July 2009 Issue of VR Style

July 2009 Issue

49 Sims in the Region of Caledon Elegance That Is... M’Lady SteampunkCyberpunk Sci-Fi Fantasy Xcentricity by Nix Sands Rights and Censorship New Babbage a Steampunk Marvel DV8 Partners in Cyber-style Steampunk Niche the Julia Collection ....AND MANY MORE!!!!

That’s Entertainment!

Unzipped : Sci-fi “Punk” Club for All Genre The Gay Clubber Mixes with the DJs Booth An Interview with Jarrod Fitzpatrick & Jonathan Schenkel of Club Blaze Steampunks Support Relay for Life

68 136 174 186

Here and Now Rights and Censorship

106

Travel-LOG Steampunk...in the Regions of Caledon New Babbage: A Steampunk Marvel Gardens and Concepts in Second Life

Crossing Barriers Spring Clean Your Resume Business Spotlight Filling the Steampunk Niche with the Julia Collection Victorian Antique and Artistry of Fatima Ur

2

72 110

156 26 38 8

conte

28 98 100 160 164 192

Designer’s Den Elegance that is M’Lady Xcentricity with Nix Sands BlakOpal Designs by BlakOpal Galicia Destany Laval...Stories Through Designs Steampunk & Beyond...Thomus Keen Sci-Fi Creator DV8 Designers: Partners in Cyber-style

From the Desk...

44

62 28

Airship Designer Carrah Rossini

Human Interest Yours Truly, Ann SLanders Steampunk and Cyberpunk...

Living Science Fiction Fantasy

ents 3

VR Style Editorial Staff:

On the Cover:

Ariel Lingiuan Publisher & Editor in Chief

Eddi Haskell, VR Style’s Creative Director photographed models Iolejanana Chajit and Jago Constantine inside one of Carrah Rossini’s steampunk airships, the Neriedo flyiing submarine. The tones and textures of this photograph evoke romantic Victorian age in which much of the Steampunk genre is set.

Eddi has an interview with Carrah on page 34 in this issue.

Aristippus Larssen Sherrie Shepherd Iolejanana Chajit Natalie Niven Segment Editors Eddi Haskell Creative Director Contributors: Sherrie Shepherd Eddi Haskell KathleenK Spitteler Cort Parkin Luscious Giano Rajeesh Navarathna Shartan Silverstar Staff Photographers: Luscious Giano Roxie Richez Nellie Choche Carey DeCuir

4

Editor’s Notes: Hello once again readers, this month we are presenting to you a very interesting theme, somethng that has been around but hasnt been given the right exposure so to speak. VR Style is presenting to you this month our focus on Steampunk/Cyberpunk issue.

Here in SL, we are given the opportunity to live a lifestyle we choose and enjoy the creativity that our fellow residents are able to make. We have gone around the grid and found very interesting pieces about this subject matter. We also have found some cross breeds between the Victorian Era, Steampunk and Cyberpunk and we would like to present this as well.

Moreover, let me take this opportunity and invite you all as well to the joint event of VR Style and N.A.I.L. Productions in a Steampunk/Cyberpunk Festival this coming August. Starting from August 8 until 28, 2009. The Festival will be showcasing various steampunk and cyberpunk items like clothes, weapons, gadgets, accessories, furnitures and vehicles.

And with that....happy reading dear friends, this issue is for you.

Cheers!

Ariel Lingiuan Ariel Lingiuan Publisher + Editor in Chief VR Style

5

Victor of Fa

Do you h So do I! Fatima U period fu tete.....

Luscious SL from the

Giano: When and what brought you into beginning?

Fatima Ur: I read about Second Life in an article on Yahoo News in October of 2006. I was bored and came to see. It was incredible. I never left...I had zero experience with online gaming at that time and I certainly didn’t know how to build anything lol LG: So you have been here quite a long time! When did you first learn to build?

FU: Well when I started, I would not give payment on file info to some “game” so I had to finance my second life for clothes and a small place to live...so I became a dancer in a club lol. Very quickly that got boring...so I took a few building classes. In real life I had loved to make doll houses...so I sort of transferred my love of Victorian houses into dollhouses I could actually live in. I opened a little 8

rian Antique and Artistry atima Ur

By: Luscious Giano

have a love for Victorian styled houses and antique furnishings?

I was honored to sit down for a lighthearted conversation with Ur of Antique Artistry one of the well known builders that does urnitures, houses and items. Let me share with you our tete-a-

store January of 2007 selling picture frames and rugs...the only thing I could make at the time hahaha. But they sold enough to pay the rent, then I just kept making harder things and the store grew....

LU: And now you have become one of the most well known builders in SL! FU: my partner purchased our first sim Fatima’s Love in late 2007 and then I HAD to learn to build more and fast. So I started making buildings and landscapes... and well every thing you see here for 22 Sims, lol yes it did sort of snowball :D LG: 22 Sims? And all of them as beautiful as this? You are truly amazing!

FU: ty :) If you get a chance take the boat tour or the balloon tour...it will take you over many of them LG: What made you decide to rebuild the Canadian castle here in SL?

9

FU: I had been building a few Victorian homes at that time, and my partner and I wanted something special for ourselves to live in. but I didn’t want the typical medieval castles you see all over SL. I had seen the exterior of Craigdarroch castle when I visited Victoria Canada.... (I wish I had toured it now!) so I did a search and found out about its history. I was unable on line to find the architectural diagrams for it...so I contacted the museum and they very kindly sent me the basic blue prints in email. I used that to make the exterior walls the same as the original in layout....I chose to give the general feel inside but keep it to the basic needed rooms for second life living....no one can furnish a 50 room castle hahah LG: Oh trust me, *I* would be the one who would try to furnish one!

FU: heheh LG: I have walked through each room of that build and I must say it is very realistic...the build and the textures give it such a warm feeling.

FU: ty so much that was my intention. My partner Incanus Merlin customizes most of the textures I use in our homes LG: Looks like you two have the perfect partnership! Did you meet in SL also?

FU: Yes, we did...he is my best friend. Though we have very separate real lives, he in England and I in the US...we chat once or twice a day, every day. We are really a team when it comes to the houses we make here :) LG: So where will Fatima Ur go from here?

12

More Sims for more castles?

FU: well, Antique Artistry comprises three full Sims now and sells everything from furniture to garden supplies to prefab houses. Honestly...there are only so many hours in the day hahahah...it will continue to improve definitely. I am rebuilding my earliest builds, improving, and adding more every single day. My Antique Artistry group has close to a thousand members...and they are always clamoring for more “stuff” hehehe. I do plan or HOPE to rebuild castle Victoria next year. I’d like to rebuild it with sculpted columns and such to trim prims. With a rebuild, it will drop prims from 800 down to probably 500... but it’s all just in my imagination now :) LG: I am sure it will be a total work of art when completed and we all cannot wait to see it!

FU: All I make is really a pleasure...it makes me happy to build, and HOPEFULLY that happiness shines through in the finished product LG: Fatima it was such a pleasure spending this time with you! Please keep in touch so we can follow up with your next set of projects!

FU: definitely, thank you so much :))

17

. . . . e c n a g e l E . . . . . s i t a h T y d a L ’ M by: Teaa Demina s n g i e h Des c o h C e i l l e N : y b o t o h P

18

Models: Iolejanana Chajit & Azerath Inglewood Clothes: Ladies Kilt and Gents Kilt, Tartan

by Teaa Demina of M’Lady

Models: Nadia Felwitch and Owan Landar Clothes: “Admiral’s” Lady and “Admiral” by Teaa Demina of M’Lady

Models: Ariel Lingiuan & Lanzer Cleanslate Clothes: Princess Sissi and The Guv

by Teaa Demina of M’Lady

Models: Tesan Lane & Glitter Bolissima Clothes: The Rogue and Toile

by Teaa Demina of M’Lady

Spring Clean Your Resume

By Kim Isaacs, Monster Resume Expert Spring is in the air. It’s the time of year when you wipe off the winter dust and let the sun shine in. Before you get all excited (yeah, right) about tackling the filth in your home, grab your resume and a pen. The first cleanup project this year should be your resume.

The Look Whoever says looks don’t matter hasn’t been out on the job search battlefield lately. You have to use every possible advantage to compete in today’s job market.

Make sure your resume looks polished. Be daring. Make your achievements stand out with bold type. Looks do count if you want to be picked for an interview.

26

Facelift Does your resume look old and withered? Has it grown to three or four pages over time? Do you still list your first job after college graduation? Give your resume a facelift by condensing your background. Take some years off your resume by limiting your job history to the past 10 years. Summarize the rest of your experience with one general paragraph. A lighter, more updated look should open more doors.

Today’s Terminology Does your resume still refer to the affirmative action plan you wrote back in the 1980s? Do outdated terms and acronyms appear throughout your resume?

Terminology changes from year to year, so be sure your resume reflects current trends. For example, today’s employers are searching for HR people with diversity experience. Your experience with a company’s affirmative action plan may fall in that category, but if an employer searches its database using the word “diversity,” you won’t make the cut. Update the terminology on your resume so you don’t miss opportunities.

Scanning Is Here to Stay In the old days of manual resume screening, it was important to fill your resume with action words such as “created” or “managed.” Today, resumes are typically scanned into resume databases. Action words are out and nouns are in. If you dust off your resume every year or two, you can avoid the unpleasant task of doing a time-consuming major resume blowout. Get it right this year, and next year you might be able to spend the time shopping for a new spring wardrobe.

27

A popular segment of life-style and role-play in SL are the Steampunk and Cyberpunk sub-genre of science fiction. So what are these intriguing aspects of SL life all about? Let’s start with some simple explanations.

Steampunk is a fantasy and science fiction genre rooted in the Victorian era but with fantasy steam powered machines giving a speculative interpretation of history, ‘the path not taken’. The term Steampunk was first coined by author K. W. Jeter in his 1979 novel Morlock Night. This is said to By: be what established Steampunk as a genre.

steampunk

a

Living s fiction f

Cyberpunk is a science fiction genre noted for its focus on ‘high tech and low life’. The term comes from two words ‘cybernetics’ (the mathematical science relating to communication flow between living organisms and machines) and ‘punk’ (unconventional, bizarre). Cyberpunk as a term was first used in 1983 by author Bruce Bethke in his short story ‘Cyberpunk’.

28

Sherrie

Just to confuse matters there are a couple of other elements to the science fiction ‘punk’ phenomenon. From these basic genre others have evolved, namely Dieselpunk and Cybergoth But more on that later.

The first exposure for many SLers to these genres is the attraction to the fabulous fashions created by the talented and imaginative designers who have focused their creative energy on these niches of SL lifestyle.

SL clothing designers like Destany L a v a l , Thom us Keen and Blakopal Shepherd Galicia h a v e masterfully created Steampunk fashions depicting a classic Victorian era feel but with that element of punk that sets it apart from the traditional Victorian fashions creating neoVictorian designs. If you’re in the company of Steampunks, please don’t mention the word ‘Victorian’ lest you be the recipient of indignant stares.

More appropriately, they refer to their style as Industrial Steampunk.

Their clothing is accessorized with 29

and cyberpunk

science fantasy

e

such things as oversized or undersized precariously placed top hats and crudely mechanized accouterments as brass goggles, unusual parasols and other odds and ends, often adorned with cogs, moving gears and rivets. In this genre of science fiction, the lifestyle portrays the pseudo-Victorian world envisioned by science fiction authors Jules Vern ad H.G. Wells. This is an environment where modern inventions are redesigned to fit the Victorian/ Industrial period application of steam powered mechanisms thus creating that speculative interpretation of history (Speculative Science Fiction) as seen in such stories portrayed in the H.G. Wells novel ‘Time Machine’, the comic book series, ‘The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen’, and the Wild Wild West TV series and movie. The music of the Steampunks is characterized by such bands as Abney Park whose classic Steampunk anthem Airship Pirate can be heard on YouTube http://www.youtube. com/watch?v=-WrPWFn7e2c.

Across the Steamlands of SL there are several Steampunk communities, Caledon and New Babbage being two very popular ones.

