ECLIPSE Magazine June 2020

t i n k

J u n e

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Contents

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Through the Lens

For this issue, we had our photographers show us through their lens how they celebrate pride.

Places to Go

Not knowing where to go and what to do is often a recurring theme. This issue we showcase five places to visit.

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100.

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Across the Grid

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The Art Perspective

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Voices from the Grid

Wicca Merlin introduces us to the world of steampunk in Second Life.

Proust Spotlight

Teaming up with the Blogger & Vlogger Network, we shine the spotlight on the talented Maria.

World of Roleplay

A new magical roleplay community has opened, we introduce: Fledge Rock and Grindelbane Academy.

Our art piece returns with Gidge Uriza as she visits the Sisse Singh Art Gallery.

Each issue ECLIPSE Magazine asks residents a question, see what they have to say.

s

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.

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Cover Story Tink & Coral Cover Photographer Geena Carminucci

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The Wayfarer

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Artist Highlight

186.

The Way You Inspire

Writer Cajsa Lilliehook

Join the Wayfarer as they travel the grid, visiting Frogmore.

This month we present talented live singer, TJ O. Joubert.

We share the story of Nene Chrome from the perspective of Marqs DeSade.

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executive team

Trouble dethly Publisher

minnie fae dethly

cajsa lilliehook

june fallon

sol may valor

Assistant Editor

Creative Director

Copy Editor

Social Media Manager

the c

writers

photographers

Cajsa Lilliehook Gidge Uriza Minnie Fae Dethly Novaleigh Freng Taylor Wassep Wicca Merlin

Cassie Middles Geena Carminucci Gidge Uriza Hayden Dethly June Fallon Minnie Fae Dethly Novaleigh Freng Taylor Wassep Wicca Merlin

stylists Cassie Middles Hayden Dethly Minnie Fae Dethly Taylor Wassep Wicca Merlin

guest stylist & photographer Harley Heartsong & Sylvia Olivier

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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Last issue, it only took two tries to convert the magazine to PDF file, so I could upload it onto issuu. I consider that progress considering that the previous issues took well close to a dozen times. I suppose ensuring the photos aren’t ridiculously larger than need be has helped.

Besides that, I am really happy. Truthfully, I am not fond of the word “really.” I feel like it’s a weak adverb, and that there are enough words in the English language that if I want to describe my happiness… there are far better words to use. Except, there is a simplicity to it. Almost as if it were a state of being. I could say that more often than not, I’ve found the corners of my lips curve up to form a smile. Perhaps, I could also say that there are countless moments in my day that I have this feeling in my heart, as if it could burst from the way it is filled. Even then, it sounds so cliche, but have you ever taken a deep breath and before exhaling you take another quick intake of breath? You already feel full, but that extra little bit just takes you over the top. I am happy like that. Mostly because of my girlfriend, but my friends play a part too, so does my family and my dogs. I used to be content, and it is now that I have truly realized that being content is just a shadow of what happiness is.

On to the issue, I genuinely love our cover story. I have said it so many times, but if I had to describe ECLIPSE at its core… we are storytellers of people and places. Often times the people featured on our cover story are defined and known by what they do in Second Life. And each month, they give us the opportunity to see who they are and to share their story. I’m thrilled to share the story of Tink and Coral.

We have a total of eleven pieces this month, and I do hope you enjoy them.

Happy Readings!

letter from the PUBLI

ISHER

Wow I can’t believe it’s June already, I guess time flies when you’re waiting for August to get here.

I’m pretty excited about this month’s issue we are featuring two people I really look up to, and some beautiful places to escape. I will say personally go check out Frogmore, my photos really did not do it justice plus there is so much to see there. I’ve struggled writing my note to you all this month, as it seems there is so much going on and it’s hard to approach it.

I guess in the theme of pride, I will tell you that it’s never too late to live your truth. I was someone who fought my sexuality until my late 20s, and I didn’t really ‘out’ myself to my family till this past year. Second Life has done a lot for me in terms that I was able to think outside the small circle, and found the comfort in being myself. I feel as I quickly approach my mark of becoming 30 in October this is the happiest and healthiest I’ve ever been. I am so thankful for my family, my loving girlfriend and my friends. So for those of you that are struggling or unsure, make sure you know you’re on no one else’s timeline but your own. Your happiness is out there.

y l h t e D e a F e i n n Mi

letter from the edito

or

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through the lens

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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, Minnie Dethly, Sylvia Olivier and Taylor Wassep show off their pride.

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Photographer: Hayden Dethly

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Photographer: Sylvia Olivier

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Photographer: Taylor Wassep

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Photographer: Taylor Wassep

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Photographer: Minnie Dethly

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There’s No Need to Comp photography by cassie middles, coral lacey, geena carminucci & tinker hax. writt

plicate It en by cajsa lilliehook.

There’s no need to complicate it Dress it up or overstate it Without too much hesitation Here’s the way I feel Tinker Hax and Coral Lacey are in love. Sure, they have also organized the SL Pride at Home hop and shop event to celebrate Pride while stay-athome precautions have canceled Pride events across the globe. This is salient and newsworthy.

And yes, they both have strong careers in Second Life that are more than enough grist for a story. But what the world needs now is love, sweet love, and Tinker Hax and Coral Lacey are in love, sweet love.

It is pure serendipity they both joined Second Life in 2006. Coral was encouraged to check it out by her father who read about Anshe Chung’s virtual real estate empire. Tink joined with a friend, both were downloading virtual worlds and checking them out. But their experiences in-world were divergent at first. Coral spent two days on Help Island trying to figure out how to leave and only when she resorted to shouting for help in chat did someone tell her how to use Search to find a place to go. Tink ran around with her friend, wondering why there were all these people hanging about everywhere but not interacting. Ah, camping, newbies today do not know what they’re missing!

Tink made L10 by camping and felt very rich so she went shopping at some freebie joint and came away ready to dress up. “I proceeded to buy some amazing prim accessories! I then hit wear, and a box just attached to my arm. Feeling I had been ripped off, I just logged off, uninstalled, and thought that was it.”

Meanwhile, Coral found a job working as a pole dancer for a short time “until I wandered into a role play sim while exploring one day. As soon as I discovered RP I spent a number of years there and rarely ventured out as my OOC (out of character) self.”

