. I’ve also bumped up Hayden as a regular photographer. I haven’t told him yet, but I’m certain he’ll read this here. I have also brought on Stef Nova to help as content manager for the magazine. I feel very stressed. Some days are better than others, but I am so incredibly grateful for the people in my life. Ara for grounding me and never failing to bring a smile to my face. Hayden for just being a good and genuine person. And the rest of my friends for putting up with me. We have a total of eleven pieces this month, and I hope you enjoy them!
letter from the PUBLI
ISHER
Hello Everyone! Wow I don’t know about you but August kicked my ass physically, mentally and emotionally. Personally for me I have felt that August has been the longest month of 2020, which is really saying something for me. I’m excited for this issue cause it features one of my favorite sim’s, Little World, I believe Chickadee Tremor (also where are you?) showed me this sim a few months ago as a place to blog. I’ve featured it in several of my blog posts because as any blogger knows, sometimes setting up a whole scene will literally drain you of any creativity you have left in your bones before you even get to the picture part. If you’re not a blogger it’s still a place that is fun to go explore and maybe find some inspiration for your next big build! Now, I don’t usually get too personal on my notes here because well this magazine is not about personal issues. But with how the world is nowadays where we are all kind of on a brand new adventure together, I feel the need to share some thoughts. I have always been a strong advocate for mental health, being in my line of work and seeing the things I’ve seen in my life I know that no matter what you overcome physically it’s not worth it if you can’t overcome it mentally. This past month has been one of the harder mental battles I’ve had to overcome, I always insist that I am fine, and that I am okay until the moment I realized I was circling the drain. Which is hard to come to terms with when it randomly hits you in the face. A lot of you are probably reading this and wondering why I’m sharing this story in the first place, and it’s not for pity, it’s because I think for the person that is reading this and struggling I just want them to know they aren’t alone. You aren’t broken, you aren’t weak, it doesn’t make you less of a person to be fighting with your own demons. Don’t be afraid to ask for help either, and if the people that are around you can’t understand when you ask them to be patient with you as you struggle, then maybe those aren’t your people. That’s enough rambling from me, I hope you all enjoy this issue and we’ll see you next month.
y l h t e D e a F e Minni
letter from the edito
or
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places to go
photography by minnie dethly. written by minn
“Places to Go” is a monthly feature showcasing some of the best sims to visit for activities in Second Life®. One of the biggest complaints we hear from people on Second Life old and new, is that they don’t know what to do or where to go. The thing we think that draws most of us to Second Life is the endless possibilities it gives us from the comfort of our home. Finding cool and interesting places to go is sometimes challenging so we’ve decided to highlight a few for you to check out.
nie dethly.
Mount Campion Cav
I don’t think I will ever get tired of the National Fore Each one that I’ve visited has been over-the-top b campers to explore. Mount Campion Caves doesn’ just for a quick picn Page 34 | ECLIPSE August 2020
aves National Forest
est/camping sims that show up across Second Life. beautiful, with tons of adventures and activities for ’t disappoint! Please if you get a chance, even if it’s nic go check it out! ECLIPSE August 2020 | Page 35
Butter - You But
Welcome to Butter, one of the newest seaside ed last bit of summer adventure in, this would be th getaway, a beach, coffee shop, small restaurant an they have someth Page 36 | ECLIPSE August 2020
tter Come Back!
ditions to the grid. If you’re trying to squeeze that he place. It has everything you need for a simple nd more! If you’re looking to stay out of the sand, hing for you too! ECLIPSE August 2020 | Page 37
Templem
Want something a little more upbeat than sleepy s out. It just looks like a place that was built for a g Grab your dancing shoes and Page 38 | ECLIPSE August 2020
more Cove
seaside towns? This is the place you have to check good time: pools, bars, even stages for live music! d spend a night on the town. ECLIPSE August 2020 | Page 39
Beta Omega Iota: Natio
I am a huge nerd for aquariums even on Second L that is well made. I was pleasantly surprised whe several purposes from a hot date spot to a family aquarium, eve Page 40 | ECLIPSE August 2020
onal Aquatic Discovery
Life, the downfall of that is that it’s rare to find one en I came across this gem of a discovery. It serves outing, it has everything you are looking for in an en a gift shop! ECLIPSE August 2020 | Page 41
Florence at Low
Trouble would probably question my mental stab August. I’m beyond ready to head into my favorite of wanting to switch everything over to orange an and grab a cup of coffee and take a Page 42 | ECLIPSE August 2020
w Tide Autumn
bility if I didn’t try to sneak in a fall-themed sim in e season, and this sim has helped scratch the itch nd yellow leaves. Wrap up in your favorite sweater stroll to enjoy the view in Florence. ECLIPSE August 2020 | Page 43
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crazy beautiful seco photography by cassie middles & GEENA CARMINUCCI. writt
ond life en by cajsa lilliehook.
I’m in love, alright With my crazy, beautiful life With the parties, the disasters With my friends all pretty & plastered Kesha Aren’t we all in love with our crazy, beautiful Second Life. That’s why you’re in-world and why you are reading this magazine. You love Second Life. I love Second Life. One of the people who makes Second Life crazy and beautiful is Max Locke [Cosmic Banana], the founder of Cosmic Dust where men and women can find the plushies and popsicles that bring the crazy and the fashions that bring the beautiful. Of course, ECLIPSE has a duty to introduce our readers to the man who brings us such a crazy, beautiful life.
He was intrigued by the idea of creating though he went through a few false starts before hitting his stride with Cosmic Dust, his store for the crazy and the beautiful. His first try was a template store called Indigo. He had no knowledge of 3D software but was good at Photoshop and texturing. The store withered on Marketplace and he lost his motivation for a time.
In 2014, he tried again with Cosmic Dust. “I made my initial ad template and logo, which both had this dark blue sky aesthetic. Looking Max came to Second Life twice. First he was back, it’s kind of ugly and basic, haha BUT AT drawn in by the show Gossip Girl and had THE TIME IT WAS LITERALLY THE BEST THING a Gossipgirl avatar for about an hour. “I just EVER IN MY OPINION.” He began with texturing remember somehow ending up blue and naked, templates again, but decided to try to make getting frustrated and logging out. It was pretty mesh. He was accepted in a few events, “My funny.” He came back along with several friends first event was actually something with the title when the Vside virtual world died. It was a of Ooh La La Fashion Event and I just remember world focused on music and entertainment being so happy to be invited to SOMETHING. In and very different from SL which led to a the early months of 2015, I was invited to the 50 misunderstanding some of us may have Shades of Lust event.” gone through. “When first joining SL, I didn’t understand the concept of owning land, so in my He started in Blender though he could never noob days I would walk into empty houses and get an intuitive understanding of it despite just chill. My earliest memory is someone coming watching many video tutorials. He managed back to their house and screaming at me and to make an earning base that he still uses, then banning me for being in their house without but he needed to progress faster as he had their permission.” Ah, good times! just been invited to an event, The Xiasumi School Festival, that required original mesh. “I Max moved on to family role play, living in panicked because I didn’t know what I was going Somersley Estates with friends. He worked for to do. My friend told me to download Maya, and tips at a restaurant. He even tried one of those he showed me the basics of meshing in Maya. dating agencies. “It was actually through one I had about a month to create something for of those dating agencies where I met this crazy the festival. I proceeded to watch some basic lady (LONG STORY) who introduced me to some tutorials, and with some guidance from my of my best friends on SL. I think a lot of my other friend, I finished meshing my earrings for the friendships blossomed through these initial 50 Shades of Lust event. I still didn’t know much friendships.” about baking metals/different materials and only Page 52 | ECLIPSE August 2020
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knew how to bake AO maps at the time, so they are probably some of the ugliest earrings you may have ever seen because they’re pretty flat in color, but they are my first original mesh item.” After he made the earrings, he set to work for the Xiasumi School Festival. He made a gacha called “Photography Club Essentials” confident that most of the items were basic shapes for which he could find tutorials to help him out of a bind. “I did receive some help from a friend on meshing the more complex item in the gacha, which was a camera. I was super proud of this gacha by the time it was done and so grateful to my friend for letting me be in the Xiasumi festival. I remember specifically making about $200 dollars on this gacha, and it was kind of a huge moment as it was my first time cashing out any sort of money from this platform.” Success buoyed his spirit and inspired him to want to learn more and do more. Over the last five years, he has continued to focus on learning new skills and constantly improving. “If I had to choose my favorite thing I’ve ever made, it’s probably the f*ckboy repellent I made, as it was a silly item, and it’s super fun to run around and spray your friends with.” The stars, the moon, they have all been blown out You left me in the dark No dawn, no day, I’m always in this twilight In the shadow of your heart Cosmic Love - Florence + the Machine Max named his story Cosmic Dust from one of his favorite songs by Florence + The Machine that is called Cosmic Love and from his own “love for all things outer space...I do remember spending like a good week on finalizing the name because I felt like the whole space theme was popular and I didn’t want to upset any other brands when choosing a name as I looked up to many of these creators.”