Top notch SL designers like Vasha Martinek and Dysturbed Sin have

30

captured the Cyberpunk essence of a rebellious culture living in a dystopian society. Their creations are accessorized with gas masks, gas canister belts, and sometimes armor and weapons giving the impression of a fierce futuristic rebel ready to do battle and reminiscent of such classic cult movies as ‘Blade Runner’, the Matrix trilogy and Frank Herbert’s ‘Dune’. It’s not unusual for a cyberpunk to possess a limb, limbs or eyes that are mechanical or robotic in nature Vs organic. A popular SL cyberpunk community can be found at Insilico.

Clothing designer Laval says of the sci-fi sub-cultures, “Steampunk is often associated with cyberpunk and shares a similar fan base and theme of rebellion, but developed as a separate movement (though both have considerable influence on each other).

Apart from time period and level of technological development, the main difference between cyberpunk and steampunk is that steampunk settings usually tend to be less obviously dystopian than cyberpunk, or lack dystopian elements entirely.” Laval’s designs effectively represent a cross section of fashions spanning the Victorian era (Steampunk) through more futuristic and post- apocalyptic

31

genres.

Dieselpunk, possessing Cyberpunk sensibilities, is an alternate-history post-apocalyptic environment in which the most important aspect of society is diesel fuel, and the machinery that depend upon it. A point of reference would be the fashions and life styles as seen in the Mad Max series of movies.

Cybergoth has elements of Cyberpunk as well as Steampunk merged with characteristics of the goth subculture.

Born of the melancholy and mystical sound of the gothic rock scene of the early 1980’s it’s imagery is influenced by horror movies and to some extent the BDSM culture. The fashions which can be found at stores like DV8, owned by Martinek and Sin, are most always black in color, accessorized with black hair, black makeup and of course, the chalkiest white skin.

While fashion is a big draw toward these genres of science fiction lifestyle and role-play, there are growing numbers of SLers who join SL because of their RL fascination with the music and extensive number of books, movies, art and games available as part of our pop culture. These folks are serious about the lifestyle aspect of Steampunk, Cyberpunk, etc. and 32

are embracing the opportunity to role-play.

Valorie Knoller, discovered the Steampunk sci fi genre when exploring SL, however, she said, “I have read various sci fi books, that explored the basic concepts of alternate technological paths, the what if ....the airplane, internal combustion engine where never invented and the great empires of the 19th century never collapsed.” As far as the RP, she is predominantly a feline at Toxian City and is one of the Toxian Prowlers.

She says, “When I’m feeling all dark and mysterious I play a feline demoness.” She says she can totally immerse herself into her role. She feels that, “it’s great to be part of the story, and watching it unfold as we all interact. A lot of thought goes into a good role play scenario. It’s much more than beating the crap out of each other, though that’s fun too!. Role-play is theater; you are the actress, set designer, script writer and become immersed in your role, not to mention the friendships you form with your group. Steampunk fits puuurfectly into the theme of a post apocalyptic future or alternate reality, not to mention the creativity of the Valorie Knowller, Steampunk Player designers! Imagination unfolded and 33

ours to enjoy. Besides its fun riding in a blimp!”

Perriwinkle Waves an avid Cyberpunk RPer explains her fascination with the sci fi genre, “I’ve been a fan of cyberpunk since reading my first cyberpunk novel, The Diamond Age: A Young Lady’s Illustrated Primer

by Neal Stephenson. Reading that book opened my eyes to a new way of thinking about science fiction. No freaky aliens, no tech that we couldn’t imagine yet. Not even real space travel. The things that had normally turned me away from sci-fi weren’t usually present in Cyberpunk, and the few things I did love about scifi (networks, robots, nanotechnology) were always center stage.” Waves discovered a Cyberpunk sim, Nexus Prime, shortly after joining SL and stayed with it until its demise. Now a resident of the popular Insilico sim, she describes her RP, “I play an underground gynoid technoprophet who keeps an above-ground job managing a strip club catering to technofetishists. I’ve danced in clubs around SL and always had bad reactions from the management about wearing my cybernetics onstage.

Now I’m the management, and I don’t hire anyone who doesn’t show a little Perriwinkle Waves, Cyberpunk RPer 34

metal. I also see patterns and shapes in grand flow of data through the city’s network, and am desperately trying to find a way to use this information to bring InSilico’s residents to salvation.” She goes on to say, “A lot of talk goes on in InSilico about the nature of a human soul, love, sentience, and so on.

We aren’t a combat sim, nor a sex sim, and I think that keeps our RP fairly intellectual in nature. I’ve enjoyed the philosophical debates in the Blue Ant bar as much as the grinding gynoid dancers in my own club, if not more.

The storylines on our community website are rich with accurate technological references and our city’s more public romances are all steeped in deep spiritual questioning.” She highly recommends RP to others saying, “I think there’s a role for everyone, and probably a cyberpunk sim for everyone, too. Some people like tentacles, some are into spaceships. Personally, I dig robots. Bless the builders for bringing them all to life here.”

Coredump Writer, also a resident of Insilico, discovered Cyperpunk in literature. She explains, “It started mostly with a couple of seminal works in the early 80s... Neuromancer by W. Gibson and Hardwired by W.J. Williams.

It was right when the “punk movement” was dying. I personally was a huge fan of cyberpunk at that time... I read a lot of novels, consumed a lot of media around it, even played pen and paper games, wrote articles... mostly for specialized magazines and web sites.” She initially joined SL for business purposes in 2007 exploring the possibilities for marketing campaigns in SL.” While the business angle didn’t work out, something else did, she said, “Somehow, something caught me, and that was related to role-playing games precisely. SL was providing a unique experience in this regard, and I think it captured the player in me.” She talked about the theme of the cyborg (man blending with machine) as a presence in Cyberpunk RP but also said that some RP being just plain humans. Explaining this further she says, “Basically, there is the full rainbow of shades between pure-strain human to a fully synthetic being. In reference to the movie Blade Runner... The underlying question remains “What defines being human?”. That has been actually a new trend in the cyberpunk movement, developed a bit later, with the coming of the transhumanism thesis.” In her RP at Insilico she plays a “synthetic” which she describes as “a synthetic body hosting the remains of

35

Coredump Writer (left) with fellow RPer BangBang Kimono (right)

36

a human mind. You can think of Ghost in the Shell as inspiration, struggling to figure out if she’s human or not, trying to belong and trying to find out what she is. I knew Core would be a synthetic... and would be a combat model with some psychological issue.

The rest I built backward as the story unfolded.” Writer recommends taking a look at the Insilico ning for insight into the storylines, http:// insilico.ning.com. Of RP she feels, “it’s like a permanent collective creation, between Improvisation Theater and just plain game. It’s very fulfilling for the mind. Role-playing isn’t a passive process like watching a movie.” When asked if she’d recommend RP to others she said, “Heck yes. I’ve tried a lot of things in Second Life, but I think role-playing is actually what it’s best for.”

37

Furniture designer, Julez Odigaunt, enhances SLers role-play (RP) by providing her line of Steampunk inspired furniture, the Julia Collection, available at Unzipped and Steam powered Nuts Industrial Steampunk , Fairchang Ampere Main, 130,121,24.

a flavor of grunge, she fills a needed niche for those hardcore Steampunk enthusiasts looking to furnish their virtual homes in the decorative hallmarks of this science fiction genre.

A stroll around her showroom offers a glimpse into her imagination as you A visit to Odigaunt finds her regally marvel at her Steaming Steampunk seated upon her Steampunk Throne Bed designed with a headboard of adorned with industrial gears so moving industrial gears spewing

Filling The Steampunk Niche with the Julia Collection

By : Sherrie Shepherd

Photo by: Carey DeCuir

characteristic of the Steampunk billows of steam with every rotation. genre of science fiction.

Other furniture ensembles are Odigaunt has captured the essence designed to set the stage for a of Steampunk, a fusion of Victorian dwelling inhabited by a sub-class of style, fantasy, and elements of Victorian society exhibiting a grungy technology. Steampunk is a science unkempt environment. You can’t help fiction genre born of the industrial neo- but smile at the humor she transcends Victorian life style portrayed by Jules through her creations.

Vern and H.G. Wells in their science fiction novels. She has accentuated the ‘punk’ in her furniture designs.

Unusual and whimsical with 38

Odigaunt explains her own fascination, which has influenced her choice of furniture design, “I find beauty in anything old, used,

even battered.

There is so much character in them and they tell a story when you look at them.”

She finds no interest in clean lines, modern or contemporary styles saying, “It really doesn’t speak to me.

Victorian Steampunk is such an interesting fantasy genre but its images are what captured me. Once you dive into it, it takes you to endless destinations.

There is so much depth and beauty in it. Rustic antique (the past) mixed with technology (the future) creates limitless stories and images in one’s mind.”

Her furniture line has elements of antique, fantasy and grunge which come together to tell individual stories. She emphasizes that it’s the grunge that provides the old

battered quality which gives the feel of the “rough” days they have seen.

Applying the right amount of whimsy to her designs, she wants to help provide a vacation from RL for her clientele. She hopes the addition of surprising little poses here and there will brighten someone’s day. “If I manage to put a smile on someone’s face, that would make my day”, she 39

says. The clientele she speaks of are predominantly those involved in Steampunk RP. Odigaunt herself is not into the RP aspect although she loves the ideas of the interesting stories that emanate from the RP. “I do not role play but admire the vivid imagination of role players. They inspire me.”, she says.

For the future, Odigaunt would like to create wearable furniture and sees herself focusing more on art pieces to add to her collection. She also wants to do more in terms of custom orders.

Odigaunt attributes a good friend and brilliant artist for motivating her to build and mentoring her along the way. She also knows she owes a lot to the SL community saying, “What am I without them? I had such wonderful supporters... and without them, I would not have had the inspiration that has taken me this far.” To find out more about her furniture line, contact Odigaunt, visit her store or see her collection on xStreet.

40

Before I begin this month’s interview, I would like to personally thank you, our readers, for your enthusiasm for our first issue of VR Style. Ariel Linguan, our Editor- In-Chief and Publisher, supported rest of the staff and me, have put in many hard hours in launching VR style over the past several weeks. Bringing an over 200 page issue to you is a labor of love; monetary interests are certainly not whats driving us to stay up these long hours!

I am starting this column for two reasons.

First, I want to provide some quick thoughts on design and creative issues that are surfacing right now, not only for Second Life, but for Virtual Worlds in general.

I’ve decided to do this first part in a rapid fire format. So here it goes: • The Architecture of Zindra, the new adult continent: I am not impressed.

Kama Center is not very sexy, and not very advanced. Teal blue is one of the most uninviting colors Linden could have picked. It looks like it is built from plastic. Linden needs to rip it down and start all over – or risk being blown away by new virtual worlds like Blue Mars.

• The new virtual world of Blue Mars: Yes, it is getting a lot of publicity.

And yes, it is gorgeous. We need to see how much bandwidth and computing power is going to be

44

From the Desk of VR Style

Eddi Haske Airship Designer

e’s Creative Director:

ell Interviews r Carrah Rossini VR Style Creative Director Eddi Haskell in the cockpit of the Selene Cloud Hugger airship.

required of us to get this new technology to work. I hope I am proven wrong, and can’t wait for a test drive- even though I understand that they are controlling the number of people who can actually build real content.

• American Cancer Society Relay for Life in Second Life: What a wonderful thing. People doing what they love to do, design things, and then all money going to support this amazing cause. Make sure to buy as many of the amazing designs on sale all over the place!

Second, I plan to interview one designer or builder in depth every month. And I want to try to get as much real design information as they can share.

This month’s interview is with Carrah Rossini, who has built some of the most amazing and beautiful Steampunk and Decopunk airships, one of which, the Nereide flying submarine, I photographed for our front cover this month.

By the way, if you have never heard of Decopunk, like Steampunk, it projects a world of advanced asynchronous technology, but in the art deco or modernist era of 1918 – 1940. I thought I just made the term up, but I just Googled some usages of the term, and feel less brilliant as a result.

Now, on with our interview!

45

Th

he cockpit of the Steampunk Dreamliner looking over New Babbage.

Carrah Rossini grew up and still lives in New Jersey, on the East Coast of the United States. She comes from a family in which design played an important role, her father is an architect; and her mother was an art teacher.