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After Carol had blogged for a year or so, she met Dave Freeman of Just Design. He made shoes and accessories and she began working as his CSR. He talked to her about partnering on making clothing and Miss Chelsea was born. He makes the mesh and rigs it while Coral does the texturing, marketing, everything else. “He was always pretty happy for me to take creative control when it came to the name and direction of the brand. I wanted to go the kind of High Street fashion route, that’s “High Street” fashion not high “street fashion.” I don’t know if this is an English thing since I’m not sure Americans have High Streets lol, but it’s basically fashionable everyday wear...I remembered my mum telling me about when she grew up in London in the 70s and her favorite shop was called Chelsea Girl, this had always stuck with me for some reason, so I took the inspiration from that.”

Coral thinks of their customers are fashion-forward. They tend to follow the trends and make staple items with a bit of a twist. “I’ve always loved shopping and fashion in real life, before the internet was a thing I would consume fashion magazines frequently, now it’s much easier to follow brands I like and influencers or popstars on Instagram and other social media, so I get a lot of inspiration from there, as well as the constant window shopping I do online!”

After GEN-Neutral, Tink began working for Blue/berry, thanks to her friendship with Sophia Harlow [ECLIPSE Magazine December 2019] As she noted, “Much like real life, sometimes it is knowing people and connections that allow other doors to open for you. She put me in touch with Kenadeecole from Reign, and I managed N21 for a while.

Then I bent Sophia’s arm to bring back Shoetopia which she originally had with another co-owner, and we did that!”

Photograph by Coral Lacey.

After also managing Uber and working for The Epiphany, Tink decided she wanted to do her own thing where she would have full control. That is how Anthem was conceived. One key to success is knowing your weaknesses. Tink confessed, “Although I immerse myself in work, I am one of those people who sometimes lack the initial self kick to get it going, and often prefer to have someone else want to get things moving with me. Hence Mikel Monk saying yes to doing Anthem with me.” In addition to Anthem, SL Pride at Home, and Shoetopia, Tink works as a CSR for Stealthic and Miss Chelsea as well as working on Blueberry’s technical team.

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Well, I like you, I like you Even when I don’t try to Yes I do, that’s the truth I like you SL Pride at Home, a shop and hop event for the month of June, came about while Tink and Carol were chatting on a call lamenting the cancellation of Pride events in real life due to COVID-19. Being doers, they immediately went to what Tink called a “we should do something here to bring people together” brainstorm. Coral pointed out they did not want a multi-day activity-filled event that required a special build and lots of time invested since they both have plenty on their plates. Tink added, “Obviously it is also something relevant to us so that passion is there, and although we are pretty low key, we can acknowledge that not being able to go out and celebrate Pride is a bit of a downer for a lot of people.”

They went with what they knew, not trying to plan a party but organizing a simple shopping event reminiscent of first life Pride events with market stalls full of rainbow paraphernalia and other goods. The event was not created to make money for them. Designers participate for free, the only requirement being their items are relevant and represent Pride and are 99L. There is a notecard at the staging area or available in the group with a list of all the stores participating and folks can start hopping.

Tink added, “What we wanted to achieve was to fly the flag for the community, bring a little bit of color at the month Pride was originated, in an especially current dark time, bring the community together, spread a little love, awareness and ultimately be seen.” She has never seen so many rainbows in SL. Tink is quick to note that there is still work to be done.

There is a shortage of gender-neutral items and flatchested items for women. She hopes that will change in the future as people become more aware of the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community. She adds, “People are learning, and becoming more involved and aware of things. Much like referring back to how when I did GEN-neutral and the struggle it was at the time, and now seeing people create what I then sought… things come in time. And we are always moving in leaps and bounds. Rainbows are inclusive of everyone.

The positive has massively outweighed the negative. It is impossible for us to make everyone happy, but we really have tried to do something positive for the mass community. “ Page 54 | ECLIPSE June 2020

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Seven years is a long, long while Somehow you still make me smile I’d say almost most the time Here’s the way I feel And then they met and fell in love. Well, not really. Some people fall in love at first sight or first profile peek, but solid relationships are often built by friendship and time. So, it’s no surprise they describe their relationship’s beginning consistently, but differently. They were interviewed separately, yet their story is like a conversation between the two of them and needs no one to be their interlocutor.

Tink and I actually first “met” when I was working for a furniture brand years ago and she wrote to me to ask something about their cupcake machine lol. I’m an avid profile reader so I had a look at hers and from there I followed her on Flickr. I always really loved her style and avatar, and the way her pictures told stories.

I confess that I had a very innocent crush on her pretty much from that first conversation! After that, she began to work for a clothing store and some events so we were pretty much running in the same circles. She would message me from time to time to invite me to an event or about something work-related, but apart from that and some pleasantries on social media we didn’t interact at all for a few years.

I once upon a time followed Coral on Flickr back when she was a blogger. And really, aside from that I only knew her through various work things that we were both involved in. The only times we ever spoke were work-related, and in turn short and to the point. She reached out a couple of times, where we had small conversations.

And then sent me some underwear she had just made, so maybe that was the start of something beautiful, lol.

When I found myself single a couple of years later and after months of acting like a school girl giggling to my friends about Tink being my crush, I finally plucked up the courage to message her. I would like to point out that I DO NOT do the whole “sliding into DMs” thing, but since we had some common ground to chit chat about (football, England were doing really well in the World Cup) I admit that I reached out to her first. We talked here and there for a few weeks and it gradually turned into a daily thing after a couple of months and we had begun to hang out in-world. It was a genuine friendship with no expectations from either of us, even though I had a huge crush by now, I never told her!

We were really just social friends for the most part. Until she slipped into my DMs one day mentioning a football game that had just finished as it was the World cup, and our team England had just finished playing. From then on we would just natter here and there, pretty sure she was playing it cool for the most part though.

Until it became a daily thing, and our conversations became longer and longer.

I would talk to my friends about it and I swear they were too excited for me as they had known I’d liked her forever and I had to be the one to calm them down!

I remember saying that I didn’t care if it didn’t go anywhere because I just really enjoyed the vibe we had together even as friends. I had absolutely no idea if she liked me “like that” because she is such a terrible flirt, I just took all our teasing and joking together as friendly banter. Eventually, she told me that she liked me, right before she took off traveling for three months! When she came back we met up pretty quickly in RL and had a blast spending NYE together.

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Coral was completely unexpected. I am a pretty quiet, unsocial person, and rarely branch out to make friends, let alone anything else. So I guess given I cared to get to know her, and speak to her as much as I was finding myself doing, spoke volumes. She really jumped over a pretty high wall I had built up. Timing isn’t always my forte, so I told her I liked her the day before I left the country for 3 months. Lol

call abruptly ended thanks to her rubbish internet. I am telling you. The timing of things sucks for us, lol.

