Publisher/Editor-In-Chief Reign Congrejo Fashion Editor Bronxie Asst Fashion Editor Shantal Gravois CONTRIBUTORS Jackson Redstar Arya Braveheart CompE Lockwood Bronxie Sammie Audion Ai Lee Jamee Sandalwood Magissa Denver COVER PHOTO: Bronxie COVER PHOTO BY: Bronxie WRITING BY: Magissa Denver
BOSL Magazine OCTOBER 2019 Edition
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INNSMOUTH 9 WEDCOT
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FRUITS OF THE SEASON 29 !GO 49 BOSL GOES HALLOWCOUTURE 65
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INNSMOUTH Article and Photography by: Sammie Audion Places can be somewhat spooky – even scary. What better time of the year than Halloween to celebrate the spooky side of Second Life (SL)? Choosing dark settings in Windlights (atmospheric settings within SL) can truly enhance the feeling. Innsmouth is a beautifully spooky place with many details to discover, secrets to find, and scares to enjoy for a fun and exciting Halloween celebration. Some might wonder where this odd custom might be coming from. Yes, our research would take us to the United Kingdom, but I think we can do better than being that vague! Halloween – originally called ‘All Hallows Eve’ – derives from ‘Samhain’, a pagan religious festival which originates from an ancient Celtic spiritual
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tradition. In modern times, Samhain (a Gaelic word pronounced “sow-win”) is usually celebrated from October 31 to November 1. Its tracks can be found all over Europe. While commonly thought of as welcoming in the harvest, it also ushers in “the dark half of the year,” which might be where the spooky aspect is coming from. Pagan celebrants believe that the barriers between the physical world and the spirit world break down during Samhain, allowing more interaction between humans and denizens of the Otherworld. In that sense, Halloween is all about celebrating the cycle of death and rebirth – an anniversary of sorts. In the northern hemisphere, the leaves are dying and nature is preparing for the still of winter;in
the southern hemisphere, the dormant buds with chemicals in those moments. The increased heart are preparing to rebirth themselves and open rate and blood pressure come from Adrenaline and to the start of summer. Dopamine. In the process, our muscles get flooded with oxygen in preparation for the famous ‘Fight or With lack of science and stronger weight of Flight’ response. But because we understand that these mystical world views, Halloween during the Halloween scares are safe, we get to enjoy that chemical ‘darker’ ages might actually have been very boost and being pumped up rather than feeling the dangerous and scary, indeed. Luckily, in urge to fight or run away. So yes, in that sense, a little modern times, this custom is usually not life- Halloween scare can be both fun and healthy. threatening. So, might a fun-intending scare even be healthy? Certainly, a little “boo” So, get your headphones on, listen to something can make the heart beat faster – similar to scary, and indulge in an adventure at Innsmouth. In what we try to achieve when we work out this ghost town, you can find demons, gargoyles, hellat the gym. Ever noticed people coming hounds, monsters, and of course, a lot of bones within out of the haunted house are laughing as a graveyard that even has some mausolea. well as shrieking? Physically, our bodies (including the brains) are being bombarded
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With the right Windlight setting, it can certainly look spooky – perhaps the village becomes a little too real on a large monitor. For some of the photos, the setting ‘Phototools – Breakwave Building Light’ was used. So, no holding back, now! Remember that a little scare is good for you. Innsmouth is a fictional town created by American author H.P. Lovecraft to play host to his horror storiesOther writers would come to use the town for their own works. In Lovecraft’s short story “Celephaïs” (1920), he refers to Innsmouth as a fictional village in England. Later, in “The Shadow over Innsmouth” (1936), he places the town in Massachusetts. The virtual recreation within SL refers mainly to the later novel and is built with remarkable attention to detail. The town of Innsmouth is described by the author as being in a horrendous state of decay, with many of the buildings rotting close to or beyond the point of collapse.
The builder has captured this amazingly well. Make sure to visit the ‘Silent Hill’ of this two-sim installment to get a more traditional feel of Halloween.
Interestingly enough, Innsmouth is an roleplay community. If you want to enjoy the spooky side of the 1930s, this is the place to be. Why not, one might wonder. After all, in fantasy play, the players contribute to a common plot. This is not only a fun pastime but also a great way to socialize and to keep those brain cells active. Who knows, if you like it, you may even choose to make Innsmouth your virtual home for your perfect, never-ending experience.
So how about making this Halloween a virtual one, including a little time travel to New England? Perhaps make it a little rebirth or renewal celebration for your SL and find something new to keep your virtual life fresh and interesting.