The cockpit of the Steampunk Dreamliner lo

Carrah decided to pursue computer programming, and is currently working for a small startup. But it is clear after seeing her amazingly creative airship designs that there is an enormous natural talent here at play.

Eddi Haskell: Were you always interested in Science Fiction?

Carrah Rossini: My dad had a small science fiction and fantasy library with titles such as The First Men on the Moon and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, as well as some more recent Science Fiction novels. I loved reading these books, and they helped form my interest in the genre.

EH: Do you consider yourself artistic? I find your airship designs some of the most visually stunning in SL. to speak besides scripting. I grew up CR: I suppose I do consider myself artistic surrounded by and with appreciation for but don’t have any talents that I know of. art and engineering. I found SL to be a I can’t draw or paint or create anything wonderful outlet for creativity. tangible. I do a lot of web design work EH: Is SL your first virtual world? these days, and dabble with photography CR: Yes, although I spent some of my on the side. life online playing online games, first in EH: Do you have any formal design Anarchy Online, followed by about a training? year in World of Warcraft.

CR: I don’t have any formal training so EH: When did you first start in SL?

48

ooking over New Babbage.

CR: This is the second time I have been in SL. A few friends and I joined in 2005.

I felt uneasy with the idea of spending money online back then, and chasing after virtual items. I did not appreciate the full creative and social potential of SL. The second time around was a charm.

I have met a lot of very friendly people here, and I still have friends who I have kept in touch over the past two years of my “second” SL experience.

EH: What did you do when you came back to SL the second time in 2007?

CR: I spent the first month prowling sims and clubs and meeting people. Then I decided to get my own plot to have a place where I could entertain my friends.

It was a boxy castle filled with freebies.

EH: Is that when you first started designing things?

CR: Within a few weeks of my “second”

49

The Lylanna blimp being used for commerical purposes at New Babbage airport.

The spacious interior of the Lylanna blimp utilizes both oriental and steampunk mofits.

SL I begun to create things I could not find, or found to be too expensive. My designs evolved into complex and embarrassing shapes covered with the freebie textures. With time, I begun to use my own create custom textures. I was recreating my fantasies, for example, a castle with a private garden, and custom interiors to match.

EH: Can we talk about your airships now? They are beautiful, and are some of the most fascinating “steampunk” genre items in Second Life. What inspired you to first design them?

CR: Eddi, I appreciate your kind comments! Every time I venture in world I see things which make me feel most humble. I wanted to create something that I’ve not seen here before- mobile skyboxes ready to be rezzed and used which would also be fully functional. I felt that airship design was perfect for that role as it could “hover” by itself.

EH: Please tell us about your first steampunk airship design.

CR: The first thing that I designed that could be considered steampunk would be the Lylanna blimp. The idea for it came from a friend as we were working on a skybox - what if we made it a blimp, and what if it could move, and so on. I’d like to revisit it again some day, and perhaps come out with a newer version.

52

EH: Did you have a specific steampunk do not really fit well into any particular vision in mind? genre - that they may just “make the CR: Actually, the Lylanna happened by mark” so to speak. I’ve actually had accident. In fact most of the airships one of my ships banned from a sim were designed in a similar manner. I because the controls were too modern. first started designing the Lylanna as I corrected this very quickly and the ship a cockpit of a starship. In case of the was reinstated. I feel it’s impossible to Nightshade, I was simply making a satisfy everyone here, so I try to make them as “neutral” as possible. giant UFO as a joke for a friend.

EH: So you consider yourself more an eclectic designer, not encompassing any one style? Does this ever create problems?

EH: Making things “neutral” sounds to me like you are making things bland.

But your designs are not bland at all!

I think you are experimenting and taking some design risks.

CR: It is interesting that you say that.

My biggest worry was that my airships CR: I do take risks if I feel the design The interior of the Selene Cloud Hugger evokes 1930’s vision of oriental travel combined with art deco motifs.

53

The Selene Cloud Hugger photographed using Sailor’s Delight in advanced sky editor is one

of the most gorgeous transportation vehicles in Second Life.

The central are of the Neriede Flying Submarine makes great use of Victorian-era textures.

warrants it. The Selene was my biggest gamble. I felt it didn’t really belong to anything out there, except perhaps an Anime theme. Even its propulsion was something I had to create a storyline for.

It doesn’t fit the Victorian theme because it does use electricity for its propulsion.

But the customers seem to have been very kind and understanding, and I feel that it was a worthy experiment.

appeal, especially the flying submarine which we are featuring on the cover in this month’s issue. Is this something that you thought of?

CR: Initially the Nereide flying submarine was to have a much more mechanical look. I had designed it with lots of pipes and valves, leaky faucets, gearsvery grunge. The idea for a different interior came from a customer who said EH: Your airships have a “Jules Verne” that they would like to see a ship that’s 56

not have now?

CR: None of them ended up being “pure”, meaning they could just hover without use of some sort of propulsion.

I’m working on one that comes closer to the idea of a true blimp. I like the idea of combining technology with fantasy and magic, and create things which can be more universal; a flying boat or a submarine, and ships that are powered by the forces of nature. One day I’d like to build a pure Sci-Fi ship, but sadly I don’t have any ideas for it yet. Perhaps I’ll try to see if I can make something that would go well with the Star Wars theme. I loved the movies when I was young EH: Where do you get your amazing textures? Do you make them yourself?

more of a mobile home rather than a pure sci-fi design. I began to experiment with more inviting interior textures, and added warm wall papers and wood, cloth and leather. Something I’d be happy to live in myself in real life, a home away from home. As time went on I tried to “zero in” on a central theme without being repetitive.

CR: Whenever needed, I make custom textures for my airships. The Nereide required the greatest number of textures.

Making these textures was very time consuming. As of late I’ve been buying more and more textures in world to fit my projects. When I do, I always ask the creators if it’s ok for me to modify them to my needs first, as some have ULAs which prohibit that sort of stuff.

I will continue to make custom textures as the design warrants.

EH: What is the one thing you would EH: I have seen many of them in New like your airships to have that they do 57

Babbage. Is this one of your favorite steampunk places in Second Life?

What other regions do you like, and are your airships displayed?

CR: New Babbage is a wonderful and a dreamy place, and I’m honored that the ships are in that sim. New Babbage actually inspired me to eventually try and create something that’s more in line with a Victorian theme. I do visit Caledon sometimes which is also amazing and vast, and used to visit the Rivet Town and Ten Fathoms sims.

EH: Besides airships, please tell us a bit about other items you like to design.

CR: I also enjoy making architectural builds; I’d like to make a proper treehouse, and am working on a Japanese house for a friend right now.

I’m not very happy with my initial designs for the latter though; it will take a bit more time. I hope that my friend can be patient!

EH: Are they available for purchase at your store?

CR: Yes, all of my air ships are currently up for sale in my store in Dreamfall, and at three other places. The store helps offset the cost of owning an estate. I create things for the sim which then end up in the store, which in turn finances the tier and lets me continue to enjoy my sim.

58

The Nereide Flying Submarine hoists it’s balloon

EH: I see that your store has other items in it. What else do you build or design?

ns over New Babbage.

CR: Most of the other gadgets and items that are in my store were initially created for my own use. The security systems were a custom job. I ended

up putting it all in one place because without additional items, the store felt empty. I am hoping that as time goes by; my store will fit in with one particular 59

Eddi Haskell can be seen through the glass side portals of the Neriede flying submarine.

theme; I have a few in mind.

EH: Finally, if you could give some advice to anyone aspiring to be a designer on Second Life, what would it be?

CR: Build things that you would like to use yourself, and think about how form fits function. Don’t worry about experimenting. If you do hit a wall, go off and work on something else, and come back when you solve the problem, or inspiration returns. The most important thing here is to have fun; something that I loose sight of at times!

60

EH: Carrah, thank you so much for your time, and all your help with our complex cover shoot!

CR: Eddi, thank you for this great interview. And my thanks to The VR Style staff and readers for all their support!

Carrah Rossini’s airships can be seen and purchased at her shop, the Ananke Technologies Store in Dreamfall.

SLURL to Carrah’s Dreamfall/210/118/732

Store:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/

Eddi Haskell is a well known Second Life Photographer, and is VR Style’s Creative Director. He blogs at http://eddihaskell.com/, and maintains a separate landscape photography blog at http://haskellphotography.blogspot.com/.

Eddi did a You Tube video featuring Carrah’s airships which can be seen here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87Rr_CDuWDQ

61

Yours Truly, Ann SLanders

By: KathleenK Spitteler

Miss SLanders takes a lighthearted look at friendships, romance and how to deal with each other with more respect and humor in this wondrous world of SL. Dear Ms SLanders, I love my bf very much and we have had some great times together but my friends seem to be causing problems in our relationship. Every time we get together as a group, they start telling me that I deserve better. It’s not because he treats them poorly , quite the contrary. He is very courteous to them. He treats me with great respect. I don’t know what their problem is. Do you think, perhaps that they know something, I don’t? Maybe he’s got someone else and I’m just blind to what’s going on. I hate to be made a fool of but this really bothers me. I trust him but I’m beginning to wonder.

Shall I tell him that it’s time to part ways?

to my friends. This sounds to me like they might be jealous. It’s possible that they see how happy you are and want to spoil your relationship. I’m hoping this isn’t true but it can happen sometimes.

Be sure you ask your friends why they feel this way and make them be specific.

If they know something, that you should know, make them tell you exactly. I wouldn’t let them control your life this way.

Ms SLanders Dear Ms SLanders,

My gf is a very beautiful woman.

Every time we go out, there are many men who tell her how beautiful she is, compliment her dress, her hair and want to dance with her. I get tired of waiting to dance with her. She is very In Doubt friendly and I’m not sure if this isn’t Dear In Doubt, what she wants, all this attention. I’m I can see that you are worrying a lot. not the jealous type but this is really But if your bf treats you well and you getting tiresome. Shall I tell these had no doubts before, I wouldn’t listen 62

other men to buzz off or should I say something to her?

Too Many Times A Wall flower Dear Wall Flower, I think it’s time for you two to get away.

Go to a nice place where you can dance alone. Being alone with each other will do wonders for your relationship.

I know it’s hard to feel secure in your relationship when there are so many men after her but if you trust her, go with your feelings. You don’t want to spoil things by acting jealous. Tell her of your feelings for her. Women need that from time to time. I’m sure she will reciprocate.

Ms SLanders Dear Ms SLanders, I broke up with my bf almost 8 months ago. He told me he didn’t “really” love me. We had been going together for a long time and had expressed his feelings for me over and over. We got a long very well. We told each other all of our secrets and hurts. I trusted him with everything in my life. I feel like such a fool, but I so miss him. I know I should go on but I miss him so very much. I can’t seem to trust anyone any more. I feel I will never be able to have another relationship again. I just

63

don’t trust anymore. What can I do to but I guarantee that as time passes ,the get over this? Life just seems so lonely hurt will soften. Keep yourself busy with now. the things you know and love. Get back the passion you have for life. Involve Spinning my wheels. yourself in something new, something Dear Spinning, you have always wanted to do. I’m I know it seems impossible for you right sure the hurt you feel will fade as time now but I know things will get better passes. And as they say, what doesn’t eventually. Time has a way of healing. kill you will make you stronger.

Just put one foot in front of the other for now. Healing from this may take awhile Ms. SLanders

SL enthusiasts of all the punk genres of Science Fiction gather to party at Unzipped, http://slurl. com/secondlife/FairChang%20 Ampere%20Main/130/121/24.

It’s the norm to see clientele such as Industrial Steampunks, cyberpunks, gothpunks, dieselpunks and anything in between dancing to the multitude of music styles embraced by the science fiction following of the muti-genre DJ Diamanda Gustafson.

Gustafson, who has RL radio broadcasting experience, always has a good turn-out for her usual End of Week Blowout event at Unzipped.

With the various genres that come to her gigs, she attempts to dress to fit into the environment. Of her wardrobe she says, “I usually mash up a variety of outfits with either a Victorian or Steampunk element… top hats, goggles, pocket watches, ruffles, brocades, rivets, cogs, name it!