When envisioning the Cosmic Dust customer, he sees women, though he does occasionally make male clothing. “When I make male stuff, I tend to cater to the gay community as I usually make stuff that I want to wear on my own avatar. I think my female customer base is a big variety of people because I change my style up a lot when making female stuff. Sometimes it’s Kawaii, sometimes it’s more sexy, sometimes it’s edgy. I pretty much just make stuff that I think would be fun to make and it’s as simple as that.” Max is careful to avoid overcommitment. He won’t sign up for an event if he is not inspired from the outset. If it has a theme, he needs to be inspired by the theme or he won’t apply. “I also don’t take on as many events as I used to per month anymore. I try to keep it to three or less because I don’t want to over exhaust myself or feel burned out as this is my creative outlet.” He looks for inspiration in pop culture and current fashion trends. Sometimes, though, ideas just “pop in my head and it’s so simple, but people end up loving it ( for example, the Underbewb crop top I just made for Kustom9.)” He also loves to make hand-held bento props because he loves seeing it come to life with animation and interaction with the avatar. He plans his projects first, then follows the standard work plan of meshing, rigging, and texturing. “Texturing is my favorite part of the whole creative process. Seeing that gray mesh come to life is always super satisfying and such a huge part of bringing a product alive. The textures can either make or break the item.” Next come the vendor pictures and an ad, usually contracted to Geena Carminucci, and making the HUD, boxing things up and setting up the event booth. “I think the most fulfilling part of creating is seeing people buy your products and wear them around. It makes me feel happy to know that people love something I created enough to wear it around the grid.”
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Cosmic Dust customers know Max is not someone who changes and remodels with the seasons or the fads. He admits he doesn’t always maximize its potential. “I have been awful at putting out new releases after events and I’ll be 100% upfront and honest about that.” He hopes to get all his merchandise on Marketplace by the end of the year. “I might end up doing discounted fatpacks and retiring everything from my in-world store at the end of 2020. I then want to start fresh with my main store with new releases and keep up with it.” He is considering hiring someone to help manage the Marketplace and store. “As for releases, I have plenty of fun things planned for the rest of the year, but I like to keep my customers surprised so I’m not going to spill the beans! I may eventually launch a small blog team in 2021 as well.”
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In terms of events, The Epiphany is one of his constants. In part, that is because his best friend Skye [Sailor Nova] and real life roommate owns the event. He is also on the staff team, curating the shopping guide on the web site. “I’m actually known as “The Shopping Guide Gay,” he interjects. He is also the DJ who usually hosts the opening night parties where there are huge giveaways before every round. “We actually just brought those back this past anniversary round in July and it was really fun!” He usually also participates in Kustom9 and Equal10. He doesn’t try to do more because he wants to avoid burnout. He has a full-time job in addition to Second Life. “As long as an event is in good standing, upholds their rules, and treats their designers
well, I am pretty open to most events. There are so many great events on the grid, I wish I could do them all, but my other issue is that a lot of them end up being around the same time so I end up not being able to take them on! I do enjoy Annual/quarterly events for this reason as they add some variety to my schedule.”
While they hoped to open earlier in the year, both Maggie (Magnolia) and Max needed to postpone so they could take time to deal with depression and personal issues. “Anyone who knows us both knows how seriously we take our mental health and how important we feel it is, so we both ended up taking time to ourselves which did end up delaying the opening of the In addition to his store, Max has another club.” While it was not officially open, they addition to his Crazy Beautiful Second hosted some special events including The Life. He and Magnolia [Baby Starlight] plan Epiphany Official Opening party there in to launch Parallel, a venue that will be as July and Max’s birthday party in May. “We much about community as music. “We plan on having a variety of genres play at wanted to launch a fun space to be at where the club on different nights when it opens. anyone is welcome and the drama was left I can’t give an exact opening date since at the door. While the venue does cater to we need to discuss that, but the venue is the LGBT community, anyone and everyone very much still rezzed out and we plan to is welcome, so long as you are an adult on eventually open it up when we feel we are an adult avatar.” ready.” ECLIPSE August 2020 | Page 57
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Second Life has changed quite a bit since his arrival. However, what has changed even more is where and how he spends his time. “I feel like back in the day I used to play it as a ‘game’ and I used to love to explore, roleplay a little bit, play casino games, and have a blast going to clubs. I still hang with friends and go to clubs/shows, but Second Life is more my secondary income and a big creative outlet for me more than anything else. I think all my changes have been pretty positive and great for me and my mental health. My Second Life is now pretty zen and peaceful more than anything else. I spend most of my time on platforms.” In his first life, Max is a 25-year-old Texan who works full-time in what he calls the corporate lifestyle. He loves to travel, try new foods, and explore new places. He enjoys hiking, photography, and graphic design. He also likes making new friends, hanging out with old ones, and he loves music. “Anyone that knows me pretty well knows my favorite artist is Kesha, but I love music in general and love going to concerts. I’ve been really sad about not being able to go to concerts or the Kesha Cruise this year.” Max describes himself as very introverted. On the other hand, people in Second Life assume he is an extrovert, but introversion and extraversion are about more than how outgoing someone might be. In fact, people can be extroverted introverts. When Max says, “I do have extrovert tendencies, but I only open up to people after I’ve gotten to know them for a while,” he sounds like an extroverted introvert. For him, really, it’s about enjoying life. “Over the years I think I’ve started to realize how short life really is, so I try my best to live it to the ‘fullest’. I
know that’s super cliche, but I feel like my life has only just started to begin. I moved halfway across the country, got a good job, and live with my best friend. I think that’s pretty amazing and things are only going to go up from here.” Second Life has also changed his first life. It gave him the chance to earn money while he was a broke college student. He is glad, now, he stuck it out even though at times it was unappealing thanks to the familiar drama that sometimes comes with pseudonymity. By cutting out the toxic interactions and focusing on his store, he was able to find joy in exploring his creative side and in creating virtual something out of virtual nothing. Second Life became fun again. In Second Life, Max found long-lasting friendships even though they are spread all over the country. “It’s still crazy to me that my best friend from SL is my roommate. I definitely have plans to meet some of the other friends I cherish dearly in the future. I can’t say I know exactly how it all happened, but most of my friendships that I cherish the most have formed organically and before I knew it, I cared so much about these people.” One thing Max wants readers to know is they should not be afraid to approach him, introverted or not. “At the end of the day we’re all normal people behind the avatar. I also wanted to thank all my friends and customers for believing in me over the years and supporting my brand and giving me the opportunity to continue making new content and growing Cosmic Dust to where it is now. Plz Stream Kesha on your fave streaming service.”