Speaking of celebrations, we at BOSL are celebrating our anniversary. as well. I would like to thank you as a BOSL contributor, and I truly hope I will be able to take you to amazing places in SL in the future. In that sense, scary Halloween. Keep it fun and spooky! http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/ Innsmouth/125/86/47
WEDCOT The first impression is ‘wow’ when first landing in a Second Life theme park encompassing an entire sim. Then the second wow hits: this is EPCOT! The cyber tribute for the famous park is packed with the rides, attractions, and events of the Florida counterpart in an accessible virtual display. WEDCOT is here in all its simulated reality glory-- and ready for Halloween. Celebrate the future with Spaceship Earth, Horizons, Soarin’, the Test Track, and more. “All are here,” the park’s profile notes. “This is a tribute to the permanent world’s fair that lives within our hearts and memories. Let the magic begin!” And it does. Visitors arrive at the cyber tribute as they do the real one: by monorail. Welcome aboard for a great ride and stunning panoramic vistas of the entire park (no small task-- WEDCOT covers an entire sim). Don’t forget the photo-ops. “Almost every texture has been created from RL to give that ‘real’ feel,” notes owner-creator Trevor Sleydon, who lives five miles away from Epcot in Real Life. “Our goal is to bring the magic in-world for those who love the park but can’t always get here, for those who want to visit the park between their
Article and Photography by: CompE| vacations to Walt Disney World, and for those who have never been.” WEDCOT premiered in Second Life on October 1, 2010, and operated through November 2014. It reopened on January 6th. The park maintains a fresh, current look. Many activities happening at the RL park run concurrently in the SL one. For example, at this writing, both are celebrating a wine and food festival. WEDCOT is in no way affiliated with the Walt Disney Company, nor any affiliates or third-party vendors, but serves as a tribute to the visionary real-world property. “We are truly a fan site,” adds Trevor. But speaking of seasonal and fans, this place rocks Halloween. Featured attractions include the Haunted Mansion Holiday, the “the Nightmare Before Christmas, Mickey’s Not So Scary Boo To You Halloween Parade, and the Monsters, Inc. Trick or Treat.” On a personal note, the Haunted Mansion ride is one of the best in Second Life. Ghosts, goblins, and things that go bump in the night dance, prance, and sing in whimsical shenanigans as your “coffin” car rides by.
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The Nightmare Before Christmas is a one-of-a-kind attraction, only available in WEDCOT. Haunted Mansion, ‘Nightmare,’ and some others open October 1st and run through the Christmas Season. The theme park also offers year-round attractions. Start with the aforementioned Spaceship Earth; the towering globe is a centerpiece of both parks. Automated mannequins tell the story of mankind’s 30,000-year journey in communications from papyrus to computers and beyond.
“It was so lifelike,” recalls first-time WEBCOT visitor Shelby St. George. She’s been to EPCOT, but not Spaceship Earth. “This makes me want to return and ride the real one,” Shelby adds. “Actually, seeing everything from the monorail ride makes me want to revisit the entire park.”
Another “don’t miss” is ‘Test Track,’ the ride within a ride. Guests actually test drive a sim car during the adventure. In addition, parades run throughout the week
and are changed out for the seasons or themes. The famous World Showcase Fireworks show is available whenever you are in WEDCOT. You literally activate it. Other permanent features include shows and live music (the Taylor Swift tribute concert is in October) and all the festivals the real park has. By design, it provides a place for communities, families, and friends to come and make memories together. Can’t beat the price either -- admission to the irtual tribute is completely free.
People visit for many reasons,” notes Trevor. “Some are here for the theme park experience. They ride the rides and visit the attractions. But quite a few visit for the events like concerts and special parades.” The firework show is something to behold, as well.
But the wonder requires work-- lots of it. This place is huge. “The park really thrives because of our cast and guests,” Trevor notes, referencing the approximately 20 member staff and cast members.
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“It’s the people who make the magic come alive.” And he modestly adds with a laugh, “I just pay the tier.” Cast positions include characters, hosts, and security. Regardless of the role, all are dedicated to making sure visitors have a good time. WEDCOT is one of several similar venues, including Magicland, Enchanted Adventures,
help recharge the batteries a little, finding a place where one’s mind can be in harmony and relaxing serenity for a while. Grove Country Estates is only one estate within the big world of SL that can become the perfect fantasy hideout for some. The Nobel Prize–winning British author William Golding?