There’s a lot of shopping one can do in two years in SL, especially lately when more and more designers cater to the style.” Most of her gigs take place on steampunk sims, many being residential where she says, “They attend to attract a relevant crowd.”

The styles of music run the gamut from old gothic, industrial, to dark folk, folk-metal, folk-electro, new age, 68

Unzip

pped

Sci-fi “Punk” Club for All Genre By : Sherrie Shepherd

69

contemporary and celtic. Gustafson plays all of these in addition to some cabaret/vaudeville and even some symphonic metal. Of course, she doesn’t miss featuring tunes from Steampunk Bands like Abney Park.

Of her playlist she says, “I seldom stick within a genre during a gig, but I always aim for a solid transition.

It often depends on how the crowd reacts as to what turn my gig will take.” She’s found that her audience is open to a variety of musical styles especially when it features instruments outside the norm of a “standard rock band”; violins, brass, flutes, samplers, hurdy gurdy, etc.

Gustafson is a resident of the Independent State of Caledon, a Steampunk community, where, when not DJing, she is the Admiral of the Fleet of Caledon assisting role-players with naval encounter scenarios.

As well as the humorous banter that takes place in all clubs, you hear song requests asking for more from Abney Park, the Steampunk band, and Loreandlaw Lax who asks for the song from the Kirk and Spock fight.

Gustafson responds, “if you ask nicely, I’ll play Chet’s Speech from “From Dusk Till Dawn”… *smirks evilly*.” Another partier expresses his desire to look like Captain Picard. Thomus Keen, creator 70

of science fiction vehicles and weapons, chats about his latest creations. Lax then shouts “One of the best parties I’ve been to! Having a good time...

Twitter.” Unzipped Club host Shiloh Fouroux reminds the crowd to come back every Friday night between 8:00 and 10:00 p.m. SLT. DJing at Unzipped since its inception almost a year ago, Gustafson says, “It’s been a blast. Through my shows I’ve met a good number of very interesting people and that is by itself a great reward.”

Steam punk and the Victorian Era in Second Life Take Hold in the Regions of Caledon Photography by: Eddi Haskell

Eddi Haskell interviews Vicereine Kamilah Hauptman Desmond Shang from The Independent State of In English speaking countries including most notably the United States, and member nations of the British Commonwealth, the Victorian Era is generally used to refer to the period from 1837 -1901 when Queen Victoria ruled over an empire in which the sun never set. The great majority of the Steampunk genre actually invokes a Victorian age in which technologies were introduced at a much faster pace.

Although other historical figures (i.e.

Napoleon) may have shorter periods of time in which they are associated with, none have an era or age in which they are associated with so profoundly.

72

The image of Good Queen Victoria, rotund and humorless, and invariably wearing her widow’s veil since the sad death of her beloved Prince Albert in 1861, remain fixed in popular imagination in the western world.

Many Steampunk enthusiasts may adopt some of the moral and ethical codes (at least on the surface) in which Queen Victoria expected the higher classes of British society to live by. .The rule of then went something like thisdo whatever you want in private, keep it to yourself, and most importantly, don’t scare the horses. It is this genteel, yet lively ethos which permeates the polite public chatter and discourse of

many who wish their virtual world to take place in this era.

It was with this assumption in mind that I interviewed perhaps the two most important figures in Caledon, Vicereine Kamilah Hauptmann, and “Guvnah” Desmond Shang about the workings, background, and future of their independent state. My first interview was with Vicereine Kamilah, who seemed to have full plenipotentiary powers in fulfilling her vice regal mission:

e 49

Eddi Haskell: Can you tell our readers about your real life a bit?

Kamilah Hauptmann: Well, I’m a burnt out accountant on a semi-flexible life sabbatical. So far I’ve advanced sewing skills, learned more about cooking without burning the house down, and learned that being a merchant on Second Life is basically insane.

nn and Guvnah f Caledon Vancouver.

EH: Is Second Life your first virtual world?

KH: Second Life is my first 3D virtual world.

Before that I lacked the graphics capacity or interest in heavy graphics applications beyond the odd video game.

EH: How long were you in Second Life before you started building things? ,

EH: Do you have any formal design training?

KH: I’ve been studying Industrial Design in continuing education programs with Emily Carr University in

Caledon

KH: A month or so give and take. Before actually attempting to design something of value, I was experimenting with building in the Lost Furest sandbox, and met a lot of neat people who I still chat with today. I cut my teeth modifying things to fit a furry avatar such as hair and accessories,

EH: Your title is Vicereine. A Vicereine fills in for the King or Queen of the realm when he or she is not present. Who is the King or Queen of Caledon?

KH: That would be Victoria.

EH: What is her full avatar name? I want to interview her too. Is she also EH: What was the first thing you a furry? designed from scratch?

KH: No. Queen Victoria. Caledonians KH: A sleigh modeled after the carriages would accept no other.

I saw in Atlanta. I made a sleigh because EH: Oh, That Victoria! But she died scripting wheels was still a mystery to 100 years ago. me.

EH: What are you designing or building KH: Quoting a friend: “It is 1880! Queen KH: I’m working on a design for the Relay for Life. A dear friend who is a bit crazy is involved on the level where she’s the go to for designers. She roped me a full simulator. I’m working on something inspired by Fritz Lang’s Metropolis.

EH: How did you first get involved with Caledon?

KH: I was one of the original settlers in what was an interesting little experiment that somehow grew into a viable business for Desmond Shang. He’s as surprised as I am, really. It started with a mishmash of general anachronists, a few steampunks, a few goths, and myself, the sole furry, or as I represented myself, the last daughter of Doctor Moreau.

76

Interior of Gaiety Theatre in Caledon Penzance

now?

Victoria is alive and well!” In spirit at least, but a 100 year gap makes it hard to perform royal duties, so I fill in as Vicereine.

tossed about before. God Bless her, I still keep the helmet she gave me on my office desk, and wear it to Jaegerkin poetry readings.

EH: How long have you been Desmond said, “Kami’s is going t be Vicereine?

Queen!” I shot back, “No, we need to KH: Desmond Sheng actually first asked –talk-‘. It was then that we agreed I me to be the Queen of Caledon about should govern as Vicereine. three years ago. I was talking on more and more responsibilities here. I don’t remember the exact date, but I do remember the meeting.

EH: It all sounds so grand. What does your job as Vicereine entail?

KH: It’s a janitorial position, really. Prims left all over common areas? I zap them.

Desmond was with Kendra Bancroft in Idiots flinging prims? I zap them too. his mansion, I ambled by and introduced Aside from that I constructed an animated myself, having heard Kendra’s name system for Knighting, which I use on

Caledon Mayfair occasion when someone in Caledon does something particularly impressive, sacrificial and heroic. Two Knights of Caledon predate this, but I’ve knighted three more.

Boris for pushing Surfboy Wollongong into the pool. I am sure it is a lot of fun. Now, do you get to wear special jewelry or a crown? What about some sort of coronation?

I’ve also done a diplomatic junket or two, KH: I did wear a sort of tiara before a in essence, showing up at other estates’ decent sculpted lioness avatar arrived to market. I’ve not yet been inspired to important events. rework it for myself.

EH: I once knighted my pet Rottweiler 78

getting back to our issue at hand, what is the central them of Caledon.

KH: I can tell you that in one world.

Victoriana.

EH: How important is steampunk?

KH: Steampunkery is everywhere, but it is one of many subgenres. It is very pervasive, but it hasn’t completely taken over.

We’ve a forest full of tinies in Beatrix Potter style, we’ve a ludicrously large population of nekos, we’ve furries in top hat and cane, we’ve fairies we’ve pirates, we’ve sky pirates, we’ve steampunk sky pirates, we’ve steampunk neko sky pirates, we’ve multiple militia organizations, and a Navy- or is it two now? Our ninjas must be particularly good as I haven’t seen any.

All in all, the central theme is Victoriana, no matter how odd it becomes.

EH: Can you please tell our readers about some interesting businesses and events in Caledon, especially EH: Do you have a cool “royal wave” any that might appeal to Steampunk animation you can show our readers? devotees.

KH: I’m an animator and I cannot believe KH: One stop shopping at the Steampunk I haven’t done that yet. I suppose I’ve Resource Center, run that through been too busy making people fly like Search, you’ll get right there.

Peter Pan or Superman!

Kukulcan Retrostruct is a veritable EH: When you finally do make a royal furnishing store township in Port Caledon, wave, can you please contact me? I’ve just about every mad scientist layer been looking for one for a while. Now 79

University of Caledon Oxbridge view of library dome

82

gizmo you’ll ever need. You’ll also find one of Avariel Falcon’s Tesla Towers there.

The Iron Cloud at 500 meters in Caledon Middlesea is an interesting stop, you can’t miss it.

Caledon SteamSkyCity is a flying township with a good deal of interesting widgetry throughout the sim.

In the south side of the Caledon sim is Ordinal Malaprop’s place, she’s one of the original steampunks of Caledon and her shop’s been there since the beginning.

The Library in Caledon VictoriaCity is something to behold as well!

EH: Are there any plans for the future for Caledon?

KH: Ones that don’t involve a nondisclosure agreement? We’re largely in a wait and see mode right now given the bizarre land market in Second Life. Most of my energies are right now directed toward Relay For Life.

EH: What are your plans for the future in Second Life?

KH: Costuming in the SLCC (Second Life Community Convention).Aside from that, I’ve no real plans. I just take things as they come.

83

KH: And thank you for coming by Eddi!

After this interview, I wish I would have bought an animation that allows one to bow and walk backwards slowly when leaving the viceregal presence.

In fact, the Vicereine was probably the most royal acting persona I have ever met in person with the exception of my real life older sister in Connecticut who is a major Princess in her own right. I also must commend her for putting up with my rather tasteless at times sense of humor when inquiring if Queen Victoria is a furry in Second Life.

I then contacted the “Guvnah” of Clockwork detail in Caledon Calendon , Desmond Shang, for Steam SkyCity another view on how 49 Regions were consolidated into such a specific theme.

EH. Finally, if you could give some My interview continues below: advice to anyone who first entering Eddi Haskell : When did you first enter Second Life, what would it be?

SL and what did you do? How did you KH: If you want to become a merchant on Second Life, and dreams of supporting yourself solely on that as an income is basically insane. Treat Second Life as an opportunity to learn technical and soft skills you will need as 3D virtual worlds become ubiquitous. If you make a little cash on the side, good for you.

EH: Thank you so much for your time Vicereine Kamillah! And by the way this palace you have built is simply gorgeous!

84

get involved with Caledon?

Desmond Shang : I’ve been around here off and on since 2003. I started Caledon because my first business, West Trade Imports LTD, did pretty well and it was a natural progression from that.

EH: Is Second Life your first virtual world?

DS: I’ve been around a while and been almost everywhere for a little bit; my first virtual world might have been Airwarrior II, an online flight simulator

in the mid to late 90’s.

EH: How did you start Caledon? It is all very EH: What is the central theme impressive. of Caledon?

DS: Back in August 05, I started a tiny antiques DS: Steampunk Victoriana left business on the mainland, with the goal of a bit open to interpretation covering $25 US Dollars a month of tier. The as fantasy elements are quite plan was to ‘break even’ within a year. If I couldn’t do that, I’d forget the whole thing and allowed. stay on the 512 meters of mainland one gets EH: What sets Caledon apart with a premium account. from other areas in Second I made a few things and had some dismal sales, Life? but then a friend offered the use of some land DS: You know, in a lot of for a proper shop. Then things took off. From ways people everywhere are September to December 2005, my revenue much the same, regardless of grew to about $ 25,000 Linden a month. I community theme chosen. But we do seem to have a high Aerial Structure in Caledon Lionsgate proportion of literature lovers and people into whimsical, eccentric fun.

Few take themselves terribly seriously.

EH: When did Caledon start?

DS: Caledon started on 26 Feb 2006.

EH: How big is it?

DS: It is now 49 regions, roughly three million square meters and half a million prims.

EH: What is the business / residential mix?

DS: It varies, but it is now about 40% business, 60% residential.

View looking up at Caledon Steam SkyCity

gave my friend Garnet Psaltery a cut of profits. I was able to afford my own land, and had met my original goal.