Oh, oh, oh We’re falling in love Oh, oh, oh ‘Til the sun’s coming up Oh, oh, oh Just living the life Oh, oh, oh Kesha ECLIPSE August 2020 | Page 59
Lin Cosmic D Cosmic Dus Page 60 | ECLIPSE August 2020
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through the lens
s
Each issue, ECLIPSE Magazine invites the many talented photographers from Second Life to collaborate. With this piece, they style, create and share a glimpse through their lens. For this addition, Hayden Dethly and Taylor Wassep visit and explore the Dutchie Red Brick Cafe Building.
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Photographer: Hayden Dethly
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Photographer: Taylor Wassep
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Photographer: Taylor Wassep
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the proust spotli
photography by stat
The Proust Spotlight is our monthly feature where we highlight one of the many creative residents of Second Life®. Utilizing the Proust Questionnaire, whose namesake comes from the late 19th century French writer, we will offer a glimpse into what makes them tick. ECLIPSE Magazine has teamed up with the Blogger & Vlogger Network, so each month the blogger we showcase on the Proust Spotlight is a group member. The group member we feature this month is the talented Static Frenzy. He shares, “I’m honestly just one big nerd. I’m a big gamer so when i found SL i was excited, I didn’t think that nearly 11 year later I’d be doing what i’m doing in it. I love creating pictures and telling stories with my work, especially with my vivid and sometimes wicked imagination.”
ght
tic frenzy.
What do you consider the most overrated virtue? Prudence easily. Sometimes being cautious can help but other times it can really hinder. Never let prudence get in the way of that gut feeling you have. If you feel it’s right for you and the damage won’t be too dreadful then throw caution to the wind, you may end up in a better long term situation because of it. Which words or phrases do you most overuse? Cursing usually. I also tend to make a lot of video game or TV show references in real life that can get the odd weird look when someone isn’t in the loop. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Overcoming a lot of my issues this year to be honest. I’m in a more content and happier place that i was previously and that to me is something i didn’t ever think i’d achieve. If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what would it be? Something not human. I’m really privileged to have a moment on this Earth but if i had the choice after this life i’d like to go somewhere else. Give me spaceships and light years! What do you most value in your friends? Loyalty. It’s not difficult to be loyal and it covers such a broad spectrum in a friendship. What is your motto? “Always try to be nice but never fail to be kind”. Shamelessly stolen from Doctor Who but i really do like it and ever since i heard it i adopted it. Connect with Static on his Flickr.
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The Kitchen corn photography by ma
If there is one thing that brings people together, it is food. The Second Life culture is as rich as its residents, and “The Kitchen Corner” celebrates and showcases the talents of content creators that will appeal to all “foodies.” Collaborating with Mac Massimo of “The SL Spoon,” ECLIPSE Magazine presents an innovative approach on all things food related with fantastic imagery and an equally tried and true accompanying recipe. For our inaugural piece, breathe in deeply, as the delicious aromatics of freshly baked Orange Zest Donuts wafts from Mac Massimo’s kitchen to your virtual plate.
ner c massimo.
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Orange Zest Donut 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp salt 1/4 cup sugar 2 1/4 tsp active dried yeast 4 tbsp butter 1 cup milk 1/3 cup orange juice 2 tbsp orange zest
Orange Glaze 1 cup powdered sugar 3 tbsp orange juice Orange zest to top
Instructions 1. Mix flour, yeast, sugar and salt together. 2. Heat milk, orange juice and butter until luke warm, stir in orange zest. Slowly add the milk mixture into dry ingredients. Mix for two minutes to activate the yeast. 3. Knead the dough until it is tiny and smooth. Then place in a lightly oiled bow and cover with plastic wrap. Allow dough to rise until doubled, about 1.5 to 2 hours. 4. Once risen, on a lightly floured surface, knead the dough to 1/2 inch thick and cut out with donut circles. Place on a baking tray (two inches in between each donut) and cover with cling wrap for 20 to 30 minutes. 5. Brush the top of the donuts with butter and sprinkle the tray with 2 tbsp of water and bake at 350 degrees for 13 minutes. 6. While donuts are baking, make the glaze by whisking the powdered sugar and orange juice. 7. Immediately after baking, dunk each donut in the glaze. Allow it to set, before dunking it one more time than topping with orange zest.
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across the grid
photography by wicca merlin. written by wic
Second Life is vast, where in every part of the grid pieces and themes of fiction can be found. Wicca Merlin curates “Across the Grid� introducing ECLIPSE Magazine readers to fashion and places less known. For this piece, Wicca delves into the world of ballet with fashion and inspiring places to visit.
ca merlin.
Dance is one of the many forms where you can express yourself without words from the graceful way you move to the dramatic expressions painted on your face. Ballet tells a story within strict forms, maintaining elegance and poise, combined with costumes, music, and stage scenery. Even though there are many variations of dance, from your classical ballet all the way to contemporary, ballet started centuries ago as a form of court entertainment in the Italian Renaissance and then moved to France following the marriage between Catherine de MÊdici, an Italian noblewoman and King Henry II of France. The court ballet was usually performed by courtiers and a few professional dancers before it became more refined and formalized. When court ballet disappeared and evolved within two academies established by Louis XIV, it was recognized as a noble dance before then moving forward, merging with opera and then developing and evolving as it expanded g to countries such as Denmark, Italy and Russia. But where does fashion come in with the theatrics of ballet? Through the costumes created for the performances on stage from Swan Lake and The Nutcracker to A MidSummer Night’s Dream, the elegant designs is recognized by defined lines and with some costumes the long flowing tulle that floats freely in a tour jetÊ. You can see the influences of ballet and fashion in modern clothes today, it has taken on many forms from a long flowing wedding gown, summer dresses, the decorated bodice of formal gowns to ballet flats, from simple casual to extravagant formal and avant garde. Most likely the merging of the two came from the drama and romanticism of ballet reinterpreted by famous designers such as Christian Dior, Coco Chanel, and Vivienne Westwood who would take the costume ideas from ballet and reimagine them in a more commercial and accessible form.
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Visit Charlo Page 110 | ECLIPSE August 2020
otte Town. ECLIPSE August 2020 | Page 111
Visit Little Paris Page 112 | ECLIPSE August 2020
- Moulin Rouge. ECLIPSE August 2020 | Page 113
Visit El Page 114 | ECLIPSE August 2020
lysion. ECLIPSE August 2020 | Page 115
artist highlight
Written by taylo
Artistry and creativity are at the foundation of everything we see and do in Second Life. The same is true for all we hear in Second Life. In showcasing residents and groups who embody the concept of “your world, your imagination,” Eclipse Magazine is honored to showcase Second Life’s amazing musical talent. In this month’s “Artist Highlight,” we shine the spotlight on the incredibly talented live singer, Stephanniyah Sinatra.
or wassep.