I don’t think there was a defining moment where I knew she was my person, since our getting together was a natural progression, but I am reminded it in small things she does every day. She is the most thoughtful person I’ve ever met and goes out of her way to help and encourage me as much as she can. We both have the same core values, and just work really well together as a team. I think that she is someone I can really grow with and I’ve never had that before, nor a relationship before where I had unconditional support. I feel incredibly lucky to have found her.

Coral is my little bit of calm. She is fiercely supportive, thoughtful, and loving. She shows love in a way that I didn’t really know existed. She is sure to always build up, as well as roast me.

I probably realized she was my person when she told me something filthy in one of our early ‘getting to know one another’ conversations. I’d love to say I am kidding.

But alas, I’m not. Before she dumps me based on that comment, let me re-answer, properly. Whilst I was away on my trip, she would send me little messages throughout my days, via my Instagram. The sort that just made you feel like she genuinely gave a shit. I felt we flitted around one another innocently for a pretty long while. Mostly due to me not wanting to get attached, down to my own concerns and reasons.

She is just that great though, that it was inevitable I’d fall for her, pretty hard.

I remember the first time we finally voiced, and she was the shyest and sweet little thing that it instantly made me melt.

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Coral is a very grounded person, she is passionate about everything she does.

From getting to know her, and seeing how hard she loves, how she makes me feel, the effort she constantly puts in, all in all, just ticked all of my boxes.

Ultimately, I think we just gel really well. For what the other lacks, the other is there to fill. We make a pretty good team.

I don’t know if there was a specific moment I felt she was my person. She just is.

At the moment we are taking each day as it comes and never looking more than a few months ahead. The pandemic threw a rather large spanner in the works for our plans this year as we are currently longdistance and travel has of course been impossible. So for the short term future, we are waiting to see how that pans out over the next few months and long term who knows. We are both realists and grown enough not to get carried away but I don’t have any doubt we will be together.

In regards to our future. Firstly, whenever COVID-19 makes it possible, we will be mostly looking to spend some quality time with one another in RL. Although that might not be until 2021 at this rate, making this our first New Year’s Eve we won’t be spending together having spent the last two together since knowing one another.

But hopefully then looking to book a holiday seeing as our plans for one in May were dashed!

Photograph by Tink Hax.

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I like you, I just like you Even when I don’t try to Yes I do, that’s the truth I like you ECLIPSE Magazine asked Coral and Tink to answer the Enneagram Personality Quiz, not because it’s scientific or anything but it is short and doesn’t demand your email to get results. We also asked them to describe themselves. Readers can decide for themselves if the quiz got it right or was pure rubbish.

According to the quiz, Tink is a Challenger, Type Eight.

Headstrong, confident, with little self-doubt. Challengers trust their instincts. They want control of the world around them which makes people think they are overbearing. They tend to close themselves off from the world and resort to angry outbursts when aggravated. According to Tink, she is a quiet, reclusive person, though she is quick to point out Coral disagrees. She likes to live quietly and keep herself to herself, but she would not call herself an introvert. She’s fond of watching television, loves documentaries, particularly the true-crime stories. She loves horror flicks, but is very catholic in her tastes, enjoying foreign and indie films and even slapstick comedies. She likes sports and played field hockey in school. “I do enjoy watching sports though, especially rugby, football and you’ll usually see me glued to the screen during the Olympics/ Commonwealth games.” How she sees herself in the world is as “a pretty grounded, stubborn, but loyal, hard worker who is sometimes misunderstood, but always means well.”

For Tink, it is important to make every moment matter. Like most people when she was younger she thought she had plenty of time but now she sees time flying past. She has a sensible, no-nonsense approach, “Keep your head up and work hard. Not everyone is going to have the same work ethic and attitude as you, but that doesn’t mean something is wrong with you, or that you aren’t doing something right. Not feeling appreciated just outright sucks. But that is life.” She wishes people would choose kindness when they can. “We don’t have to like one another. But it matters to me, and I wish it did everyone else, to not give a damn about people’s religion, race, ability, or sexuality. Just be kind to one another. The world is a damn mess right now. We can do without the trolls and hate from people hiding behind their PCs anonymously spewing hate in-world.”

Her values are congruent in first and Second Life: creativity, perfection, reliability, and integrity. What she seeks in others are loyalty and authenticity, just like Coral.

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Coral’s Enneagram type is Nine, a Peacemaker.

According to the quiz, she is amiable, openminded, and laid back. She tries to avoid conflict and looks for creative ways to make everyone happy when there is a conflict. This means she might be complacent and some people might say she’s a pushover. Well, that’s the quiz. What does Coral say? She says she is very introverted in both first and Second Life, the one standing in the corner. “I do worry that this gives people the wrong impression of me but the truth is I’m just horrendously shy.

I’m quiet but observant and pretty passionate about everything I do. If I’m going to put myself to a task, I want to do it well with a constant aim to improve. I don’t like resting on my laurels.”

Coral values authenticity and loyalty with those she holds close—”quality over quantity when it comes to my friends.” She thinks she is good at reading people but like everyone has been burned because anonymity makes it easy for people to lie and misrepresent themselves. “I don’t see the point in being something other than yourself because why would you care for people to like you for something that you are not?”

She is similar in her first and Second Life in loving to shop for makeup, clothing, home decor, and gifts for friends and family. “I’m also a bit of a makeup collector and can play with it for hours. “ Both Tink and Coral have a creative streak.

Tink has a Fine Art degree and specialized in printmaking. She has not used it as much as she would like to. “However, as of recently I am getting my groove back and am back enjoying doodling and doing illustrations when I get the time too!” Coral also wants to make more time for creative efforts such as painting and upcycling furniture. “I really struggle to maintain a decent work/life balance, if I ever figure that out then I will definitely spend more time being creative in the real world and not just SL.” Page 62 | ECLIPSE June 2020

Photograph by Tink Hax.

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There way too many love songs And I think they’ve got it all wrong ‘Cause life is not the mountain tops It’s the walking in between And I like you walking next to me Second Life has had an effect on both their lives. Both Tink and Coral make their living in Second Life. For Coral, the effects have been most dramatic, “There are the obvious ways like being the reason I moved to a different country ten years ago, and of course starting Miss Chelsea which now provides me with a reallife income. I also feel like I wouldn’t be the person I am today if I hadn’t met people from all walks of life, all over the world who opened my mind to new perspectives.” For Tink, the relationships she has formed are the most profound. “I wouldn’t have met Coral, nor my closest friends if it were not for SL. If I weren’t on SL I would be just working a ‘regular job’, or still in my most recent job, I had prior to leaving, as an Immigration officer before making SL my main income. Not to say that working here hasn’t changed my life, because of course, it has. Who doesn’t want to work at home in their PJs?” Coral sees Miss Chelsea as her breakthrough in Second Life, “Starting Miss Chelsea changed my life in a dramatic way, it has been my full-time job for a few years now and I will be forever grateful to Dave for giving me the opportunity to work with him and to our customers who enjoy our creations.” Tink understands it as changing her work, but not changing her. “The only way I feel SL has really changed my life is the friendships and relationships I have made here. Those work experiences have all been great in their own ways, also a learning curve in regards to some. So I have for sure learned things I wouldn’t have if it weren’t for SL. On a side note, it has been an amazing creative outlet for me too.”