In late February 2006, I was earning three times more than private island tier, and had saved up about $1500 USD. I then decided to buy my own island, and wanted to rent part of it. I was trying to determine who might rent. I was not sure if anyone would go for a roleplay theme that did not involve sex, gambling or “dark roleplay” themes. It turns out people were interested, and in the first two and a half years regions have been added at the rate of nearly two per month, on average.

EH: What are some of the more impressive builds in Caledon?

DS: I hardly want to touch this one, as we literally have dozens upon dozens and I don’t want to leave anyone out.

Clear ‘stand outs’ that must be seen include Persephone Gallindo’s Caledon Gaiety Theatre ,the Caledon Library system as a whole and Equine McMillan’s great Epona Gate Victorian Rail Bridge (replete with active rail line connecting to dozens of regions) that spans three regions in the south.

EH: What are some of the more impressive businesses?

Lionsgate Palace in Caledon Lionsgate

Muromachi’s Silver Rose clothiers, which has been with us since our first day, and Fizzworks in old Caledon (period weapons, musical instruments), and Lassitude and Ennui which sell clothes DS: Some of the more impressive and and fashion accessories. Others have longstanding businesses include Yuriko been bigger, but I mentioned these visionaries, since without them, none of 88

e the rest would have a Caledon to be builds to fall out. Steam Sky City, various entire regions like Port Caledon or in.

EH: Can you tell us about Steampunk Caledon Caer Firnas absolutely crackle with electrical energies and steam. in Caledon?

DS: If you could turn Caledon upside We have many activities, including a down a few shakes would cause about 19th century Navy. Caledon Library a dozen regions worth of steampunk features literary events constantly.

89

Rail Bridge in Caledon Greystoke

EH: Are you doing anything to assist Sideview of Caledon Steam SkyCity new residents? It can be so confusing for them.

DS: We now have a community gateway where people enter Second Life for the first time (Caledon Oxbridge) and where they can learn about the world, get some clothing and stay in a residence hall for free, for a bit. The road around our capital city’s downtown park is Garnet Street, in reference to the generosity of my friend toward the poor noob that I was in 2006.

EH: Do you have any future plans for Caledon?

DS: We have many, many plans. Our focus now is on quality and richness, rather than size. We are big enough. I could expand, sure, but becoming a 100’s of regions behemoth would water down future? the quality of the whole thing, nobody DS: Honestly, I think the right thing to do wants that. Instead, it’s about keeping is not to overreach. I want to do what I things awesome. am doing now well, and become a sort of Our recently relaunched Navy, our crossroads for the creativity that others collaboration with the Avaria regions have. With a little luck I expect to be with a huge exploration/crafting/ around for a long, long, long time. discovery game, and the Caledon EH: Finally, if you could give some Oxbridge new resident university are advice to anyone aspiring to be a all part of that effort. designer on Second Life, what would There’s a lot more to come, but I don’t it be? want to spoil the surprises. Please stay DS: Do what you love, and ignore the tuned! detractors. As long as there are free EH: What are your plans for the 92

Caledon comprises 49 regions and cannot be explored in just one day.

Each region has something unique to see. Here are SLURLs to some important locations in the Caledon Caledon Steam SkyCity: http:// slurl.com/secondlife/Caledon%20 Steam%20SkyCity/112/111/76 Steampunk Victorian Calendon Central Square (shopping): http://slurl.com/secondlife/ Caledon%20Victoria%20 City/128/130/25 Caledon Gaiety Theatre: http://slurl.com/secondlife/ Caledon%20Penzance/187/183/23 Caledon Library at the University Caledon Oxbridge; sandboxes to build and plan in, the only h t t p : / / s l u r l . c o m / true way to fail is to quit trying. Anyone s e c o n d l i f e / C a l e d o n % 2 0 with a can do attitude and a little bit Oxbridge/195/115/27 of focus has an aura of success about Lionsgate Palace- the Caledon them... at which point, it’s just a matter Viceregal “home””: of time. http://slurl.com/secondlife/ EH: Thank you Desmond for your time Caledon%20Lionsgate/118/87/22 today! And your efforts here are Lionsgate truly amazing! I am sure many of our readers who have not visited Calendon References and Publications: will want to see it for themselves.

There is an in-depth Caledon Wiki at DS: And thank you Eddi for taking the http://www.caledonwiki.com/index. time to speak with me today! And your php?title=Main_Page readers are always welcome to visit! There are several web blogs and web 93

View towards Gaiety Theater in Caledon Penzance publications which cover Steampunk in, and Caledon,in Second Life. Here are some of them: The Heliograph: http://voyagesofdrfabre.blogspot.com/ Royal Caledon Air Force Telegraph: http://theconnollytelegraph.blogspot.com/ Capt. Red Llewellyn: the Metaphysical Musings of a Merry Misanthrope: http://celtgrrl.blogspot.com/ About Eddi Haskell: Eddi Haskell is a well known Second Life Photographer, and is VR Style’s Creative Director. He blogs at http://eddihaskell.com/, and maintains a separate landscape photography blog at http://haskellphotography.blogspot.com/.

Eddi has his own YouTube channel with 40 videos, including three recent ones of the Steampunk genre:. http://www.youtube.com/eddihaskell

94

Model: Lanzer Cleanslate Outift: McPlaid Victorian Tailcoat Accessories : McPlaid Top Hat with Flip-up Goggles Shoes : “Mister Hyde” Oxford Style 98

Xcentricity with nix sands

99

BlakO Des o Blak Gal

Photo By:Ca Model : Iolejanana Chajit Outfit: Valhalla Lace Black-Purple Shoes : Laced-Spike Heel Boots 100

BlakOpal offers wearable art and sp gentlemen in Second Life. Drawing from inspirations, Miss BlakOpal Galicia and M infuse passion and adventure with just a New Babbage, you will find the comple and gowns for ladies and more.

Opal sign of kopal licia

arey DeCuir

pecialized pieces for both ladies and m neo-Victorian, gothic, and steampunk Mr. TriloByte Zanzibar create works that a dash of whimsy. At the main store in ete line of piratewear, menswear, corsets Model : Cort Parkin Outfit: Nighthawk Suit - Black Shoes : Two Buckle Shoes 101

102

Model : Nadia Felwitch Outfit: Shelly Gown - Green Shoes : Riveted Low Boots Model : Azerath Inglewood Outfit : Cogsworth Suit - Green Shoes : Two Buckle Shoes - Black Model: Tesan Lane Outfit : Cogsworth Suit - Gray Shoes : Two Buckle Shoes - Black Model : Glitter Bolissima Outfit : Shelly Gown - Black Steel Shoes : Lace Spiked Heels Boots Model : Lanzer Cleanslate Outfit : Cogsworth Suite - Brown Shoes : Two Buckle Shoes - Brown Model : Ariel Lingiuan Outfit : Shelly Gown - Red Rusted Shoes : Riveted Low Boots

103

July arrives as a celebration of summer well under way. Work becomes a nuisance that gets in the way of play.

Evenings arrive balmy. Weekends seem to fly by, crammed with trips to the beach or amusement parks, backyard barbecues and patio parties, camping and spas and getaway retreats. In short, the zest for living overflows.

the other, a challenge that has serious implications.

In the United States, the Fourth of July marks one of those seminal moments in the social, political and economic evolution of civilization—the day in 1776 when a group of men proclaimed to the world that rights belong to the individual. By declaring their independence, they directly challenged any authority that would trample rights.

As reported in Melbourne, Australia, based newspaper, The Age, the government would use a filtering plan that would extend the ban on games that do not meet the nation’s MA15+ standard— those with excessive violence or sexual content.

Of course, declaring one’s independence and claiming individual rights do not, by themselves, transform society. Nothing is as fragile as people’s hold on their rights. Even as inroads are made worldwide on helping people gain rights that are inalienably theirs, new challenges arise, especially when it comes to the Internet.

This has many people fearful of the future for World of Warcraft and Second Life in Australia.

The more serious challenge comes from the Australian government’s impending effort to block Web sites But July also arrives as another kind that host or sell video of celebration—one of independence games not suitable for 15 year olds. and individual rights.

Part of the problem, as reported in The Age, is that Australia is the only developed country that does not have an R18+ classification system for games.

This means the games must conform to the stricter MA15+ standards or they Two examples come to mind—one, a receive a “refused classification” rating false challenge that has little merit; by the Australian Communication and 106

Rights and Censorship Commentary By : Aristippus Larsson

107

Media Authority. As such, those games thus come under customs controls and cannot be imported into Australia for sale in stores.

The free flow of information keeps society healthy, but Australia’s effort to block informational Web sites based on their content amounts to censorship in its most blatant and dangerous form.

People can disagree on issues. People can refuse to look at anything that does not conform to their own preconceived biases. But when government steps in to make that decision for individual, it tramples the rights of all.

Currently, online-only games are not classified in Australia because of their strictly online nation, Mark Newton, an ISP engineer and Internet filtering critic, to The Age. Without that exemption, “it’d only take one game user anywhere in the world to produce objectionable content in the game environment to “Censorship” applies only what a make the Australian government ban government does to impede the free the game for everyone.” flow of information; it does not apply Whether World of Warcraft and to anything else. As long as one person Second Life will come under the new can get his or her message out, no filtering process remains uncertain. censorship occurs. Which is why the Nine Internet service providers are other so-called challenge to rights, the tracking the Australian government’s introduction of an adult-only continent in trials of its filtering plan. Results of Second Life and restricting excessively those trials will be released in July violent and overtly sexually themed and that should give a clearer picture areas to that content, has little merit. of how online-only gaming will fare.

First, Linden Labs is not a government, it is a business and has every right to dictate the terms under which people may use the service it provides. People are free to come and go as they please. If they do not like the rules under which they must use Second Life, they are free to go elsewhere.

The challenge here is not just to World of Warcraft and Second Life, but to the rights of mature Australians to seek information they want. Ostensibly created to prevent minors from inappropriate content or to stop the spread of child pornography sites, the refused classification listing includes Second, the introduction of Zindra, anti-abortion, fetish and Web sites the adult-only continent, does not ban containing pro-euthanasia materials. excessively violent or overtly sexually themed areas. It merely provides a 108

place for these themed areas to thrive, without causing ill will or drama between neighbors. Just people in real life do not want a store that sells pornography across the street from a school, people in Second Life do not want to have a PG type area right next to one in which people cavort sexually in an openair atmosphere.

Third, the “this is the Internet and I should be able to do whatever the hell I wish” attitude comes from a childish view. One person’s right to do what they wish ends when it conflicts with another’s rights. Linden Labs could have merely banned excessively violent and overtly sexually themed areas. Instead, it chose to accommodate all Second Life residents.

The real danger to rights comes from the Australian government’s censorship plans. That is something Second Life residents should keep uppermost in their minds no matter how they celebrate the Fourth of July in world, whether at a PG-rated, old-fashioned picnic or with an adult-only orgy on a beach,

109

b b a B w e N k n u p P m a e t S Aie Shepherd

r r e h S : y B

Aerial view over New Babbage 110

: e g a b l e l l v e k r s a a H i d M d k s By: E

o t o Ph

111

New Babbage, http://slurl. c o m / s e c o n d l i f e / B a b b a ge % 2 0 Square/85/219/108, was founded in January 2007 by Shaunathan Sprocket, the first mayor of New Babbage, and is named for the Victorian era inventor Charles Babbage. It is a sooty brick and iron industrial City-Nation of the Steampunk imagination, loosely based on the era of 1830 to 1890 and inspired by the works of authors Jules Vern and H.G. Wells. New Babbage is full of engineering wonders and architectural marvels. It encompasses seven sims that together epitomize Industrial Steampunk living from the smoggy urban cluster of industrial utility companies, to the shopkeepers catering to the fashions, furniture and accessories of the Steampunk science fiction genre, to the port and airship docks, to the public places of governing and entertainment. However, more importantly, New Babbage has a network of close knit residents and a culture of community rich in the elements of a Role-Play (RP) society possessing Victorian manners and 19th century sensibilities. It’s not unusual to cross paths with mad scientists and sky pirates, street urchins and burlesque queens as you stroll down the streets and dark alleys where you’ll encounter

112

The Obolensky Observatory, in the Vernian Sea in New Babbage.