For many of us, our first taste of Second Life™ usually came from a show or random advertisement on the side of a website. After talking with so many people, from designers to performers; I thought I had heard of all the ways to find out about Second Life. However, I am shocked and upset with myself for forgetting about an episode of The Office where a character by the name of Dwight Schrute is playing on Second Life. Now, one could surmise from Dwight Schrute’s character that he most likely never took advantage of all the creative aspects this platform has to offer; though many of us have. One such person who watched this episode was so captivated they needed to try it out for themselves. Stephanniyah Sinatra was looking for an opportunity to ‘escape’ the social normals and possible stagnant nature our real lives can have sometimes. Since she went down our rabbit hole; there was no looking back for her. After witnessing all the amazing creative and hilarious people here in Second Life, why would she want to leave?
“I’ve created a life and relationships here in Second Life that mean the world to me! This place has become a part of who I am, and I’m so lucky to have found this community - I love it!” A formally trained singer who has performed in so many wonderful venues all across Europe, even singing the National Anthem at a Major League Baseball game in Washington state. Stephanniyah has quite the impressive track record to back up her musical chops. Coming from a musical family in her real life, some of her inspiration comes from artists such asSarah Vaughn, Joni Mitchel,l and creative singersongwriters like Ani DiFranco. Page 120 | ECLIPSE August 2020
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One of the most meaningful songs to Stephanniyah would have to be “Movement,” by Hozier. This is not just because the song itself has quite powerful lyrics and essence. but, that she performed this song for someone quite important to her in her life. This song gives a voice to how she truly feels for this person. Moments like this are always so special when we can solidify our truest feelings for someone through our own unique ways. With a style all her own, Stephanniyah explained that she always tries to perform songs with her own unique interpretation of what the song means to her. What inspires her are songs that are filled with passion and portraying emotional stories. With all the passion, few people would guess she is just as shy as anyone else. I find that to be a common thread with a lot of creative people in both worlds, that they kind of take on this persona of extroverts, but in actuality – are just introverts who perform. I can relate to this so much. Her shyness didn’t stop her from pursuing a career in either world, especially in Second Life. Where she got her start working at the O Lounge. This is where she first met so many amazing artists and learned the ropes. That is exactly what Stephanniyah would advise any aspiring musicians in Second Life or real life. they just have to, *cue the Shia LaBeouf “Just Do It” meme*. To be brave in the moment and allow for your spirit to break free. Everyone wants to hear your talents, it can seem quite intimidating. Once you are in the moment and performing, all those fears fade away and it’s not as daunting as you may have thought it once was. Support from people you care for the most is key too, having that base to rally around you helps so much. For Stephanniyah, she said she owes a lot to people in her life, like Laurie Alexis and the love of her life, Dane Voxel. Speaking of which, if you wish to support Stephanniyah and would love to book her, please contact Olivia Rumble. Listen to Stephanniyah on Youtube. Join Stephanniyah’s in-world group. Check out Stephanniyah’s Calendar. ECLIPSE August 2020 | Page 123
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Voices from the g
Voices From the Grid is a monthly survey of opinions and ideas of Second LifeŽ residents on the salient issues of the day. For this issue, ECLIPSE Magazine we asked residents to share “How has Second Life changed for you over time? What keeps you coming back?
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Photograph provided by Saraharaes Kira.
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araharaes Kira arrived in 2009 and began as a model in several French agencies. Today she is a blogger for Girlz and Boyz. A fan of fashion, she enjoys taking fashion photos as well as music videos. For two years she has been working on video clips and is showing her artistic side. She shares a lot of things about fashion and clothing. Second Life has changed a lot in recent years. The arrival of mesh, bento, and many other incredible things. What makes me come back to Second Life is the clothes, the novelty in fashion. I really like fashion events like Kustom9, uber and many more. I discover beautiful places for photos and I love the specials that are happening on weekends, I do not get bored. Second Life is for me a kind of world in which we travel, we do whatever we want and I would keep coming back because there are new things in Second Life every day. Check out her Flickr, Website and Music Videos.
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Photograph provided by Damien Crow. Page 130 | ECLIPSE August 2020
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amien Crow [argyxa resident] began his journey through Second Life on June 3rd, 2018, seeking out the roleplay communities to discover a fun outlet of creativity outside of his real life. Within just a few months, he discovered several communities that he never knew existed. Then he found out about the world of SL photography which is where he found his true passion. After only a month of experimenting with photography he began to blog for stores and is now an avid blogger for multiple quality stores. When he is not blogging, he’s either building on his platform or spending time with friends. At first when I began my journey through Second Life , it was ever changing. I would find myself anywhere from an anime to vampire communities. But I never quite found something in each of those environments that made me want to stay there long-term. It caused me to bounce from place to place. Until finally, after a few months I discovered SL photography which is where my passion remains today. I think what drew me into this aspect of Second Life is the ability to be creative in any outlet without being stuck within one specific category. The limits of photography, especially in this digital world, are endless. I think that’s what always brings me back to Second Life. The creativity and ability to really bring dreams to life. There is so much that Second Life offers us that we’re able to take advantage of that we can’t do in real life. I believe the ability to create without restraint is the dream of many artists. Which is why so many of us have pooled up here. It’s beautiful and wonderful, something we can all relate to because there’s an outlet for each of us. Through the process of photography, I have met some incredible people as well. Mentors and people that I am so grateful for having in my life, as they give me a smile and a reason to stay in this virtual world. Most of them have remained amazing friends of mine through all this time, some even became family to me. Check out his Blog and Flickr.
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Photograph provided by Trina M. Rae. Page 132 | ECLIPSE August 2020
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rina M. Rae joined SL in 2016 after reading about a world where you can be anything you want, where people create worlds, can fly and teleport to places! As a science-fiction fan it sounded like the THING for her.. In a short time she fell in love with the endless possibilities SL has to offer and started to take her first photographs of her new adventure. After some time of exploring and with the help and inspiration of her best friend and SL sister Chelsea Amelia Doe she turned fully to her passion of fashion and photography and has been a blogger and photographer for nearly three years. I am observing beautiful changes in SL since I am a member. I admire the passion and the imagination of all the designers from across the world that make SL a wonderful place. I am always excited to find new brands, new places to explore and new looks. The diversity in SL makes us an open-minded community where we can express ourselves in many different ways and where we can practice respect for others and finding what we miss in reality maybe. Second Life has become my therapy like my daily me-time. Coming online, taking pictures, and editing them makes me happy and calms me. SL is all about creativity for me and I enjoy it! With my blog I share quotes from my favorite authors and philosophers. With those quotes I try to cheer myself and others up. Sometimes i just want to share my emotions. And sometimes I want to make people think. Check out her Flickr and Blog.
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Photograph provided by Luka.
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uka [lakaluka] is set for an arranged marriage, which is not the life she was hoping for, so she thought she could have what she wanted virtually in SecondLife, She joined Second Life in 2017 and quickly she found out that SL photography is her passion. She bought a new laptop and started a photography career and has been doing that ever since and posting on social media platforms. She also has a small marketplace store where she sells her shapes and some favorite gacha items. Frankly, being in Second Life was not easy for me at the beginning, but my partner helped me in every aspect of this virtual life, I could have left Second Life a long time ago if it were not for him. I started to enjoy being in Second Life and having friends. Above all helping others and my photography career are what I enjoy the most, both are big part of what making me log in everyday. Another reason for me to keep coming back is that I feel the appreciation of others for what I do, it kind of makes me really happy to be recognized for what I do even though I know I am still learning and haven’t mastered anything. I am fortunate that people are kind enough to make me feel that I have. However, the main reason is that I can’t get enough of what I need in my life and I want to live it the way I want. Unfortunately that’s not always the case where I live, so having the opportunity to live another life the way I want even if its a virtual life lessens the pain and makes me feel good Check out her Flickr, Facebook, Blog and Marketplace.
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Photograph provided by Flow.