After all, there is nothing wrong with getting to know our dreams and desires a little bit better. Moreover, finding more and more things we like about ourselves can help build
and Sarah’s Magic Kingdom. But they are not officially affiliated with each other. We are all friends and refer to each other as ‘sister parks,” says Trevor. With something new around every corner, WEDCOT is a treat. In October, it is a Trick or Treat. Visit alone, or bring a ghoul friend. Good times in a famous theme park await for Halloween and beyond.
a healthy self-esteem that will carry over into our RL. http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/ Seaside%20Drive/158/132/29
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FRUITS OF THE SEASON Autumn is now in full swing, and I have been touring Second Life, looking at some amazing sims all decked out in fall colours with some incredibly realistic trees, leaves, and autumn decor. These scenes inspired me to create today’s outdoor scene. A celebration of all things October, it has a generous scoop of autumn topped with a heap of Halloween sprinkles! I wanted this scene to celebrate fall and all the amazing things that come with it. Two of the things I love about autumn are the amazing fruit and edible goodies, so I decided to create a little village scene that is celebrating the bountiful harvest of the season. Naturally, the first placed items were these gorgeous Condesa Buildings from Serenity Style. I had originally planned a street with a footpath and road, but somehow it evolved into this gorgeous wee plaza. So, of course, a fountain was needed, and then I had the European vibe going so I added the gelato car, hot chocolate bike, and scooters. Once all the major pieces were laid out, it was time for the decor! I had a blast hunting about in my inventory and around SL for some seasonal items that would work with the look I was going for. I can
Article and Photography by: Arya Braveheart say finding things a month in advance is rarely easy, but I think I made it work! I am happy with the finished result. I enjoyed scattering leaves, finding plants and cats to place about, and putting up the fence. I also loved adding the ivy to the walls and hanging up the Halloween decorations. I felt like I was getting ready for the party that this little part of town is having. Finally, the last decor items to be put out were all the fruit boxes, barrels, baskets, and food goodies. I will confess that I almost drooled over all the assorted cakes on the bakery table! Once the apples were spilled, the trees were added, and the last leaves were thrown into place, the scene was ready for me to take the photos. As I am taking each photo, I see things that need fixing and gaps that need filling, so the scene changes with each picture snapped.
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This is why I never do the wide whole-scene pictures until last so that I know I haven’t missed anything. A helpful hint there for anyone photographing a scene! Someone once asked me what the very last piece I rez is. In this case, it was the black cat by the bicycle. How apt in the month of October. Happy Halloween, everyone. Credits:
Serenity Style - “Condesa” Buildings - Blue, Adobe, Mustard, Pink, Rust Mailbox Messages, Rust Mailbox Post, Jules Fall Fruit Baskets, Indiana Harvest - Lemon Box, Apple Basket, New autumn leaves ground, Autumn pile of blankets, Autumn Pumpkins {what next} - Cocoa-On-The-Go Cart, Fall Harvest Wheelbarrow, Summer Garden Hanging Planter 1, Petite Mailboxes, ‘Hello Fall’ - Mini Tree (lit), Welcome Mat, Fall Hanging Lanterns on String, Autumn Bicycle Decor, Vacanza Scooter Set2, Orchard Ladder, Orchard Fallen Apples Decor, Harvest Wheat Vase, Fall Hanging Lanterns With Posts (natural), Vacanza Scooter SE (Decor Only), Autumn Ground Cover 4x422769 - Bunch of Pumpkins Orange, Box Of Oranges, Box Of Apples 8f8 - Green Grocers - Lemon Crate, Apple Crate, Lemonade, Apple Juice Apple Fall - Chester Outdoor Dining Table Kiwi & Blueberry Cheesecake, Lemon Whip Drizzle Cake, Pumpkin Clonch (Colours)
Lemonade Bucket, Macarons in Box, Photographers’ Easel, Macarons on Sketchbook~BAZAR~ - Morocco-Potted plant Bee Designs - Halloween Time - Gacha 4 and 9 Botanical - Vintage Porch Mailbox (Yellow and Blue)brocante. - GBBC gacha / lemon drizzle cake [Cb] - Halloween and PumpkinsCHEZ MOI - Potted Fall Flower, Halloween Door Decor, Big Pumpkin Basket, Sunset Bistro Set, Gelato Car, Fall Leaves Ground, Stone Garden Fountain, Orange Cake, Cider Bar Set [CIRCA] - “Oakfield” Fabric Pumpkin Stack - Porch Decor, “Oakfield” Hay Bale Stacked + Apples - Autumn [DDD] - Twinkling Ivy DISORDERLY. / Harvest Apples / Stand Dreamscapes Decor - *Topiary* Pumpkins with lights dust bunny - hoya plant, fresh fruit stand - full set, dwarf fruit trees, diy rose tea - gift, berry cake- group gift, fresh fruit stand fallen appleSEED’s - Exclusive Fall Garden w Owlbench, Limited Fall Background TreesGOOSE - Concrete wood modern fence, pile of apples, bag apples+Half-Deer+ - Colorcopia Pumpkin - Stack of 3Illusions of Grandeur: French Pitcher-Ochre, French Trug Basket, Potpouri in a Blue Bowl, Framed Auricula with Moth[IK] - Harvest Time - Apples Barrel, Harvest Rack, Apples Crate, Stand BarrelImage Essentials - Full Perm Mesh Cat - Cleaning 1 and Sitting Rub 1 Little Branch - Elm Shrub {Animated} 4Seasons Madras - Pumpkin flower lights 1 & 2, Big Pumpkin Trolley, :: NEWCHURCH :: - Jar of Lemons[noctis] - Mirkwood Farms Milk and holder, Nature witch #2 plants and kittyNOMAD // Scattered Leaves B // Yellow Reds *paper moon* - Wildflower Wabbits Planters: Red & Yellow - A PILOT - Barrel Pumpkin Display[shutter field] - pumpkin harvest, box of plants - autumn flowers, box of orangesTrompe Loeil - Octobertime Pumpkins - Bats, Wicked, Moon & Stars, Broom Parking, Odette Planter Square Brown,