113

Aerial view over Port Babbage

Airship at New Babbage Airport

tattoo parlors and absinthe dens.

Mr. Mosseveno Tenk, the current mayor of New Babbage, regards his most important duties being to ensure that RP does not get out of hand and to enforce the building code. He boasts that many Babbagers are extremely

116

professional RPers with one storyline lasting longer than a year. The history of New Babbage, as told by Mr. Tenk, is that of a rebellious child of Caledon, another popular Steampunk community.

As the story goes, Mayor Sprocket had been an administrator in Caledon.

After some artistic differences over

as can be observed by the numerous smokestacks and chimneys found there.

Although there is no central architect, New Babbage remains true to being built by its residents. Mr. Tenk attributes New Babbage’s authentic look to the talents of builders like Reisuki Kojima, who built the underwater city in the Vernian Sea, and Greg Merryman, Rip Wirefly and Finley Twine for the shipyards in Iron Bay where Mr. Tenk contends, “You’ll find the finest ironclads on the grid.”

perceptions of Steampunk, Sprocket and a small loyal group set about founding New Babbage, their names engraved on a plaque in the heart of New Babbage City Hall. At its core, New Babbage was founded to be a city of builders with a perspective toward a grittier take on steampunk

A visit to New Babbage finds the community in upheaval due to the kidnapping of their mayor, Mr.Tenk, more commonly known around town as the Clockwinder. Mr. Tenk is a gentle soul of diminutive stature who is a long term resident of New Babbage. His habit is to work mostly at night, winding the clocks and repairing gadgets for the community. The villainous Doctor Obolensky lured the kindly Mr. Tenk with the promise of sour milk, a particular favorite and weakness of Mr. Tenk’s. Instead, he has been held captive by a rag tag mob of pirates loyal to the evil Doctor Obolensky. The dastardly Doctor has set his ‘smashy’ electrostatic guards all about the town to intimidate the residents into submission. Babbagers are standing firm against their captors and have 117

To-a-T ~ Victorian Couture at Port Babbage

Sculpture in the Mermaid Arcade at Port Babbage 122

launched search parties to retrieve their leader. Posters of encouragement can be found throughout the town with such sayings as “Do not despair Babbagers, Clockwinder will be found. As we speak, our patriots scour the shores for signs of our leader”, “Defend your homes, join the Babbage Volunteer Militia”, “Rebels of Babbage stay true, our leader will one day return”, and, of course, “Down with Doctor O”.

Visitors to New Babbage have several options to explore the city. Upon arrival, a HUD is available for those who wish to take the walking tour.

Trolleys stand at the ready for those who wish to take advantage of the rail line that runs through the city while boat rides are available through the canals that intersect the town. On this evening, in the absence of Mr. Tenk, Mr. Aeolus Cleanslate, Maceholder of New Babbage, conducts the tour. The Maceholder by legend guards the city from tyranny. Mr. Cleanslate is here by the grace of good fortune since he was skillfully able to avoid capture himself upon returning on the Airship Columbia from a diplomatic mission and finding the airship tower under siege. Mr. Cleanslate is also a merchant, owning the Cleanslate Emporium selling miscellaneous Steampunk merchandise and an architect, owning CLEANSLATE. 123

Steampunk Power Generation

Continuing the tour via trolley Mr. Cleanslate points out the grand Hotel Excelsior with lavish rooms to rent. When approaching the stately City Hall, we discover it is currently under siege.

Moving swiftly away we come upon the elegantly designed New Champagne Rooms. Owner and Manager Miss Ahnyanka Delphin explains that she opened the establishment to create a forum for an act that was sultry and yet still had class, that being Burlesque.

She recalls, “I’ve always loved vintage burlesque... and was surprised when I 126

Would Giant Valves (Vacuum Tubes) Generate Electricity in the Steampunk Era?

Architect. The tour begins at the airship tower where a bird’s eye view of the city lies before you. Mr. Cleanslate suggests the best environmental setting for New Babbage is “blizzard” in order to experience the foggy eerie atmosphere of an industrial city of the Victorian era. We happen upon an urchin, Master Skyler Pooley, who keeps the airship tower operating for the convenience of the residents docking their airships. When asked why he came to New Babbage, he said, “Well I have always loved history and the Victorian Period. I also like machinery and airships and when I came to New Babbage with a friend it had all of those things in one. In addition, they are also very welcoming of us urchins here.”

came to SL because most of the clubs that professed to be “burlesque” were little more than modern strip clubs.

None of them truly had the level of showmanship that I consider central to the art form.” Miss Delphin has two locations, the main location on Jersey Island, running four shows a week, focuses on vintage burlesque where the topless dancing is all about the art of seduction with choreographed routines that draw the audience in using animations, emotes and witty banter.

Her Babbage Square location has monthly events, and is a vaudevillian theater rather than burlesque. There events showcase various forms of performance art. She gives examples of the performances there, “We’ve had everything from fire eaters.. to synchronized swimming merfolk..to belly dancers.”Miss Delphin says of her guests, “They’re very appreciative and enjoy the immersive quality of the events. Most of them like to come to relax and unwind. It’s also a popular date destination. We welcome couples and anyone who is willing to have fun and respect everyone around them. I want to give them a chance to enjoy themselves and get lost in the moment. ” Always looking for new talent, Miss Delphin said, “We’re looking for new burlesque dancers as well as fun and

127

Steampunk Ray Gun at New Babbage Airport

interesting performance art. We’re even looking forward to having some musicians from outside of SL come and share their music… an exciting new venture! “ Rug merchant Mr. Morty Rau, is kind enough to offer a cup of tea and some conversation while we stop to admire his lovely rugs. Mr. Rau tells us that “this shop is my pride and joy.” He explains that he came to New Babbage as a street seller carrying his rugs on his back. The kindness of the community is evidenced by Miss Canolli Capalini, owner of Capalini Fine Furnishings, who took pity on Mr. Rau and as he said, “gave him full resources to begin his business.”

He gives his opinion of New Babbage when he says, “New Babbage is a pearl of the Role-play cities. It sure is a beautiful and living conjunction with the balls, and they wonder. The folk are tailor-made of have been wildly popular. We will be fine gentlemen and beautiful ladies.” continuing them to uphold our tradition as a city of builders.”

Our last stop is at Piermont Landing, owned by Miss Breezy Carver. The Mr. Cleanslate contends that, “one of Landing is the premier venue for the things that makes New Babbage special events in New Babbage. Miss really work is that so many people Carver’s monthly balls are always well invest so much on a “consistent” basis; attended and benefit SL Relay for Life. RP, builds, events. There’s never a dull Mr. Tenk has said of Miss Carver, “Miss zone.. when nothing is going on. It’s Carver single-handedly changed what makes a community a success. our social scene with her monthly There are so many clever people doing balls at Piermont Landing. We have above average things. It’s a place added monthly build competitions, in apart from SL in so many ways.”

130

Mr. Aeolus Cleanslate, Maceholder of New Babbage Amazingly, Mr. Tenk was able to smuggle a message out to the SL community. He beckons them to, “Come visit! Don’t let the 19th Century attire scare you off. We have tourists come visit in mainland attire all the time (although we do wonder why they don’t freeze to death in winter). Do come in winter, our cityscape takes on a new face under snow.” He also reassures SLers that RP at New Babbage is 100% optional. He recommends viewing Loki Eliot’s machinima on YouTube and to be sure to see over a full search page

on New Babbage as well, http:// www.youtube.com/results?search_ query=new+babbage&searc h_ type=&aq=f.

In addition, New Babbage has a very active Ning page at http://newbabbage,ning.com.

About Eddi Haskell: Eddi Haskell is a well known Second Life Photographer, and is VR Style’s Creative Director. He blogs at http:// eddihaskell.com/, and maintains a separate landscape photography blog at http://haskellphotography.blogspot. com/.

Eddi has his own YouTube channel with 40 videos, including three that feature his photo montages of New Babbage. Link: http://www.youtube.com/eddihaskell New Babbage, A Second Life Steampunk Community: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=-WEKOc5Y5_8 New Babbage - Scenes from the Airport: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=kh6Dpc4BxUY Carrah Rossini’s Amazing Airships: http:// www.youtube.com/watc h?v=87Rr_ CDuWDQ

131

New Babbage Excelsior Hotel

do the survey over, I would not have asked the question “which one real life person would you like to spend a romantic evening with”. For many DJ’s, as for many people who attend the clubs, the end result is one The gay clubber is a monthly feature in and the same.

VR Style Magazine which focuses on the Since many clubs are now opening and clubs, personalities, and events which, when closing at such a rapid pace, please check combined, make up the red hot Second with the DJ’s surveyed to see if they have Life gay club scene. In this issue, and the added any clubs to their schedule if you upcoming August issue, we conducted a short want to hear them play. We at VR Style survey of the background and interests of feel that they are all spectacular in doing some of the the DJ’s who make the scene such a great job and letting us dance and the lively place that it is. We sent over 50 socialize while listening to some really great questionnaires, and had over 30 responses tunes. We are going to be adding some DJ in a two week period. This was double the profiles like this in future issues of the Gay response we though we had initially, so we Clubber, so if you are a DJ on the gay club decided to run responses in order that they scene, contact me inworld with a note card came back to us, and break this extensive if you want to be profiled. We will do our survey into two parts. best to run as many as we can.

Some editing was done for consistency. But Thanks for reading, Eddi the final results are interesting. If I had to

136

137

138

139

140

141

142

143

144

145

146

147

148

149

150

151

152

153

Gardens and Concepts in Secon By: KathleenK Spitteler

FOREST FEAST Stroll through the flowers. Meander down garden paths, past fountains and little cottages. This is the garden called Forest Feast. Climb the tree house.

Stand on a cliff, overlooking the ocean. The great beauty here will overwhelm the senses. There are fields of every kind of flower to be enjoyed here.

For those of you who love flowers and beautiful gardens, fantasy and romance, stroll the many paths around this garden. But I think the most beautiful part is 156

nd Life

the view of the ocean. You can almost feel the wind in your hair, as the sea breezes caress you. Get lost in a pine forest so dark, you might not think you will ever find your way out. But then you do and walk into another sunlit field of flowers,so beautiful, it takes your breath away.

Inside this walled garden exists all the makings of a magical day or evening of enchantment with a friend or loved one.

157

Giverny Just like the gardens of France, Giverny welcomes you to a magical land of colors and flowers. Wander down paths lined with flowers and little shops filled wonderful little delights.

When Monet and his family settled in Giverny in 1883 the piece of land sloping gently down from the house to the road was planted with an orchard and enclosed by a high stone wall. A central alley bordered with pines separated it into two parts. Monet had the pines cut down, keeping only the two yews closest to the house to please Alice.

The land is divided into flower beds where flower clumps of different heights create volume.

The central alley is covered over by iron arches on which climbing roses grow.

Other roses cover the balustrade along the house. At the end of the summer, Giverny gard nasturtiums invade the soil in the central too damaged to be saved. It had to be alley. rebuilt. The wisterias have been planted In the water garden you will find the by Monet. famous Japanese bridge, covered with With the passing years he developed a wisteria’s. passion for botany, exchanging plants Always looking for mist and with his friends. Always on the look out transparencies, Monet would dedicate for rare varieties, he bought young himself less to flowers than to reflections plants at great expense. “All my money in water, a kind of inverted world goes into my garden,” he said. But also transfigured by the liquid element. “ I am in raptures”.

Monet had the Japanese bridge built by local craftsman. By the time the In 1893, ten years after his arrival garden was restored, the bridge was at Giverny, Monet bought a piece of

158

den and Claude Monet ( inset ) neighboring property, with a small brook. Monet had the first small pond dug, even though his peasant neighbors were opposed. They were afraid his strange plant’s would poison the water.

Later on the pond would be enlarged to it’s present size. The pond was full of asymmetries and curves. It was inspired by the Japanese gardens that Monet knew from the prints he collected. In the water you will find the Japanese bridge covered with wisteria.

Never before had a painter so shaped his subjects in nature. And so he created his works twice. Monet would find his inspiration in his garden for more than twenty years.