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low [Vayzen] joined Second Life in 2018. She has been a blogger/photographer since the end of 2018 and has been working as a graphic designer for Elite Paris since May 2020. She loves fashion hence her pleasure in being a blogger. She enjoys spending time with her close friends, listening to music and dancing until late night. I arrived in Second Life in October 2018, but in almost two years I’ve been able to see some changes. First of all, I arrived on Second Life thanks to a Youtube video of Bollycoco, an SL Youtube user who became my friend. I was familiar with basic virtual platforms, I wanted to try SL to enhance my graphic skills without really knowing what to expect. And that was the big surprise!
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Being French I immediately went to do FR sims, but I didn’t linger in them, because what I wanted to do mainly was fashion photography. In December 2018 I started taking photos and until today I haven’t stopped, because that’s what I like to do mainly on SL. In almost two years I have been working with four sponsors like, Cynful, Evie, Moncada Paris and Elite Paris. I would never have thought from my very early days of SL that I could work with recognized brands and I am grateful that my work is enjoyed. Next, let’s talk about relationships! In two years, I made several virtual meetings. Some have only been in my virtual life, others have become real friends and this is what makes the magic of Second Life, to one day be able to meet beautiful people who are part of your life today. For some it will be reciprocal, for others maybe not, but that’s what makes me love this platform and makes my Second Life better. In addition, I hope to evolve to be able to work with sponsors as a blogger, but also to work for an Elite Paris brand to start in May 2020 during Covid-19 as a graphic designer. I couldn’t have thought of putting my real work to good use with a brand on Second Life. I love what I do, especially when you work with a team who are your friends. Finally, all these evolutions, these changes, these meetings, make me grow, make me evolve. For me, being a blogger and graphic designer in Second Life is not a job, but a pleasure. Second Life is constantly evolving, there is so much to do that I never tire of it, that’s what I love and what makes me come back to Second Life. Check out her Flickr, Facebook, Instagram and Elite Paris.
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Photograph provided by Tati Setner.
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ati Setner [tatiananikolay Resident] joined SL in 2016 and became a blogger a year later, after enjoying the fashion and decor that SL offers. She continues to take pictures, blog, and enjoy time with family.
Second Life has changed for me over time in many ways. When I first joined SL, I didn’t know anyone and just wandered around regions. Then I was exploring some profiles and saw some of them had fashion blogs. After reading some of them, I was intrigued. I’ve always loved photography in RL, so I figured I could maybe do the same in SL. I started my blog in 2017 and still blog to this day. On occasion, I still get out and explore regions, usually if I get bored. I enjoy looking at how the owners designed and landscaped regions. I know it takes a lot of time and patience to put that much effort into landscaping and designing, so I like spending time looking at the details. Some places inspire me for my blog pics. The biggest reason now for me coming back to SL is my family. This year I found myself part of a huge, kind, loving, and amazing family. Something is always going on whether we are going to one of my dad’s or sister’s shows, having adventures, or just hanging out and talking. There is always someone from the family to talk to or hang out with. Now I cannot imagine my SL or RL without my family. Check out her Blog and Flickr.
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Photograph provided by Lis Casacarino.
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is Cascarino joined Second Life in 2009. Because she is very passionate about the world of fashion and everything that it encompasses, she took courses and started modeling in-world. Then she was COO of Absolut Model Agency until 2011. Absolut was the largest Brazilian modeling agency in SL for years. Later, she started blogging, something she continues to this day. For me, the main changes were related to the residents’ profile and behavior, especially in relation to using social networks. Being in the game since 2009, I was able to follow the beginning of mesh, bento, BOM. I think that all these enhancements were very significant, making it even more realistic. However, none of these matches how much more active residents are on social media like Facebook, for example, than directly on the grid. Many are logged in for work only. I miss the interactions in communities within SL! What makes me return are the friendships I have built over these eleven years. People with whom I have created real bonds and who are an extension of my RL. SL makes it possible for us to be together “physically�, even though each one lives in one place. In addition, my work motivates me to be online daily, be it taking photos or visiting events, or looking for new items to enrich my posts! Check out her Flickr, Facebook, Instagram and Blog.
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Photograph provided by Ivyana Szondi.
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vyana Szondi is a model, stylist, photographer, blogger, and designer. She has been active in Second Life since 2007. Some of Ivyana’s achievements include being MISS SL 2016, winning the Face of Livglam in 2014, and placing 4th in Colour of Couture in 2013. In her spare time, Ivyana enjoys hanging out with friends, shopping, and people-watching. When I first came to Second Life, I didn’t know what to expect. There was so much to take in and I was in awe. I started walking around the grid and exploring. For a time, meeting new people, shopping, and going to raves was my only interest. Later, I found out how to take snapshots. Capturing my travels around the grid was thrilling. With each photo, I wanted to know how to do more with my raw snapshots. Thankfully, residents like Strawberry Singh made tutorials for photography and windlights. It opened up a new world for me. Around 2008, I discovered modeling which I pursued for several years. This had begun my longtime love for fashion in Second Life. The amount of time it must have taken for designers to produce such exquisite content blew my mind. Having the chance to walk with and work for some of the greatest people on the grid was a dream come true. In 2013, a friend suggested that I start a blog. I was hesitant because I didn’t think I would be any good. Once I started, I truly enjoyed it. Being able to share my photography with a larger audience was fantastic. Blogging has become an unexpected passion of mine. In the midst of it all, I found my love of nine years. When Doug and I met, we didn’t have any expectations of where this would go. It started out with us having long talks and hanging out on Second Life. Later, we would speak on Skype and trade real-life pictures. Finding real love in a virtual world was serendipity. I can’t thank Second Life enough for bringing us together! Nowadays, I am trying my hand at creating. Learning how to create with mesh seemed beyond my abilities. Opening Blender left me feeling intimidated. I am still a novice yet I have found a new creative outlet. Someday I want to become a great designer like the ones I have admired all these years What keeps me coming back to Second Life is endless creativity. It’s amazing how one can jump from one art project to another in different genres. Longlasting friendships also keep me attached to Second Life. The people I have met here are wonderful. It’s been a long ride but I have enjoyed it all. Check out her Flickr, Facebook, Blog and Zaiko.
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Photograph provided by Kalliope.