Both Tink and Coral have made close friends in Second Life.

Coral’s closest friends are Harper Nova one of the owners of Kalopsia, and Lundy of Hive. “I have known Harper for about eight years now. We met through a mutual friend at the time and hit it off immediately. We were both just starting to blog and take pictures so we bonded over that and the rest is history! I met Lundy on Plurk about five years ago and without whom I would never have gotten my Plurk karma as high as it was if it wasn’t for our 500 response private plurks we’d have going daily. Not only are they amazing creators too but both these women are the light in my SL and very real RL confidantes too. I would trust them with anything and everything.”

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Tink’s closest Second Life friends seldom long in any longer, but the friendships were formed in SL. “Rowenne was on her teen avatar, and my niece. We just got on really, really well. I am not much of a roleplayer in Second Life but my friend was trying out the family thing, and I ended up apparently getting a niece, lol. She eventually started to be on her main adult avi, and we just were friends from the get-go and hanging out a lot more! Tea, I met her on her original account, Sabella, through mutuals. She is just so wacky and out there, and pretty forward. She just kept writing me, at first, and for a minute I was like, ‘who the hell is this irritating person?’ Needless to say, she still annoys me to this day. But that is our friendship and what it is built on, haha. She means the world to me. They both do.”

They remain in each other’s real lives, keeping tabs on each other and supporting each other through good times and hard times. “They both were there for me through a pretty dark episode, and are simply golden. Both are on the opposite sides of the world to me, and although we might not speak as much as we once did, simply due to ‘life’, I know they are always there. And vice versa.”

For both of them, Second Life has been more about work than play.

Coral spends eight to twelve hours a day with nary a day off. Tink is not sure she would stay in Second Life without the work. For her, the shift to mesh has been difficult since it was much harder to find clothing and shapes that suited her flat-chest preference. But her work and her friendships are keeping her in-world. For Carol, her relationship with Tink encourages her to stay in-world after her work hours. “Being creative as a full-time job leaves me with no real fuel for fun creative outlets in-world, which was the whole basis of my SL before, whether it was writing or blogging. I will take the odd picture now and then and still find editing them to be fun and relaxing, but the whole setting up a scene and getting the perfect pose can feel like a drain” It sounds like not only are they lucky to have found each other, those of us in Second Life who enjoy Miss Chelsea and the shopping events are lucky, too.

And what do the Enneagrams have to say about ChallengerPeacemaker relationships? Who cares? We don’t need a test to see all good things.

Well I like you, I like you Even when I don’t try to Yes I do, that’s the truth I like you, yeah, yeah Even when I don’t try to I still like you “I Like You” by Ben Rector Page 66 | ECLIPSE June 2020

Photograph by Coral Lacey.

Coral Lacey Tinker Hax Flickr - Facebook - Instagram Flickr - Facebook - Instagram Flickr Group - Marketplace Anthem: Website - Facebook - Instagram SL Pride At Home: Facebook - Instagram ECLIPSE June 2020 | Page 67

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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.

Second

Missing pride this year? Us too and many others tha pride events happening around the grid which br with a stage and even a parade float, it may no Page 74 | ECLIPSE June 2020

d Pride

at play in this virtual realm with us. There are many rings us to Second Pride. This neat sim is complete ot be the same but it might be the second best.

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Kintsugi; Spirited Beyo

Take a step into the whimsical Kintsugi, everywh animal lover you will be pleasantly surprised by dragons it seem Page 76 | ECLIPSE June 2020

ond “Made with Care�

here you turn beauty surrounds you. If you are an y animals with each turn you take from foxes to ms to have it all.

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The Empire of D

If you’re a book lover like myself, I have a treat fo by book lovers. You could easily bring your favori enjoy the scenery as you read. Have nothing to re and get inspired to re Page 78 | ECLIPSE June 2020

Dreaming Books

or you. Step into a magical world made of books ite book with you and explore the meadows and ead? Maybe come explore the quaint little square ead something new.

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F.E.A.R - Face Every

Need a quiet place to escape from a hectic day? E the name frighten you. It simply stands for “Face e filled with tons of places to sit Page 80 | ECLIPSE June 2020

ything and Recover

Escape to the beautiful design of F.E.A.R, don’t let everything and recover� and trust me this place is t and recover from a busy day.

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Tralala’s Diner - P

This diner isn’t your typical place to stop and hav the time era post apocalypse, and you just never k don’t eat the meat and don’t stare at people you visit make sure that you pack the essenti Page 82 | ECLIPSE June 2020

Post Apocalypse

ve a cup of coffee with some pancakes. It’s set in know what you might come across. Rumor has it, don’t know in the eye too long. If you’re going to ials, otherwise you won’t find them here.

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the proust spotli

photography

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 Maria. She shares, “Well, about me; one thing is how much happy I am when able to do the things I love. I just wanna continue doing what I like while having good moments with my friends. Here, it is a lil world where we can enjoy and let our imagination fly.”

ght

y by maria.

What is your ideal of perfect happiness?

Honestly I think happiness starts in the moment when we love ourselves, that is the first step to be happy and of course be surrounded by your loved ones. I would say that is my perfect happiness and as well fulfilling my dreams after putting so much effort in them.

What you consider the most overrated virtue?

I think is love... We need love in our lives of course, but love can hurt so much when is not true. Love can make us happy but also very unhappy. It depends a lot on the kind of love others give us, and I think its easy to be disappointed when what we receive is not the way we expect.

Which word or phrases do you most overuse?

“Thank You” I am always grateful to people. Even if it is for something that may seem small or insignificant to others, it will always be something that makes me feel grateful.

What do you most value in your friends?

Trust... We can know many people and call them friends.

But the real friends are the ones you can trust. If there is trust, you can always be yourself.

If you where to die and come back as person or a thing what would it be?