Visit Giverny and see what Claude Monet painted in his garden.

159

Fashion Designer Destany Laval’s love of Sci-Fi, and especially Industrial and Classic Victorian Steampunk fashions, has resulted, in large part, to establishing that science fiction genre as a thriving lifestyle in SL. Her fashions are available at her store Unzipped, http://slurl.com/ secondlife/FairChang%20Ampere%20 Main/130/121/24, where her clientele flock to clothe themselves in the unique, beautiful, yet outrageous creations so desired to achieve the realization of their role-play (RP) adventures.

Destany Laval...

Telling Stories T

Laval came to SL in June of 2007 already having a passion for all things Steampunk.

With an RL background in Multi-Media, teaching University courses in Photoshop and Web-Design, she was well equipped to design clothing in SL. Her incentive to be a designer started with her personal desire to wear Steampunk fashions in-world.

As luck would have it, Laval met up with Thomus Keen, who shared her enthusiasm for Steampunk and was also looking for appropriate clothing and accessories in order to ‘look the part’. Neither was successful in finding what they sought and decided to experiment with a few designs for their own use. As their experimenting continued, they found themselves realizing their personal dream of designing the perfect clothing and 160

By: Sherrie S Photos by: Ca

accessories. They also discovered a perfect team dynamic that propelled them forward, she focusing on the clothing and he, with a background in 3D design, focusing on matching accessories, boots, goggles, parasols, walking canes, pistols, watches and more.

ThroughHer Designs

Shepherd arey DeCuir

What has evolved is a professional collaboration in Classic and Industrial Steampunk designs. Industrial Steampunk incorporates the characteristics of the industrial era with clothing, accessories and even hair adorned with mixed metals, cogs and steam.

Expanding further, her collection exhibits a convergence in genres and styles to include the Nocturnum line, which combines Steampunk elements with a vampire feel. Other designs are reminiscent of a post-apocalyptic environment similar to a “Mad Max” scenario complete with armor and weapons.

When Laval starts the process of design, she first envisions a story. She explains, “It’s like having a story-line in my mind. I guess that’s why role-players love them (her designs) because they can add their own story-line.

It’s all imagination. I just imagine, and then create.” Going further, she says, “What I try to do is imagine myself in an era.. what materials I would have.. how best to use them.”

She likes her ensembles to portray the strength of those who wear them. She maintains that 161

162

through her creations, “All the women appear strong, independent, depicting the past to the future, yet also sexy. The men… always strong, fighters, protectors.”

Laval strives to imagine and create more and more additions to the already expansive collection. However, she doesn’t skimp on customer service in the meantime. Both she and Keen understand the customer is the reason for their success and they’ve employed a top-notch Store Manager and Customer Service Representative in the person of Shiloh Fouroux. Fouroux works four to five hours a day and prides herself on giving the best customer service possible. She says, “We have a lot of regular customers who visit the store every week and I’m on a first name basis with all of them.” She feels it’s important for Laval and Keen to focus on creating new products for the store. Therefore, Fouroux takes her job seriously and due to her background in various RP communities, she has the ability to relate to each customer in the RP of their preference. She muses that, “some come in as families and treat me as the “local shopkeeper.”

The future shines bright for Laval as she builds upon her amazing product line providing only the best in Science Fiction RP fashions for her anxiously awaiting fan base.

Models : Glitter Bolissima and Cort Parkin Clothes : Crimson Victorian - Female and Male The outfit is best worn with the accessories designed by Destany Laval’s partner Thomus Keen, including the boots and Armor.

Accessories includes a parasol and hat for the female and a top hat and cane for the male.

Both are good with the dagger, rifle, pistol and goggles, for that steampunk look of the victorian combined with the sci-fi flare.

163

Steampun Thomus K

http://slurl.com/se Main/130/121/24 evidence to the vari From his neo-classic Steampunk enthusias and combat sim rea bikes, monster truck ultimate means to a science fiction role-p Reactor Whip give close combat by ba an air born Post-Ap navigate through op Cannon is a popular a hybrid based on virtual combat game

Creator Thomus Keen combines science fiction themes to design accessories, vehicles and weapons for the enjoyment of SLers engaged in various science fiction fantasy and role-play (RP) life styles.

Keen’s showroom of vehicles at his store, Steam Powered Nuts, 164

Another critical crea with clothing design at a social hang out was already an experienced clothing de fiction and their creative backgrounds re Steampunk Clothing outfits thinking that “underdog of fashion” that they both hel that each would focus on what they did be based on his experience creating 3D o Unzipped, co-located with Keen’s Steam Classic Victorian Steampunk fashions but h

supporting futuristic and fantasy combat RP life styles.

Keen creates the accessories appropriate for each of the fashions designed by Laval.

His highly detailed boots, top hats, holstered pistols, spectacles, scripted parasols and walking canes, watches, jewelry, armor, swords and crossbows are all created with each of Laval’s matching fashions in mind.

The imagination that comes through in his creations and the quality of his work were recognized in October 2008 when he was awarded Best Clothing or Wearable Item at the Rivet Town Inventor’s Expo for his Steampunk Rogue Utility Belt and his Steampunk Brass Gear Boots.

nk and Beyond ...

Keen the Sci-Fi Creator

econdlife/FairChang%20Ampere%20 4, gives iety of science fiction genre he caters to. cars, suitable as a novelty for Victorian sts, through his lines of advanced, armed ady vehicles, such as airships, choppers, ks, tanks and ATVs, he delivers the achieve the fantasy and adventure that players desire. His Skimmer II Board and combat RPers the option to engage in alancing themselves upon his version of pocalyptic hover board able to nimbly pen or urban environments. His Reactor r weapon with his clientele. It represents weapons found in various established Keen, a gaming industry professional es. in RL, was invited into SL in 2006, along ative avenue for Keen is his collaboration with other industry professionals, to ner, Destany Laval. A chance encounter be part of the newly formed Second t brought Keen together with Laval who Life Developers, SLDEV. SLDEV esigner. Their shared interest in science was and is a group invited into SL esulted in them experimenting with some in order to use it as a whiteboard t they could give a kick-start to the SL for design ideas. Keen immediately ld in high regard. Soon they determined recognized SL as representing the est; she on clothing and he on accessories future of game development, a 3D objects. Laval ‘s designs, available at virtual cooperative development m Powered Nuts store, continue to focus on platform. Sometime later, and as have as well expanded to include fashions a result of forging collaboration 165

with Laval, he decided to design science fiction genre boots and accessories because he wanted these things himself and couldn’t find them in SL at the time. Another reason was as he says, “it allowed me to explore areas outside of my real profession, which is Senior Environmental Design.” His latest design work can be seen in an Xbox360 and Nintendo WII game called “Another Night at the Museum.”

His venture into creating vehicles and weapons evolved based on his background as a Senior/Lead Programmer at Microsoft Gaming Studios. He feels this background gave him the foundation to easily pick up the scripting language within SL. While scripting is key to creating gadgets and vehicles, he also knows that a basic understanding of Physics is required. In his own case, he explains, “The most Physics I worked with were “ball physics” in Microsoft Golf, but that was enough to help me conceptually understand the implementation of physics within Second Life, within the Havok4 engine.”

166

Quality is a hallmark of his creations and he uses a method called texture baking to give the authentic look to his product line. Speaking of the process he says, “Some of the most time consuming steps involve the creation of textures from scratch, every set has textures that do not exist anywhere else. They are made for just that set. Many hours of dedication goes into every piece.”

Of the convergence of science fiction themes you see in his designs he says, “It has always been a fascination of mine, to converge themes.” He cites as an example, an animated steamworks themed interface he created for the Everquest game years ago. He remembers that, “I knew I could make the “Steampunk” style interface work because of the Gnome “tinkerer” race in the fantasy world of Norrath.” Having that confidence behind him, and discovering a broader foundation to further hybridize and converge different styles together in SL, he successfully executed the concept by taking the “mechanical” aspect of Steampunk and infusing other styles in the mix, like cyberpunk and

Models : Azerath Inglewood & Nadia Felwitch Clothes : Victorian Regal for Male and Female complete with accessories 167

fantasy.

His own dreams, along with the input of ideas from friends, and his fascination with science fiction magazines as a child are what inspires his creations.

He also feels fortunate that he discovered 3D digital art which he says, “gave me a way to put my dreams out there for everyone to see. I figured people would either like it, or think I was nuts (or both).” No one thinks this creative genius is “nuts”. In fact, his product line is much in demand

by SL science fiction fans. While his armor sets are very popular, due in part because he includes weapons with them, he says that his X1 Bike Is most popular because, “it has that cool “Terminator Salvation PostApocalyptic” feel to it.” His ever popular Reactor Cannon is now up to version III. Keen is customer friendly and for the majority of his products, he provides free updates for life.

A new fashion line soon to be released through the collaboration of Keen and Laval will fuse a Celtic theme with Steampunk. Looking to the future, Keen would like to 168

Mode Clothes

create a line of highly detailed brass and wood 19th Century Steampunk Airships for flight and for habitation.

Looking back, Keen feels that he and Laval have made a significant contribution to keeping the Steampunk genre alive in SL. He reflects, “it was a genre that was seemingly dead (in SL), but is now bigger than it ever was in Second Life.” While it was a risky investment for Keen and Laval to take on, and requires a sacrifice of their time and effort, he thanks the dedicated SL RPers and Steampunks for the success that he and Laval have realized. He thinks other SLers interested in creating and building should have the courage to make what they envision and not simply create products for the masses. Keen offers, “I believe that dedication to any art will have positive results.”

els : Tesan Lane and Iolejanana Chajit s : Nocturnum III for Male and Female with accessories 169

170

Models : Ariel Lingiuan and Lanzer Cleanslate Clothes : Tesla I for Male and Female with Armors and accessories

171

A sc

Eddi Haskell interviews Jarrod Jonathan Schenkel from Club B Photography by Eddi Haskell 174

cene from Club Blaze’s packed opening.

Fitzpatrick and Blaze

Eddi Haskell sits down with Jarrod Fitzpatrick & Jonathan Schenkel, owners of Club Blaze which formally opened to a packed house on May 30.

Eddi Haskell interviews Jarrod Fitzpatrick and Jonathan Schenkel from Club Blaze ------------Eddi Haskell: Can you tell our readers a bit about yourselves?

Jarrod Fitzpatrick: I’m from Southern New Jersey in the United States and am 22 years old. I own a small business- an interior design shop. I sell home décor and gift items.

EH: Cool! You’re an interior decorator from New Jersey then? Did you study interior desgin?

JF: I did at one time. At the Sheffield School of Design in California. I was part of the distance learning program with them.

Jonathan Schenkel: Wow I’m learning a lot tonight.

EH: Who does your logo? It’s great. I

175

really like that ad you did.

JF: I do them.

EH: Did you study interior design I’m really impressed! Jon, let’s get to you now. You are from Canada, I believe.?

JS: Yes, I’m from Vancouver, British Columbia Canada. Jarrod does excellent club promotions by the way.

EH: Which part?

JF: The sexy Canuck part!

JS: I live in the beautiful East Side of Vancouver, I work in the area operating a child care centre for 25 children aged 5 – 12.

EH: I love Vancouver. You are very lucky! Now, one thing I have noticed about the gay club scene in Second life is how many new clubs there are, and how many closings there are. Why has Blaze been a success?

JF: I can answer that. The very first thing that Jon and I agreed to is that Blaze would not be the typical club.

EH: Don’t you think club owners argue?

JF: I won’t speak for other club owners, but Jon and I do not argue!

We work together toward a common goal and discuss with our staff how to accomplish that.

JS: Yes! Communication is a very big part of what we do at Blaze.

Without talking and communicating we would get nothing done and would end up in arguments.

EH: Why start a club? It is so expensive, and such a huge amount of work?

JS: Well I feel that everyone has the passion to take on a club of their own - express themselves and PARTY. But as a business model it’s important to have long term planning to be able to have staying power. Not work tier payment to tier payment, but believe that you can work towards a first, second, and third year anniversary.

JF: I did it for the hot bois!!!!

