CHAIRMAN’S NOTE

We could all feel the world had gotten into motion again. The faculty had been buzzing with new first years finding their way in this extraordinary environment. The Maquettehall had been vibrant with enthusiastic, motivated students, giving their all to visualize their vision. The Atelier tables had been covered with drafts and drawings, and the smell of markers had filled the air. The constant popping of fine liner caps, muffled conversations in the background, and the ripping of sketching paper had been the noise that completed this fantastic atmosphere of learning. But now, as the academic year comes to a close, the once bustling halls are hushed, the Maquettehall lies empty, and the Atelier tables are cleared of drafts and drawings. But the noise of the holiday is already starting.

It can be a nuisance though. It can distract you from what you are focused on. It can take over your headspace and find its way into the deepest caverns of your mind. The thumping noise you hear when you are trying to fall asleep. A party by your upstairs neighbours distracting you from your study. Flowers by Miley Cyrus which you just cannot get out of your head. However, noise can be a beautiful thing as well. It can transform a space from a dull box into a living, breathing thing. It can give life to something that is otherwise lacklustre and it can change the way we perceive the world around us. It can give comfort to those who are lonely. It can embrace the mind.

Noise is an extraordinary thing. Without it, we can feel alone, uncomfortable and out of place. Too much noise can be distracting, annoying and overwhelming. The goal for us all must be to seek for the perfect amount of noise that motivates us. That keeps us focussed, without being a nuisance. That makes us feel un-alone, without taking up all our headspace. //