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alliope [Amanda Sole] joined Second Life in May 2014 quite by chance. Being an educator teaching English, she came across a textbook reference on the ‘Second Life Game’ and decided to see for herself. She spent the first couple of years getting to know the grid and its people. Accumulating experiences, she crossed all the spectrum of emotions from happiness, companionship and friendship to distress and frustration. Then she decided to delete her account. However, a week later she managed to retrieve it from LL and put things right: she made her Second Life meaningful by finding her niche. She got into photography and blogging in the fall of 2017 as an amateur, after reading a post from Strawberry Singh who she had been following without fail. Ever since she has never stopped her work, striving to climb the -as she says-‘steep slopes’ of blogging. She has blogged for many amazing designers in the grid and hopes to blog for many more in the future. The journey into Second Life has been an amazing one for me. If I were to describe the changes of my life in the grid, I’d say I went through two distinct phases. The first three years of my existence in the community were spent in exploring, experimenting and doing what every other newbie does. I joined quite by chance in what I thought was an attempt to understand what my students in RL might be experiencing playing online games. This came during a hard time in my real life. A time when I was being betrayed by my best friend as well as my boyfriend. I felt but I did not want to acknowledge, which pretty much was my attitude to all the abusive relationships in my life. And, believe me, they were not few, in my professional, family and intimate life alike. And exactly this attitude is what marks my first Second Life phase. The Blind phase lasted for a bit less than 3 years. During this time, I hid myself behind my avatar, took up identities and roles that subconsciously redeemed me for my real life shortcomings. My avatar was an unforgettable woman, wearing all the latest fashions, impressive and seductive with no weaknesses. I expected Second Life to give me what I longed for in Real Life. This did not happen. Simply because no one can change you but yourself. So I ended up in the same place as I was in reality. Frustrated, I deleted my account. This action, somehow, triggered a reasoning and a revelation: our lives are largely what we want them to be. Amanda Sole was not responsible for what was happening to her. Kalliope was! I rushed back to reactivate my account and I did! [Click here to continue story]
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very der Rabe [averymew2] joined Second Life four years ago, first starting out as a vampire. She very quickly became obsessed with clothing, and customizing her avatar to her wildest imagination possible. She started photography and blogging in 2017 and it stuck with her ever since. She’s collaborated with others such as Melly Clarrington, Pickle, and Chuu Akamine. She’s always finding ways to make her work tell a story. I believe Second Life has become a haven for my creative work, as it has become for many others! I believe there has been a major community shift in what Second Life is and what it means. I guess that’s why I’m here answering this question. People love to find their style and themselves in their Second Life. That’s why I believe people keep coming back, and why I come back as well. I feel as a blogger, I can give people a story with my work, as well as reacting positively. Especially when our first lifes are doing the opposite, making us react negatively. I also come back for a certain someone named Mel Firewall. I believe we connect strong bonds with others over Second Life we may not have thought could not happen. At least I didn’t until I met my sister Mel. She sometimes gets in a fog, and doesn’t have the focus for designing (After Midnight Fashion) I always log on to make sure I encourage and lift her up when she’s not feeling the best. This brings me to the point of the Second Life community always lifting others in the community up. Referencing the Suicide Prevention Sims we have in place for those who are in need of uplifting. I think that is another point of Second Life that also keeps me online. Check out her Flickr, Blog and Survivors of Suicide.
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Photograph provided by Bree Coy.
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ree [Bree Coy] is a dreamer who joined Second Life in July 2010. She read a magazine article about SL and thought it sounded interesting. At that time, she believed that SL was a game very similar to “The Sims” but the difference that each avatar was a real person. It sounded brilliant. After a few years passed, she realized that life in SL could be as hard as real life. After suffering some negative events in her Second Life that affected her in real life, she decided to start taking photos of things she liked as a way to heal herself of bad thoughts. In 2014, she created her blog called Make Your Look and it continues to this day. She is always trying to improve her photos but never forgets where she came from. Technically speaking, Second Life improved a lot over the years. In 2010 I never imagined Mesh or fitted mesh as we see in-world now. I was very happy with my noob clothes of prim and tons of lights and sparkle particles. Those of us who joined Second Life during the bling era will never forget. Unfortunately, I had to step away from SL around 2012 for personal reasons. A close friend of mine who knew that I love to take photos encouraged me to come back saying there were so many new things happening there that could make my photos be more realistic. When I logged again after a two-year break, I was amazed! New mesh clothes were surging with mesh bodies and heads, everything was so beautiful and revolutionary that I got excited to start blogging. I created a small pose store on Marketplace as a way to distract myself in Second Life and to help others see the news happenings in our world. Maybe I’m still a fool, because I never thought that they could improve on mesh, but now they added Baked on Mesh (BOM). Now I can use some old items that I still have on my inventory and they fit very well. Oh! Let’s not forget about the creators of Animesh too, it is absolutely amazing to see pets or hairs moving again. This allowed me to create better scenes for my photos, like the mermaid and the techno ones on my Flickr. But my answer to “What keeps you coming back?”, I believe that involves two sides of myself: the professional and the personal. I just can’t give up on my blog anymore because I really love the creators who support me and like my work. And I have friends that are still with me since 2010, we all know that this is a rare thing even in real life, imagine in a second one? Ten years of friendship. Some of them even met my parents in RL . So after all this time in SL I learned to give attention to the good things and people and if I could give you guys a bit of advice it would be to start the things you want to do even though you don’t know that much to start and don’t think about others’ opinion, because everyone starts from somewhere. Check out her Flickr, Facebook, Instagram and Blog.
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Photograph provided by Sady.
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ady (say dee) [Sady Littlepaws] joined SL in 2006 and continues to be amazed by the grid-wide creativity. Sady enjoys blogging, photography, shopping, and hanging out with her friends. She also loves working and it’s a good thing considering that she currently has eight management jobs in Second Life. She absolutely loves working alongside brilliant creators. She can often be found enjoying a cup of coffee at her favorite hangout. SL has changed me a lot more than I could have imagined. I met my now exhusband in SL in 2007. That was a pretty big change, as I never wanted to get married in the first place, much less to some man whole was 12 years younger than me and lived across the country. I’ve met about a dozen people in real life from Second Life. Some have become lifelong friends, others….not so much. LOL Most of all, SL has taught me a lot about myself. I’ve learned to focus on the things that I enjoy and to cut out things I don’t. At first, that was something I only figured out how to do in SL and with SL, but I’m starting to do the same thing in real life. While I readily admit that I’m fully addicted to SL, I can comfortably say that I have no desire to shut it down and walk away. It’s an extension of my life, I don’t keep it separate. While my avatar looks nothing like me in real life, the personality is all me. I keep coming back, because of the connections I make with the amazing communities within the SL community and I can change clothes 100 times a day without worrying about laundry! LOL Check out her Flickr, Facebook, Instagram and Blog.
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Photograph provided by Mystererock.
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ystereROCK Anderton joined SL in 2007. In RL, she dedicated herself to photography and began to venture into the same in her Second Life. She studied photography in Rl with two great photographers, Ataulfo Perez Aznar and fashion photographer Gabriel Machado. She was somewhat absent in SL for more than two years while studying a lot in RL. With the quarantine and all the time in the world, she returned to delight us with her photography with a particular and somewhat sophisticated style enhanced by her experience in professional photography, adding depth of field and a style of lighting that sets her apart. Second Life changed my life a little in the early years when I spent many hours in-world, perhaps leaving aside many things, such as physical activity, among others. After being on the receiving end of a lot of bullying, I did not log in as much. It seems the people who wave their flag to highest against bullying are the same people who do it, presenting a double face to the world. So I logged in about once a week. They said I was lifeless, envious, accused me of copying, of being ignorant, crazy, and without talent ... among some of the things they told me. I left SL. I decided to focus on my studies and take care of myself. I returned to the physical activities I had neglected while in SL. I began to enjoy life. I realized how much time SL took from my experience. I related to normal people, to people who studied photography, to artists in RL and SL. And that’s how they made me see that what the other says speaks more about them than about me. Now with the quarantine, I returned to enjoy it again with photography, which is what I do in SL, and with confidence that no one can take from me. Check out her Flickr, Facebook, Instagram and Blog.
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Photograph provided by Trudy Monae Bloodman.