I would love to be back as a star in the sky. Why? Because when I’m looking at the stars is sooo beautiful and so infinite. They bring light in the dark and everyone loves to see the stars.

What is your most marked characteristic?

I can say is the perseverance, I never give up when I really want something. I always try to do my best in everything in my life so I don’t regret later.

Connect with Maria on her Flickr, Blog and Facebook.

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WORLD OF ROLEPLA

photography by Harley Heartsong. written by TAYLO

Second Life is rich in roleplay opportunities, and ECLIPSE Magazine rotates between their “SL Fiction” and “World of Roleplay” feature to showcase this.

Join us as we explore the new magical roleplay community: Fledge Rock and Grindelbane Academy.

AY

OR WASSEP.

What makes Second Life™ special and sets it apart from available for creativity. Linden Lab created a place for t just that.

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m other social networking games is the potential those who wish to fulfill whimsy and adventure to do

end� with our friends. We traversed invisible lava fields tured into the adjacent woods in the backyard and there.

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The use of our imagination is only limited to those who do not try. I remember an occasion in my childhood where a neighborhood friend of mine actually threw a tantrum because he claimed he, “couldn’t use his imagination.” That notion stuck with me and reminded me to never let myself stand in the way of creativity.

A way that whimsical ideal translates into Second Life would be the everpopular roleplaying rims found all over the grid. From sims designed to enhance the pleasures of humans, like Gorean-style sims to the life or death scenarios created in post-apocalyptic sims from the culturally-aware sim based in a historical era to the supernaturally-enchanted sim based on favorite pop cultural phenomenons, the variety is astonishing.

Whatever avenue of role-playing someone might explore, they all hold dear the idea that roleplaying is to express a story. It allows them to escape into a story and enjoy being someone else for awhile. A sim that is just starting to write it’s own story us Fledge Rock and Grindelbane Academy; co-owned by Harley Heartsong. I was able to dive deep into her mind and find out where my port key might be hiding…

To give a little context of who Harley is, let’s catch you up on her background. In her real life, Harley told me she has done quite a bit of roleplaying via Tumblr™ for about seven years. Roleplaying as a couple DC™ characters along with canon characters and OC (original characters).

In Second Life, she’s been an avid role-player for over eight years now. She hasrole-played in various sims,starting out on a family-oriented sim as a kid. But as the time went by, she started to want more creativity out of her roleplaying experience.

After trying her hand at a few different places, she found herself wanting to expand on an aspect of one of her roleplaying character’s lives. During the off-season for a roleplaying sim, people will take their character to other sims to expand and create new stories and plots to continue the story when normal roleplaying sessions are not currently running.

“Grindelbane was originally meant to be a small school for Jorgia [her character] to attend along with some friends, but as I built it up, the idea continued to grow until my friend and now co-owner/admin suggested we take my little idea and grow it bigger.”

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Collectively, they saw a hole in the Second Life roleplaying community they knew they could fill with what they had cooking up in their brains.

A modern Wizarding World-themed sim that wasn’t creating obstacles for its role-players to have to navigate though. They wanted to build a playground for role-players to write their stories, where each person feels comfortable and safe to create whatever story they can dream up.

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Now, this might all sound great, but what are these locations, Fledge Rock?

Grindelbane Academy? What makes them so special? For some context, the world in which Fledge Rock and Grindelbane Academy is set in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Harley wanted to make it clear that Fledge Rock + Grindelbane Academy is canon in the sense that canon characters and canon animals are mentioned. So, if you’re hoping to hear stories of Newt Scammander or Harry Potter – you might just check out the sim.

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Let’s get started with Fledge Rock. This locale is set in a coastal paradise, hidden during the Global Wizarding War in the 1940s. With picturesque sunsets, magical ponds with the echoing of sirens and enchanted forests, Fledge Rock is home to some, but it’s not without its own mysteries and dangerous visitors.

Grindelbane Academy is a secretive school founded in the 1940s by the Ministry with the goal of training talented young witches and wizards as potential Hit Wizards and Aurors against the rise of Gellert Grindelwald.

Since then, the Academy has produced dozens of famous and infamous wizards and witches.

What might be interesting to some would be the caliber of the students that attend Grindelbane. Harley mentioned that at some other Wizarding Worldthemed roleplaying sims, there might be caps or limits on the number of abilities or extraordinary talents a student can have. With Fledge Rock + Grindelbane Academy, they went with the concept of doing the opposite.

“Almost the entire student body of Grindelbane Academy has some sort of ability or special talent with subjects like Transfiguration, Brewing, etc.”

– Harley Heartsong What it seems to boil down too is that Fledge Rock and Grindelbane Academy is creating a space that will allow more freedom for character creation. To truly allow a role-player to have their say in how their character is sculpted without needing limitations other roleplaying sims might face.

Now, all of this couldn’t have been done without the talents of some of Harley’s closest friends. She, along with Nikko and Peachy Puddles make up the administration team for their sim. They worked together to created the lore, plots, social media websites and the sim itself. Mozelle Kaitey, also known as Luna, helped Harley with the construction of Grindelbane Academy. Moreover, she is an amazing Scripter who is basically making an all-in-one roleplaying tool that players will use during their time on the sim.

Now, if this has piqued your interest in the slightest you might wanted to look to their website. Explore what they are offering and see if this is a place you might like to call home. Errm, I mean your higher future alma mater.

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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 our inaugural piece, Wicca delves into the world of steampunk with fashion and inspiring places to visit.

ca merlin.

The first known appearance of the term Steampunk was in 1987, but it now retroactively refers to many works of fiction created as far back as the 1950s or earlier. Steampunk is a retro-futuristic sub-genre of science-fiction or science fantasy that incorporates technology and aesthetic designs inspired by 19thcentury industrial, steam-powered machinery. Despite it being often associated with the cyberpunk genre, it can also include other elements from areas of fantasy, horror, historical fiction, alternate history, or other branches of speculative fiction, and some works are often set in an alternative version of 19th century Victorian or the Wild West, or in a futuristic time where steam power or something that is similar to steam power is mainstream.

Its most recognizable features include anachronistic technologies or retrofuturistic inventions that could be imagined by people in history. Such technologies may include fictional machines such as those found in the works of H. G. Wells and Jules Verne, or contain an alternative style of the history with various technologies, such as steam cannons, lighter-than-air airships, analog computers, or digital mechanical computers such as Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine. Steampunk can also refer to any of the artistic styles, fashion, or subcultures that have developed from the aesthetics of Steampunk fiction, Victorian-era fiction, art nouveau design, and films from the mid-20th century.