EH: ahahahahah! love it

176

JF: truthfully... Blaze is a vision that I have always had. Really a place to hang out, a place to have fun for friends to meet. Sure it’s a lot of work! But nothing ventured nothing gained! We don’t view Blaze as a typical club so don’t try to put us in the typical club model because we are not.

EH: So you actually had a planning session where you discussed goals and stuff?

JF: Of course!

Club Blaze owners Jonathan Schenkel and Jarrod Fitzpatrick and Eddi Haskell

177

JS: Yes. We meet regularly.

EH: What were the goals?

JF: To develop a place where people can come and have fun. Hear awesome music from new and established DJs. And, to hopefully be able to make a difference in the community through our work.

JS: Another part was to have a unique venue that wasn’t already represented – and that was welcoming.

EH: How is your venue unique?

JF: Sexy fire fighters!

JS: Well originally we discussed something completely natural, and we toured around to see what was already on the grid. We found that our personal fantasy hadn’t been fulfilled - the Hot fire fighters!

So we made the dream a reality.

EH: I thought you guys catered to a neko crowd.

JS: Everyone is welcome. We have a Surftboy Kanya, Warren Shepherd, and O hugely diverse group that come to the a charity to help out. With our work we loo events. basis.

JF: And boys from GOR to Furries- we Eddi Haskell: Jarrod, as a DJ, do you se have them all.

JS: It is coming into its own as a club? community JF: Our music direction comes from our ama EH: Do you think you will ever make what to play, because let’s face it there is w there already. money?.

JS: It’s not about the money - but through EH: Who are your regular DJ’s? our work we look to make money. And JF: We currently we have 2 Amazing house DJ once that happens we hope to take on - aka Sawa Amiot and DJ Kahlen, aka Kahle

178

ok to run on a cost recovery

et the music direction of the

azing DJs. We don’t tell them way too much Lady Gaga out

J’s besides myself. DJ Thirteen en Parx.

JF: Boy if I knew that I would not be here. Do you ever dream, Eddi? That’s what opening a club is.

JS: My thought- It’s hard to work alone, and you have to work twice as hard to work in collaboration with a partner or team. But once everyone is on board with the idea and what you want to achieve it just moves along and people

Carl Wilder is burning hot as usual at the Club Blaze opening.

Owen Jacobus

Eddi Haskell: So here is what I am trying to determine. If so many new clubs are opening on the gay scene, and so many are closing, why are people still opening clubs?

are attracted to the sight of it

Eddi Haskell: And you develop a club form

JS: I don’t think there is a magic formula. I’v and listening to what your community wan them with something they LOVE

EH: What was the first club that you owned

Club Blaze DJ and owner Jarrod Fitzpatrick

JF: I started talking with a few friends that I opening a club. It was called the Bamboo B JS: My first club was in my living room. I invi JF: Hahah! oddly so was mine!

JS: I know that I wanted to have my own litt JF: I wanted hot boys on my sim!

JS: I worked with my partner at the time to experience. When I moved on from there Jar we found our skills complemented each othe JF: I took some staff with me and went about at Blaze are still with me from my very early dancer!

JS: Wow, true followers! Dancers are the bes

180

EH: Where do you want to take Club Blaze

JF: Wrings his hands together and laughs w SL!” JS: A goal for the club would be to move to are asking for. We do have plans for expansio JF: ll Jon hit the nail on the head. Moving to our customer base. Jon can amend this if it’ and customers build the club.

JS: I agree! Here here!

JF: Otherwise we are a cookie cutter of som want.

EH: Thanks for coming and sharing your vis

JS: And thank you Eddi! We both enjoyed ta

mula?

ve tried to work it out. It’s working together nts for their enjoyment - and then surprising

d?

I lived on a sim with, and we decided to try Beach club. ited friends over,

tle place to party

o open Club Thunder, which was an amazing rrod helped me out a lot and through talking er so we started Club Blaze t it on my own. Actually, some of the people y clubs. Tithe my husband... yes I married my

st!

e?

a full sim, to develop the community people on as our community grows. o larger and larger spaces, and growing with ’s wrong. We don’t build the club. Our staff

meone else. And that is the last thing that we

sion with our readers guys!

alking to you and your readers today!

Club Blaze owner Jonathan Schenkel

with a sinister grin... “we want to take over

181

A scene from Club Blaze’s packed opening.

182

183

Steampunks Support Relay Illusions White Themed By : Sherrie Shepherd 186

Photo By : Eddi H

y for Life...

Ball

Haskell 187

On Saturday, June 20th, all of New Babbage gathered at Piermont Landing to support Relay for Life (RFL) and the American Cancer Society at the gala Illusions White Themed Ball. Throughout the day activities were conducted leading up to the magnificent ball. A Working Hour Glass Build Contest was held and various auction items including a lovely gown donated by Miss Kembri Tomsen, owner of The Curious Seamstress, were bid upon with Miss Canolli Capalini, owner of Capalini Fine Furnishings, donating a one-of-a-kind music box. Sponsors of the event represented the finest of New Babbage merchants: House of R.Fyre, Capalini Fine Furnishings, Blakopal Designs and Hatpins.

Miss Breezy Carver, owner of Piermont Landing and co-owner of Ruby’s Pub and Ruby’s Pub 2, is the Captain of the RFL team for New Babbage. She has worked tirelessly to organize, plan and successfully execute eleven such events over the past year, with five of those benefiting RFL. While a tremendous amount of work is involved, Miss Carver has a very personal passion for this cause after losing a very close family member to the disease. She was 188

Brezzy Carver organizer of the Steampunk Ball 189

most happy with the turnout with upwar fifteen residents attending. A total of for RFL by way of the auctions and don for the New Babbage Team stands at still more events scheduled of the Bab but cred Babbage make it Fabre, DJ Bats Doctor KlausW Miss Bo Serafi Clock Tenk, Babb of M sing soci bal

190

Mi gr gu g su h a going forward. M the 19th. Later events inclu will include an Alarm Clock B on September 19th.

rds of one-hundred-and28,000L were collected nations. The grand total t 403,000L thus far with d. Miss Carver thanks all bbagers for their support dits her dedicated New e team with helping to all possible: Dr. Rafael Mr. Bats Enoch (a.k.a. s), Miss Canolli Capalini, Obolensky, Baron Wulfenbach Outlander, ookworm Hienrichs, Miss fina Puchkina and the kwinder, Mr. Mosseveno the mayor of New bage. Mr. Tenk has said Miss Carver, “Miss Carver gle-handedly changed our ial scene with her monthly lls at Piermont Landing.”

Evil Doctor Obolensky tried to put a damper on the festivities

iss Bookworm Hienrichs raciously greeted every uest as they arrived, the ladies elegantly dressed in their beautiful white gowns and the gentlemen most dapper in their formal attire. DJ Bats made ure everyone’s requests were satisfied and the guests danced until the wee hours of the morning. The consensus was that the event was most enjoyable and tremendously successful. Miss Carver is planning a full schedule of events Major events are planned for the culminating RFL weekend, July 17th through ude The Trilogy, Clockwork/Mechanical/Doll Theme Ball on July 23rd which Build Contest; The Orient Express Ball on August 22nd and The Engineers Ball 191

l ; y s t r S e n r e g i b s y e C D n 8 i V d s D r r e e h p e n e h t h c S r o e h i Pa rr eC i e l h l S e : N : y y B b o t o Ph

The talented partnership of Cyberpunk/Cybergoth Fashion Designers Vasha Martinek and Dysturbed Sin, whose fashions are available at their store DV8, http://slurl.com/secondlife/Lasombra/67/157/51, have enhanced SL RolePlayers’ experience by offering a line of fashions and accessories to add the perfect amount of outrageous pizzazz to their characters. Their line of Steampunk accessories and hair also provides a wide selection of choices for the devotees of that sci-fi genre.

Black latex accented with bright primary colors for both women’s and men’s styles set the stage for science fiction drama. The neon-like highlights are carried through on the accessories like shoes, boots and gas masks and even hair styles.

Eye catching and other worldly beautiful, just putting on the clothes gets you in the mood to develop your own story. Adding to the fun are the number of accessories available, some quirky and humorous, some more menacing. Rivet Kitteh Ears and Tail and Cyber Bunneh Ears and Tail open the avenue for the neko in you to come out while providing a glow and color changing option. Gas canister belts and lethal injection syringes add some danger to the mix while the Steampunk Monoscopic Enhancer serves to provide an intimidating yet interesting look.

Martinek has had an interest in science fiction, and specifically cyberpunk/ cybergoth, since seeing the movie ‘Blade Runner’. That interest included fashion with SL giving her the opportunity to explore designing. Her taste in music is a big part of her passion as well, that being the industrial genre of music. She and her partner Sin observed a need in-world for more cyberpunk/cybergoth fashions, she reflects, “We realized that even with a few notable designers working very

192

hard, the cybergoth market was horribly under-served. We realized this because we tried to shop for decent wardrobes and just didn’t come up with enough.”

le

Both Martinek and Sin already owned their own stores but Martinek said, “They were ultimately just a collection of things we’d toyed around with making.

A dress here, some jewelry there, some furniture. We decided to get rid of both stores, keep the things we were proud of and consolidate into one store.” She shares further that probably ‘The’ contributing factor was her disappointment in a hair style. She said of this experience, “I finally found a hairstyle I’d been looking for after searching a month or more, bought it, and was incredibly disappointed in the product.

I decided I’d just do it myself, since I was tired of waiting for someone else to create it.”

Martinek and Sin are equally talented in that they each have expertise in designing clothing, hair and accessories. Being an RL and SL couple, it was obvious that they would join forces together as designers.

Model : Iolejanana Chajit Clothes: +DV8+ Fatale - Orange Hair : Petra Cyberfalls Carbon Black Accessories : Cyber Injection Bracelet, Rivet Kitteh Tails and Ears. Toxica Mask Shoes : Rivet Kitteh Boots 193

Model :Azerath Inglewood Clothes : Crosswired Shirt and Pants in Green Hair: Argon Carbon Black Accessories : Enforcer Mask Shoes : Rivet Kicks Boots Model Owen Landar Clothes : Praxis Shirt & Pants in Red Hair : Cyberhawk - Carbon Black Accessories : Heretic Mask, Rivet Kitteh Ears and Tail Shoes : Rivet Kitteh Boots Model: Glitter Bolissima Clothes : Collission Top & Skirt - Pink Stripe Hair : IO Cyberfalls - Carbon Black Accessories : Cyber Bangles, Cyber Injection Bracelet, Cyber Tiara, Emergency Injection Earrings, Lightwave Collar Shoes : Demonette Boots - Black/Pink Model: Nadia Felwitch Clothes : Demonette Corset and Shorts - Black/Violet Hair : Juju Ultraviolet Accessories : Cyber Bangles, Cyber Wrist Cuffs Shoes : Juju Boots

194

195

Martinek explains, “It wasn’t a leap to decide to do it with him. Actually, I don’t think I’d enjoy it half as much if I weren’t doing it with him.”

In terms of inspiration, Martinek gives credit to Sin, she said, “First and foremost, Dysturbed inspires me. He’s pretty good for me creatively; we seem to feed each other well when it comes to ideas. And I’m able to take constructive criticism from him unusually well. So it ends up working out that anything I think to do... ends up being better because I do it with him.” Other sources of inspiration are music, movies, books, photographs and even sometimes just a pattern or a shape. It’s the normal things, she feels, since she has a tendency to see what something could be, beyond what it is.

Looking to the future, they would like to grow their store. Martinek said, “We enjoy what we create, so that makes it pretty easy to keep doing it. We’re planning a redesign of the sim the store is located on later in the year - taking the vision behind the personal clothing and accessories to the macro level, and building a setting for them.” They plan for the rebuild to be very spectacular.

Martinek speculates that their clientele enjoy their fashions and the accompanying RP because, “Some people do it because it’s what they would do in real life if they didn’t have the restrictions they have.

Some people do it because it IS what they do in real life, and they want to reflect that here.

Some people do it because SL raises the concept of playing dress up doll to an art form.

So maybe what I should say is this: stop by +DV8+ and say hi. You might be interested in what you find here.”

Be sure to check out their blog for more information http:// dv8designs.blogspot.com/ DV8 owners and designers, Vasha Martinek & Dysturbed Sin

196