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rudy Monae Bloodman [Trudithrose Resident]is your friendly neighborhood, part-time blogger, part-time megafabulicious dork extraordinaire. Once an introverted loner upon coming into existence in 2012, she can now be found in the company of her SL family, the amazing, Bloodmoons when she’s not nose deep in creating eye popping blog shots. I was initially introduced to the world of Second Life through a friend who thought it was the perfect platform for me to explore my “adult” roleplay skills. This was some time in 2008. Unfortunately, as quickly as I was introduced, I was left to my own devices. I was enamored with this world though. The concept of having an avatar, interacting with clothes, objects etc was fascinating to me. I wanted to be part of this world. I was never really a “gamer” but rolling around on my own in here, that’s what SL felt like to me. A game to explore. I could be my introverted self without any sort of judgement. Exploration always led to learning. So I’d join groups related to what I enjoyed which was mainly shopping cause the roleplay thing fell through. Skip forward two talts, I eventually met some awesome peeps that drew my attention to the family friendly side of SL that involved kid avatars. I was thoroughly tickled by the concept of being this sassy little black girl who knew her mind, had a fashion sense and was confident as fudge!! Only because when I was a kid, I was as far from that as possible. I rolled around on this avatar as a kiddo and eventually discovered my fascination for blogging. I loved it!!! I branched off from kid blogging to blogging as an adult because I didn’t feel like I had to limit myself. I now blog mostly in my adult form but spend time as a kid avatar with my SL fam, The Bloodmoons. They are some of the most down-to-earth group of people and even though this is Second Life, I can share pieces of my first life with them and vice versa. I have to say that SL has been a big help in helping me grow socially. There is something about typing that makes it easier for me to communicate without the anxiety of being self-conscious about how I look, sound, act. For me, weirdly enough, I feel like my REAL personality shows through to those who are dear to me in this Second Life even around me roleplaying as a kid. And when I want to enjoy that option of being real, I get on voice, allowing myself to be comfortably awkward and vulnerable with people I have grown to trust and enjoy. Real conversations are had around the fun goofy stuff we do together. I keep coming back for those connections I have made. Some of these people have my cell phone number or my skype tag. [Click here to continue story]
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Photograph provided by Joss Floss.
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oss Floss [Jossinta Resident] recently celebrated her ninth birthday, having first rezzed on 23rd July 2011. She is a fun person with a fun name and she has lots of friends. She chose her own surname Floss after entering Second Life on the advice of a boyfriend who admired her collection of skinny bikinis. But it’s also an appropriate name as she loves flossin’ and showin’ off! She is currently single and happy to be so. Over the years, Joss has been involved in a lot of adventurous projects. One of them was setting up a band called the Black Magic Women. The band played rock concerts across the grid, backed by amazing stage sets and light shows. Joss was the lead singer and wild star of the group as anyone who has seen their concerts will attest. Later, she helped set up the Blue Casbah Club, a francophone nightclub that ran a program of varied cultural events for a year. It was a melting pot of music, art and libertine adventure from beginning to eventual demise. Events included a Second Life Woodstock festival with live acts and the first Second Life Sexual Olympics. The next project was the creation of Flossify, an artistic collaboration among friends that incorporated La Fabrik club, the Flossify Art Gallery (hosting many visiting artists) and The Beach Shack Theatre. The Flossify project has now been running for five years, attracting many visitors. As DJ Flossy, Joss parties every Monday from 12-2 pm SLT at La Fabrik club. In recent years, Joss has spent more time making photographs and art in Second Life. She has now made 6 exhibitions in different galleries. Some of these have been reviewed and well received. She is currently preparing her seventh exhibition. Her work can be seen on Flickr. What keeps me coming back to Second Life is firstly my many friends, secondly the chance it gives me to escape for a period from reality and, thirdly, the pleasure I get from DJing and making art in Second Life. Second Life is a form of freestyle video-gaming and it should be a pleasurable experience. We should allow each other to play roles and to take on characters and characteristics that are not possible in our daily lives. Nearly all of Second Life is role-playing and those who say it is not are mistaken in my opinion. This being said, Second Life can have serious intent, notably as a place for learning. We can learn a great deal from sharing stories and information with friends and we can also learn about human behaviour and the dynamics of relationships. Many of my friends in Second Life are French or francophone and it is through this route that I have enriched my knowledge and understanding of French culture and my skill in the French language. [Click here to continue story]
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[Cont. from page 145] This was the beginning of the Awareness phase. In this second era, I have been my real self! Second Life has been a life school for me. A school that I am following to this day amazed by what I have been learning. I discovered that who you are affects your environment and I put this knowledge into use in my real life! I ‘deleted’ ‘blocked’ and ‘muted’ the toxic relationships and I took control exactly as I had done in Second Life! I added my real life name -Kalliope as a token of celebrating my real self and now I am blessed with having beautiful people around me in both lives, but the main thing is that I found who I want to be! Second Life gave me a creative outlet that I was lacking. As a life-long learner I needed an incentive, something to spice up my need for new experiences and I found it right here in SL. Photography and eventually blogging for some of the most amazing content creators in the grid has and will be a source of satisfaction and creativity. I hope I still have so much to learn-I know I have! One thing is certain. I am enjoying this ride tremendously and I will seek every opportunity to learn and grow because there is only one me in both lives! This is what keeps me coming back! Check out her Blog, Flickr and Facebook. [Cont. from page 155] In the unlikely event that everyone I know were to gravitate away from SL, blogging is my hobby now. Real life drew me away from my creative side and I didn’t realize how much I had starved it in RL. In SL, I’m inspired and in awe of the astounding talent of others in SL. From meshers, to animators the sky’s the limit. I was once bummed out that I didn’t have anything to contribute and that sounds silly coming from a medical-surgical nurse of 15 years experience Page 158 | ECLIPSE August 2020
but I found my little creative thing. Some people collect stamps, some people knit, some people vlog. I enjoy SL photography and blogging because of the stories I can tell within these shots while showing off the fun items I have picked up from shopping or from my amazing sponsors. I am still self-conscious that I can’t photo-edit to save my life, but I’m proud of the improvements I have made. I enjoy it IMMENSELY and it’s a nice distraction from all things stressful. SL is part of my world now. Check out her Flickr and Blog. [Cont. from page 157] Second Life has changed for me in the way I relate to other people. Initially when I entered Second Life, I was what you might call an “emotional griefer”, egotistically playing men and women’s heart-strings, trying to get them to fall in love with me and ending up hurting them in some way or other. It’s difficult to admit this, but it’s true, and possibly true for a great many other people as well. I certainly have some evidence of it. As the years have passed, I realised that this gaming approach to love and relationships was foolish and hurtful, and I realised I had most likely hurt many people in this way. I’m ashamed about that and I now take more distance. I don’t pursue people’s affections. I wait for them to come to me if they want to and when they do I treat them in a thoughtful and courteous way. This new behaviour has allowed me to approach my life in a more relaxed and organised way. I have regular DJ gigs and I’m now known and often requested to DJ at events, sometimes with up to 50 attendees. I don’t mind spending time preparing an entertaining set of songs when so many people are going to listen and enjoy. Check out her Flickr, Marketplace, Flossify Parcel and Blog.
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THE wayfarer...
photography by minn
“The Wayfarer� is a monthly feature showcasing some of the most aesthetic places in Second LifeŽ. From where the Wayfarer landed, he took four flights of stairs up to find himself amongst a bustling city. The lit signs for bars, restaurants and everything in between illuminated his path, as he explored the narrow streets. Venturing further through alleys, he came upon a small marketplace where vendors sold flowers, fresh fruit, vegetables and seafood, even bootleg VHS tapes. Little World tugged at the chords of nostalgia that played upon his heart, the first place to remind him of places he visited in his youth.
nie dethly.
Immerse yourself in Little World.
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the way you inspi
photography by hayden dethly. written by taylo
One of the best aspects of Second Life is how it makes a large world seem infinitely smaller. It grants its residents the opportunity to meet and develop friendships and relationships with people that would otherwise be impossible. There are people who enter our Second Life and for whatever reason they inspire us. ECLIPSE Magazine’s newest monthly piece, “The Way You Inspire,” is dedicated to these incredible individuals. For this piece, we interview Del Flower and Geena Carminucci, and they share why they are inspired by Maia Rae. If you would like to nominate someone for our upcoming piece, please fill out this form.