Various modern everyday objects have been created or modified by various artisans into a pseudo-Victorian mechanical “Steampunk� style. A number of visual and musical artists incorporate the Steampunk aesthetic into their work.

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Visit Port Page 122 | ECLIPSE June 2020

Babbage.

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ver & Zaun.

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Visit Toxia/ Page 126 | ECLIPSE June 2020

/New Toxia.

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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 visits the Sisse Singh Art Gallery.

tive

idge uriza.

I have always been one of those people who love art. I don’t have a particular medium or style I’m more particular to, I simply love to see how people express themselves. I’m looking for their joy, their pain, their love and loss in their work. I’m always intrigued at the story their work tells regardless of what the story is.

Sisse Singh Art Gallery appealed to me the moment I landed there. A garden respite, fun and floral, swirling around welcoming me to come inside and explore. The artist notes at the entrance that the pieces inside are recreations of her real-world art.

I rather love when the real world comes to visit us on the grid.

Inside I found a gallery featuring a wealth of watercolor (her preferred medium) and I was delightfully surprised. She’s a very talented artist who brings to the table artwork that is both accessible and beautiful. Any number I coveted as I walked piece to piece. She must have an amazing garden or greenhouse nearby or a memory that keeps them well. Her use of color engages you while imparting a sense of comfort and familiarity.

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As you travel further in the gallery you’ll find a nod here or there to some of the masters, Picasso perhaps here, Renoir perhaps there. The divergence of style is not without merit though, when she stretches her wings to embrace other styles she truly shows you her range and that despite being a master of the watercolor floral her toolbox is far wider than that.

Continuing on through the gallery you’ll find a hallway and exhibits from other artists.

I was intrigued by the departure from her style so suddenly but I appreciate that she brings other artists to her space to feature their work. The land description says that this collection is a group of Beaumont’s favorite artists. EdwardIV Beaumont is Sisse’s partner in-world and his collection of offerings to display is diverse. You’ll find abstracts, deeper colors, a harsher clash of iconography and considerations for thoughts that aren’t as relaxing and calm but the work is no less intriguing. They offered me a notecard when I reached the second floor of the gallery which explained their curation process as well as where you can find the artists’ work if you are interested and the landmark. I thought that was a very nice touch.

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Exiting the exhibits of the guest artists you return to the pastoral setting of beautiful watercolors that seem to be her love. She features florals in beautiful form, foggy landscapes of fairy imagining as well as still life, subtly intriguing me with its subjects and colors.

Throughout the gallery are patrons quietly enjoying the art as well, captivated and frozen by the beauty around them. I admit I apologized to one before I realized it was not an actual person. I found that small touch to be endearing. I’m not alone wandering the grid in search of art but am instead just one of many enjoying what has been curated for my viewing and purchasing pleasure.

As you exit the second floor you’ll leave through a garden featuring some sculpture and more vignettes. You’ll end your walk viewing more artwork by Sisse and strolling through the gardens until they come to their end.

There is a bounce-house as you are nearing the exit. I cannot recommend it enough.

Sisse Singh gallery was a delightful surprise in my most recent foray in art on the grid.

If you enjoy watercolors and a fun garden stroll it is not to be missed.

Visit Sisse Singh Art Gallery in-world.

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Voices from the g

Voices From the Grid is a monthly survey of opinions and ideas of Second Life® residents on the salient issues of the day.

For this issue, ECLIPSE Magazine we asked residents to share “How are you celebrating PRIDE this year? ”

grid

Photograph provided by Enzo Valentini.

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enzo valentini

E

nzo Valentini [enzovalentini] joined SL in 2019, after a few months of playing, he got better at taking pictures when he got the opportunity to blog for his first Varsity store, thus receiving some invitations and being accepted by some stores, and becoming a blogger. This year he started his own store [Bar.Code] that focuses on making low priced items for beginners in SL such as shapes, tattoos, and accessories. In just over a year, he has earned 665 followers on Flickr.

This year was a special year for me because I found myself trans and gay, and I feel proud because I am really part of a very small minority within the LGBT public, within second life I have several ideas for products for my store with my collection of pride glasses with all the LGBT flags, tattoos and new photos for my Flickr.

Check out his Flickr and Marketplace.

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Photograph provided by Alex Bailey Blowpop.

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alex bailey blowpop

A

lex Bailey Blowpop [AstaraBonnibelle.Resident] originally started Second Life in 2008, but after a long hiatus, they returned to Second Life in 2017 on a new account. Its been a strange and crazy journey for Alex, he was just exploring this new mesh world and not long after got into blogging. It was this blogging journey that started Alex onto a strange journey in discovering his gender identity and becoming the Alex everyone sees today. It was also in his first 6 months of his return to Second Life that he was in need of some rainbow freckles and couldn’t find any. So he decided to make his own and that is when his store brand Astara was born! Alex likes to try and promote stores that make male and female items on his blog, as well as a focus on femboy friendly stores and stores that rig for the V-Tech chest mod. With his store, he hopes to learn how to make clothing and be one of those amazing brands that make items with male and female versions.

In real life, I won’t really be doing much. I live in a super rural area in Scotland and there are no celebrations or parades or anything like, which is fine really because I am super introverted and don’t really go anywhere anyway haha. As for Second Life, I am super excited for pride this year! There are multiple events going on and I want to go to as many as I can, to party and have fun, and be in a safe space to wear whatever I want and not be looked at like I am strange. There are also a bunch of sales and promotions going on right now for Pride and I have spent a lot of Linden already and its only June 4th!

I am also so thrilled to be a sponsor for the Pride Festival SL this year which is a charity event running for five days from June 24 to June 28. It is a festival to celebrate the community and will have lots of parties as well as a fashion show, outfit contests, and an art gallery. My store will be there as well as many other fantastic stores from Second Life with free gifts for everyone. The event is officially sponsored by Arcigay and all proceeds go this amazing charity. I really cannot wait for the fun to kick off and I am so honoured to be a sponsor this year.

As well as all the fun I want to spread as much rainbow joy as I can this month with my blog. The world is a horrifically dark place right with so much heartache and injustice in the current climate and that has spurred me on to try and spend as much happiness as possible with all the rainbows and glitter I can find! I also have plans to do pictures with friends too to help show off other facets of the community such as Polysexual and Pansexual pride since that’s where I lie on the spectrum.

And if you didn’t think I was going to be busy enough there will be pride gifts for The Stay At Home Club as well, some of which I will be working on and there will be a Limited Edition Pride 2020 you can pick up! With all the chaos in the world right now this club was just a fun little fun thing Freya (owner of Hilted), Zac Remix (owner of Rumah Kita) and I put together in March during lockdown to be a distraction from the world and spread some free love. So look out for all the pride related goodies over there as well, and remember: we will get through this, we can make it through this, and together we are strong!