ENCHANTED WORLD OF GOTCHA MERLIN The first thing you notice when arriving at the Go! main store is the giant zipper path to the main entrance. Adding even more whimsy: giant butterflies, flowers, and a floating blue whale are there to welcome you. Such an entry can make you feel like you stepped through the Looking Glass, but this isn’t Wonderland, this is Go! -- where the unusual and beautiful come together under the careful tending of Gocha Merlin. Gocha entered Second Life in March of 2007. Creative in real life, she was drawn to the other creative minds here. One Christmas, she wanted to spread joy to her new friends by making them gifts. There was just one problem: she couldn’t find a Santa costume. So, with the philosophy of “what you do not find, you must create,” she made that costume herself. This simple act of virtual creativity started her on a path that lead to over 12 years of creating in Second Life. Just like her landing point, Gocha’s designs are eclectic and feature a mix of “hippie , boho , steampunk, fantasy, grandma, and retro styles”. Nowhere can this mix be seen better than in her gachas. (After all, she has over 70 with new ones being added often.)
Article BY: Yhishara Cerise, Photography: Jackson Redstar, Azaak Sahara You can see that each one is crafted with love, and care; attention is given to every detail. Each one also offers the ability to mix and match by including everything from tops, bottoms, dresses, accessories, footwear, and sometimes even hairstyles. All in various colors or styles, and all perfectly coordinated (especially the rares). When I asked her for words to describe her clothing, one of the words she chose was “unpretentious”-- a her gachas also exemplify this. When looking at them, the mind can’t help but be inspired: “What if I wore this with this or with something from this set over here…?” While the rares show a possibility of how to wear the items, the real stylist is the purchaser, with the vendor picture only serving to inspire, nothing more. What is even more impressive is that each gacha collection was created all at once, from start to finish. Gocha feels that if she takes a break during the collection’s creation, she will not be working with the individual vision of the project.
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When I asked what inspires her, she had the most delicious analogy: “There is a hunger independent of you for cut, style, color, texture. Something like the feeling when you decide whether to eat chocolate, strawberry, or Stracciatella ice cream. I choose a few sketches that I just like, the rest stay and wait for their turn, which sometimes comes and sometimes not.” She always chooses to create clothing she likes, not to fit with what is popular or what will sell. By making that choice, she stays true to herself and her own vision. vision is.
One need only look at the textures she creates to see how incredible that vision is.
Texturing is something Gocha considers to be “the best part of the creative process.” She states that “In ‘sewing’ clothes for SL, I imagine the material from which it is made, how it is arranged on the model; I know if it is silk, jeans, knitted wool, etc.” She considers the style of clothes and acknowledges that “not every fabric and not every material matches the style.” She prefers to use ‘warm’ and ‘organic’ textures in her items, using several artisanal knits,
crochet, and lace but not a lot of metal or formal And who can blame these women? Gocha’s casual fabrics. wear is designed to be some of the most comfortable clothing in Second Life with oversized, flowing, and In fact, visitors won’t see much formalwear at all. cozy being the norm. They are designed to live in When she does create a formal item, she told me, and have fun in. To Gocha, fun is as important as “These are breaks. Every woman checks what she anything else; so far, she is having a great time doing feels best. When the moments of supersaturation the things she loves. So, here’s to another 12 years come, we are looking for something different; we of her incredible artistic talents! change hairstyles, clothes. Sometimes, we must check if we can be elegant ladies, queens, princesses. And of course we are, but then we are happy to come back to our very unofficial outfit. “ Bosl edition
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