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Within Second Life™, we have the opportunity to meet people from all across this planet, people from all walks of life,and people from different backgrounds. These people can have an immense effect on our lives, both virtual and real. This is the reason why ECLIPSE’s “The Way You Inspire” was created. To shine a blinding light on those individuals who we say inspired us everyday. Maia Rae, the Chicken Mom, is a Jack of all Trades, according to Geena Carminucci. Maia has worked as a Customer Service Representative for a few companies and that isn’t the only hat she has worn. She has the patience and fortitude to interact with total strangers. Maia can balance that pressure with clear communication because she listens to people, really listens to them so she can give her best.
“She doesn’t have the ‘tell you like it is’ harsh-type personality.” – Geena Carminucci Outside of work, having a friend like Maia is a rock. If you allow her into your life, you will have a solid support system whom you could go to with anything. Just like with her work, in her personal life Maia will listen and give the best, sound advice you could wish for. Besides her kind and considerate manner, Maia has a wicked sense of humor. She is said to have a light-hearted way of going about giving her solicited advice. She deliversit in a way that you, as her friend, can actually receive and apply to your life. Maia is a kind and supportive friend to everyone she meets, which is honestly refreshing during these hard times. She seems to go out of her way to create positive experiences for people simply because she wants the people she cares for to be happy. ECLIPSE August 2020 | Page 185
We have all had friends where they say something and we immediately disagree with them because we believe we know best. Not with Maia, because according to her friends, she has this uncanny ability to still give the tough love without the sting. This makes her an even more important factor in the lives she is a part of. This is yet another reason why she inspires people everyday.
“Maia is very considerate in tiny ways that she doesn’t even think about…It’s the little things like that which tell you someone’s true character. “ – Del Flower Now, you could be wondering, “How can someone so apparently sweet and nice enjoy the internet?” Simply put, it’s the community she comes back for. Coming to Second Life, Maia and some friends came from a similar open chat platform. The kicker though, English isn’t Maia’s first language. She is from Puerto Rico, a place she has so much pride for and home to the most important people in her life. It was through Second Life that she was able to learn and develop her English, despite its notorious difficulty. Maia’s friends know how to find her in her free time—at music venues catching some tunes. Don’t be surprised to learn either that she is the first to send out Dance HUD invites to those who might not have a dance to use.
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Maia is very creative as well, though she has not posted a photo of herself online in a couple of years. She has this point of view that is very minimalist, sprinkled with emotion and a clean, sleek style that always blows her friends away. So it’s safe to say that I’m sure the next time you are out and about and you check someone’s profile out of curiosity; chances are that their profile photo was done by this little “Picture Fairy.” Speaking of which, Maia, being the kind person she is, used to and maybe still does this small gesture of kindness. She would take random pictures of people while out at events or hangouts, edit the pictures, and then drop them to those random people as gifts. In addition to being generous and kind, Maia is just super down to earth. Her friends would discuss what life might be like if any of them won the lottery. Of course, most people would want to spend some of that money on gifts or new purchases. But Maia is different, more structural it appears. If she were to win the lottery, she would pay off her house, cover all the bills she has, and live her day-to-day life without that need to worry about finances again. Maia seems to wear many hats, a caring friend, excellent CSR, talented photographer and brilliant Chicken Mom. Each hat she wears, she wears it with pride. She wears it with the intent to do good and put positivity out into the world. That kind of mentality is something desperately sought after during these rough times we all are experiencing. So Maia, thank you for being an inspiration for good in this world.
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the art perspect
PHOTOGRAPHY BY gidge uriza. written by gi
Each piece, ECLIPSE Magazine discovers, reviews and highlights the work of some of the most creative and talented artists on the grid, offering a fresh perspective in the vibrant and vast world of the arts. For this month’s feature, Gidge Uriza discovers the The Vordun Museum and Gallery.
tive
idge uriza.
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There are a lot of different versions of this pixel life that people enjoy. I tend to enjoy a bit of a fantasy version of a more realistic world. Others like whimsy and things which are otherworldly. What is amazing about this grid of ours is how there is room for both.n fact the grid is richer for being made up of a variety of amazing experiences of all flavors.
painting, but the somber reminder of the end of the story is such a dark contrast as you look at the opulence of the painting. The opulence itself was the cause of her ruin, which makes the painting even more tragic, despite it’s happy moment captured.
Each master work is elaborated on with grace, sharing insight and details you might not have This month I traveled to VORDUN art gallery known despite having “looked” at that image and the first thing that struck me was that many times. I looked at every piece, enjoying it was, in fact, an art gallery in the most real the detail and really appreciating the fact that world sense. The wide, open foyer gusseted by this gallery was built to appeal to a real life a coat check immediately had my attention. As avatar experience. a girl who likes an afternoon stroll through an art gallery, this felt like home. Tucked neatly around a corner, with an entrance hall that is a burst of color is an An immediate difference from your run of the exhibit dedicated to UKIYO-E—or Japanese mill art gallery on the grid was the notice of woodblock art. In addition to explanation of a HUD providing an experience that I would how this artwork is created, there is a detailed liken to renting the headphones as a special story about the art form as history and its exhibit. It was an immediate refreshing representation as art in it’s time. From book surprise to pace the gallery with a soothing illustrations to advertising, UKIYO-E is a unique voice in my ear, telling me the story of the art and distinct art form that is today directly work. associated with Japan as soon as one sees it. I wasn’t very familiar with this style, although I The VORDUN gallery first floor is made up of had seen it many times, and l lingered here to master works and it’s a delight. Some images learn more. you’ve seen before, so many times, that it’s At the end of the first floor is a special exhibit hard to actually stop and look at them and of Monet. I was delighted to see not just the consider them for what they were. Marie more famous Impressionist works—who Antoinette with her children, such a happy doesn’t love Water Lilies—but the still life
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works, and other pieces that also defined his skill and passion were a welcome break from the more traditional and sometimes over covered works.
to redecorate if I acquired them, but the detail and beautiful golden threads of tapestries are something to behold. I was excited to see them included.
The VORDUN Gallery is built to accommodate avatars of all needs, featuring a working elevator if perhaps you are not able to walk up the stairs. While this might seem trivial, if one were an avatar with a broken leg, or in a wheelchair, I could see this as being a bright light in your art gallery adventures. I was frankly just tickled that the elevator WORKED. The broader concept of welcoming those with avatars with alternate needs ingratiates me further.
To further prove that this is the perfect embodiment of a real museum experience in our pixel lives, the trip ends with a real gift shop where you can buy real items. Fancy a tee shirt? Fancy a book? What about a postcard? Can I contain my joy when I share those things and more all ALL available at Vordun.
On the second floor was a whimsical exhibit celebrating Postcrossing—which is a program where strangers can receive postcards from around the world. Jake Vordun has clearly signed up and received many postcards as a result. They were so fun to read, people sharing about the places they live with such joy. It makes me think Gidge should sign up! My last exhibit stop was a celebration of tapestries in the grand tradition of European courts. Tastefully the pieces chosen celebrate not just wall tapestries, but also the intricate embroidery that was done on chairs for royal households. I covet them all and would have
It was during my acquisition of said objects that I stumbled upon a truth that showed me why this museum is amazing and a perfect picture of real life in our world. It’s been created by Jake Vordun, the designer behind FANCY DECOR who is a genius at recreating classic works for our digital world. I’ve long been a fan of his work, secretly fangirling him from afar and decorating my home with the fruits of his talent. If you enjoy a reality perfected in a digital space, VORDUN Gallery is the art stop you need to make this month. Visit The Vordun Museum and Gallery inworld.
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