Check out his Flickr and Blog.

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Photograph provided by Misty Obsidian.

misty obsidian

M

isty Obsidian [Midnightmistxx] joined SecondLife in 2015, with a passion already for photography in real life it came naturally to veer towards photography in this new virtual world. Even as a default avatar and with minimal inventory she would take photos any chance she got. Soon she met other avatars who would introduce her to the world of mesh and by 2016 she started taking profile photos for other avatars and set up her mini studio.

In 2017 she set up her first blog, and started supporting other brands and their creations whilst also opening a small pose store called Kiss Me Poses which later rebranded to HERA. She has been blogging and creating poses ever since.

Amidst the coronavirus chaos and all the local festivals and parades being canceled in real life, I am forced to celebrate pride month from the comfort of my own home this year within Second Life.

I will continue to support my fellow LGBT+ community which includes my family and some of my close friends as an ally, educating others and raising awareness on the importance of such issues the LGBT+ community faces. Some examples include equal rights, discrimination, physical or sexual assault, depression, and suicide.

As a creator and blogger within SecondLife, I have the advantage of being able to reach a large number of people within the community. Because of this, I have decided to use my social media platforms in a manner that will always support the LGBT+ community. I am not afraid to stand up for what I believe in and continue to advocate for those issues.

Teaching my children love, acceptance, and the history and importance of pride month. I hope everyone stays safe this year following social distancing during pride but continues to spread awareness whenever and wherever they can and to speak out when you see discrimination or hate whether you are straight or part of the LGBT+ community.

Happy Pride!

Check out her Flickr, Blog and HERA on Flickr, Marketplace & Facebook.

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Photograph provided by Jullie.

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jullie

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ullie [Jullie Vandeperck] joined SL in 2006. She has owned My SL Fashion World Blog since 2014. Taking photos, going to events and shopping sprees are her favorite hobbies. You can check her photos on her flickr and blog.

I am celebrating PRIDE this year staying home because of the COVID 19 quarantine and mainly doing what we should do: respecting each other!

I am hanging out in Second Life with my LGBTQ family and friends going in events and places who support this cause. Second Life is a great place to Celebrate Pride virtually around the world! I am trying to make my photos more colorful too, using backdrops and clothes with the theme to show the world how important is the PRIDE month and we all have to support this not only in June but every month of the year!

I believe that for a better world we must be respectful and affectionate in looking at others. In my opinion, we must fight for a world without any kind of prejudice regardless of your sexual orientation, religion, or race.

Always remember: LOVE KNOWS NO GENDER, respect the others for a better world! Y Check out her Flickr, Blog and Facebook.

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Photograph provided by Freddy Mongrain.

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freddy mongrain

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reddy Mongrain joined Second Life in March 2009. He immediately wanted to bring his real life passion for fashion into Second Life. He studied modeling, passing the final exam of both “Jen School & Service” and “M & M in World Academy Model Agency” with honors. For a year he has embarked on a new career, that of a blogger, finding a significant number of followers who adore his style. He collaborates with numerous shops that are known fashion for Second Life such as Boys to the Bone, Cheerno, Lob, Gild, Varsity, Taox Tattoo and many others. The phrase that is repeated every day in both RL and SL is to never stop and do everything with passion and dedication.

This is a special year for Pride, but it is also a special year for the whole world. We are far away from each other and we continue to be because of the coronavirus, but love is what unites us. This love that I perceived both in Second Life and in Real Life. So even if there will be no demonstrations, our pride will still be strong because this love that I have perceived unites all Gay, Lesbian, Transgender, Bisexual, and Heterosexual, we must understand that we are all equal and live in peace without discrimination for anyone.

This is what I will do in this period of Pride both in real life and in Second Life to communicate love more than I do throughout the year. Fortunately I have RL family and friends who have always welcomed my being born gay and for this I have to thank God. I know that many have been less fortunate than me, for this I take the opportunity to send a message to all those who feel alone, I am here contact me when you want to speak. I am always there for everyone.

Everyday look in the mirror and think, I chose to be the best part of me because it’s beautiful, this is the best part of what makes me feel free. I love you all and thank you for being all so wonderful and unique, color the world with love.

Check out his Flickr.

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catlo cyberstar

C

atlo Cyberstar has been in SL since 2008. He makes poses that he sells under the Cronos Poses brand. He also loves to take pictures that he features on Flickr.

This year I will celebrate the pride with my husband and family here in SL. Due the problems with COVID-19 we are preparing a big party at my mom’s sim with a dj, thematic decorations, and even a float where we are going to set up a big stage with poses made by me.

In other circumstances, I would be celebrating the pride surrounded by my friends in my RL and attending the demonstration as every other year.

Here, in my country, the main day of the big party is always on my birthday, so I take this opportunity to celebrate both. This year, I will be eating the cake at home watching the talks and advances that the LGTBI + community have achieved this 2019/20 via streaming. LGTBI + pride month is not just an annual party, it is the vindication of a group that just wants to love like the rest of the people.

Check out his store Flickr, in-world location and personal Flickr.

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THE wayfarer...

photography by minn

“The Wayfarer” is a monthly feature showcasing some of the most aesthetic places in Second Life®.

His feet landed upon broken stone, while the ‘baa’ing’ of nearby sheep rang in his ears. Blinking his eyes quickly, the first thing he noticed was greenery, even as he tread softly on the overgrown path. Winding down a hill, he took the fragmented steps two at a time — eager to see where it led. There was a small beach with patches of water and seemingly forgotten homes. The smell of the ocean drew him in, as did the sound of the ebb and flow of the tides, and it was at this very moment he took a deep breath. And the feeling of peace and solitude he so often sought, he found.

nie dethly.

Immerse yourself in Frogmore.

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artist highlight

Written by taylor wassep. photography 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, TJ O. Joubert.

or wassep.

Imagine you are a young child, center stage at the pulpit—the raised lectern preachers stand behind while delivering their sermons. Often, small groups of performers will also stand behind the pulpit when they sing. This was part of TJ O. Joubert youthful experience. Before she knew it, she was holding a microphone. At first alone, but as she grew up; she was joined by her three younger sisters.

Miss. Joubert has deep gospel roots that infuse her singing style.Her father introduced her to jazz when she was young. More specifically, he directed her to Ms. Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, and Frank Sinatra. This Handful of legendary singers influenced what TJ O. Joubert’s singing style would become.

Over the years, in real life, TJ O. Joubert has found herself working as a professional singer/ actor in Los Angeles. She has lent her voice to projects like the live action version of The Lion King, Gnomeo and Juliet and Bad Boyz for Life.

In addition to media productions, TJ O. Joubert has also done background vocals for Anita Baker, Chaka Khan and Jennifer Hudson. In the past, she has worked with Lalah Hathaway, Mary J. Blige, Christina Aguilera, and many others.

One of her most meaningful performances to date has to be when she sang backup for The Queen of Soul herself, the one and only, Ms. Aretha Franklin. This was during the BET Honors while honoring the geat Nelson Mandela. She was able to shake Aretha’s hand and witness her genius first hand. TJ O. Joubert was able to stand in for her at the rehearsals, singing lead for a particularly important song, composed by Aretha’s friend Sam Cooke, “A Change Is Gonna Come.” What made this moment for TJ O. Joubert even more emotional was when, several years later, she was asked to demo, “A Change is Gonna Come” for the National Geographic “Genius: Aretha” series.

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“Revisiting that song several years later, during this tumultuous time in history, has been especially poignant but it’s also been very soothing, somehow.” – TJ O. Joubert As far as her endeavors in Second Life, TJ O. Joubert has curated a laundry list of songs that she performs for her audiences. It’s her absolutely favorite part of performing in SL. Singing random songs that she has learned over the years and adding them to her setlists and seeing how it all resonates with people brings her joy.

TJ O. Joubert suggests to anyone who might want to start a music career in Second Life – HAVE FUN just like she did. You have to get your feet wet by doing something easy at first. Karaoke would be a great first step. You should find songs that work for you and learn which ones don’t. As time goes by, you can start to build a stage presence and feel more comfortable putting yourself out there like you are. Slowly, but surely, you can build up a fan base. But, it all boils down to have fun and creating moments for yourself and the people who support you.

Now, if you would like to schedule TJ O. Joubert for any of your upcoming events all you need to do is contact her directly. If you would like to support this wonderful artist, you could check out her current single, “Skylark,” on her compilation album titled, “The Black & White Sessions” – available on all digital music retailer sites.

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the way you inspi

photography by novaleigh freng. written by novale

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 Marqs DeSade, and he shares with us why he is inspired by Nene Chrome. If you would like to nominate someone for our upcoming piece, please fill out this form.

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ECLIPSE Magazine’s newest feature, The Way You Inspire, is meant to highlight the lives of Second Life residents who have made a profound impact on those around them. Each month, residents can nominate the person who inspires them the most to have a small moment in the spotlight. This month, we are featuring the lovely Nene Chrome.

Nene has been a Second Life resident for nearly eleven-and-a-half years. In that time, she’s had many experiences, worn several different metaphorical hats, and—of course—impacted the lives of many other residents.

To learn more about Nene, ECLIPSE spoke with Second Life musician Marqs DeSade (marqsdesade Resident).

“Her intelligence, her humility, her sense of what was important… These were the qualities that captured my attention early on in our getting to know one another.”

Marqs and Nene have known one another for about seven years. They first met in the summer of 2013, when Marqs took over an administrative position on a sim. Nene was sent to his office to deliver a gift, and the two struck up a conversation. Their first interaction inspired Marqs to reach out to Nene again. The pair shared many late night conversations as they got to know one another.

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“We just talked [...] and those conversations are still some of my most prized memories.”

The relationship born from those early conversations is still as strong and beautiful as it ever was, but of course, there’s much more to Nene’s story. While Marqs has composed songs about Nene and their relationship together, she has so many qualities that endear her not only to him, but to others.

Nene, he admits, is a truly remarkable person.

She is dedicated, deeply empathic, loyal to her friends and loved ones, and has a giving nature that is unmatched. She seeks to offer love and comfort to those she cares about, and is always willing to help a friend. She wants to make others’ lives happier and easier, even though she has her own struggles to tackle.

“She is very giving, and will take time to help others, give of her time, her resources, and her energy, even when her time, resources and energy are low. She is the kind of friend everyone wishes they could have.”

Nene initially joined Second Life with long-term friend Pilar Raynier. In her time in Second Life, Nene has been a club owner, a decorator, and a performer, among other things. Today, she is part-owner of a community sim that she works tirelessly to make a welcoming environment for all who visit and call it home. She serves as a creator, a decorator, a community liaison, and a friend to those that need her. Apart from that role, Nene still loves to create, and channels that extra energy into the art of dance in Second Life and other artistic pursuits such as poetry.

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“Creatively, she is a visionary. When she is creating something, she wants it to express a thought, a feeling, an emotion... and meticulously plans every detail to that end. The results are often breathtaking, touching, and deeply emotional.”

When Nene isn’t working or chasing her artistic pursuits, she can often be found cheering at one of Marqs’ shows or helping a friend. She’s almost always doing something, either for the community she loves, the man she cherishes, or the friends she adores.

“I think one of her greatest talents is how she makes people feel special. I see the effect it has had on people when we go to places together. They will greet me, ‘Hi Marqs,’ and Nene they will greet, ‘NENE! Hugs!’

She just touches people wherever she goes.”

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It is often those subtle acts of kindness that endear us to someone. A kind word on a bad day. A conversation.

A smile. A helping hand. Nene cares deeply about her children and her family, her friends, and of course, Marqs.

She seeks to actively show that every single day, offering love and encouragement and inspiring those around her to do the same. She knows who and what is important to her, and she fights for them every day. This attitude is infectious to those around her, and shows a level of love, strength, and dedication that is rare these days.

Some fun facts about the lovely lady behind the avatar: 1. Nene likes to eat green bananas. Once they’re yellow, they’re too ripe for her!

2. Her favorite band of all time is The Eagles.

3. Nene often keeps her sound in Second Life muted unless she’s listening to Marqs singing or watching or performing a dance number.

The most interesting thing about the people that inspire us is that they are ordinary people doing extraordinary things in their own way. Nene Chrome is one of those people. While her name might not be known by all, those that know her see a light within her so bright that it draws them to her like moths to a flame. She logs in every day to work, to share, to keep her promises, and to show her love to those whose lives she has impacted over the years.

“Nene is the most giving, selfless person I know, and I can’t imagine anyone who is MORE inspirational that I know personally.

I count myself lucky to be with her.”

Interested in learning more about Nene? Check out the Youtube channel for Passion and Peace Productions in Second Life to see videos of Nene’s past dance performances, come see the X-A dance troupe perform live, or stop by one of Marqs DeSade’s performances to say hello!

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