MachinimUWA VI: Karima Hoisan & Natascha Randt Reflect on Dharma

The Costa Rica-German connection with Karima Hoisan and Natascha Randt are back with a machinima born from a rhythmic poem by Dale Innis. "Reflect on This: Dactyls are Dharma, Too"  is the sublime result.
This machinima is now part of the L$1.1 Million, MachinimUWA VI: REFLECTIONS, the 6th UWA Short Animated Film Challenge. The theme for MachinimUWA VI is a tribute to the Centenary of the University of Western Australia. Entries for MachinimUWA VI: REFLECTIONS may consist of any storyline that fits the theme of 'REFLECTIONS.' At least ONE of the 3 'Spaces of Reflection' on UWA's SL SIMS (the Sunken Gardens, the Somerville Auditorium or the Reflection Pond) must be clearly shown in the story.

Special prizes are also offered for machinima that best portray one or a few of the artworks entered in UWA Centenary 3D Art Challenge: REFLECTIONS (150 prim limit - see link for details), also in progress at this time. 

MachinimUWA VI Entries (In reverse Klingon alphabetical order)
Chic Aeon (Corvallis, Oregon USA) - NO REGRETS
Karima Hoisan & Natascha Randt (Costa Rica & Germany) - REFLECT ON THIS: DACTYLS ARE DHARMA TOO
GnomeZen (Ashland, Oregon, USA) - THE AWAKENING
Carol Rainbow  [Carolrb Roux] (Oxfordshire, England) - DREAM OF LIFE
Joe Zazulak [Spiral Silverstar] (New Orleans, LA, USA) - THE MIRROR LIES
Tutsy Navarathna (Frenchman in Pondicherry, India) - NARCISSUS (French);  NARCISSUS (English) 
Hypatia Pickens (Rochester, new York, USA) - THE FAIREST ONE 
Carol Rainbow [Carolrb Roux] (Oxfordshire, England) - REFLECTIONS OF CHILDHOOD
Pallina Loon (Rome, Italy) - PALLINA..THE LITTLE RASCAL 
GnomeZen (Ashland, Oregon, USA) - DREAM REFLECTION
Carl Velde (Naples, Italy) - COMMUNICATION IS NEVER VIRTUAL
Chic Aeon (Corvallis, Oregon USA) - CAN YOU HEAR THE SILENCE 
Ed Vespucciano (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada) - LE SACRE DU PRINTEMPS
Joe Zazulak [Spiral Silverstar] (New Orleans, LA, USA) -  REFLECTIONS OF A VIRTUAL WORLD
Carol Rainbow [Carolrb Roux] (Oxfordshire, England) - REFLECTIONS

ALSO, calling for entries to REFLECTIONS: The UWA Centenary 3D Art Challenge (150 prim limit, Theme is 'Reflections'). Closing date for art if 30th May 2013

39 artworks entered and now on display so far! Do visit the UWA Challenge Gallery to view them. CLICK HERE TO TELEPORT TO GALLERY!

Ama Avro, "The Thinker",  Strasbourg France
Anley Piers, "Once Upon a Time", France
Barry Richez, "Quantum", Toulouse, FranceBethlise Lorgsval, "Scene reflexion:, Sainte Tulle, France
Betty Tureaud, "Reflexion on a human mind", Copenhagen Denmark
Carmsie Melodie & Struthious, "Looking Back", Australia & USA
Cherry Manga, "Cogito ergo sum", France
Chic Aeon, "I have walked this way before", Corvallis, Oregon USA
Chuckmatrix Clip, "The Scent of Her", Elizabeth, NJ USA
Claude Belgar, "Reflection of reflection", Margny-lès-Compiègne France
Corcosman Voom, "Narcissus", California, USA
Dusty Canning, "Reflections of a Star", Perth, Australia
Dyzo, "Choice", St John's, Newfoundland, Canada 
Eifachfilm Vacirca, "Fishing for the Green Rose", Zurich, Switzerland
Faery Sola, "Family Tree",  Caboolture, Brisbane, Australia
Gem Preiz Planet of Knowledge Paris France
Ginger Alsop The Room for Reflections Calgary, Alberta Canada
Glyph Graves I Thought I Hated Him Sydney Australia
GnomeZen Dream Reflection Monterey, California USA
Jess Oranos Timely Reflections Cincinnati, OH USA
Jipe Loon, Mirror with 4 Virgins on the Shores of their Depravity, France
Judyblue Stand Reflections on the Past El Paso, Texas USA
Krystali Rabeni Silent Reflections UK
Lalexl Devin, "Ephemeral Reflection", France
Luna Enigma Reflections of a Diva Illinois USA
Mcarp Mavendorf, "Rotation model", Atlanta, Georgia
Nino Vichan Riflessioni delle Onde (Reflections of Waves) New York City USA
PeanutbuttahJellehTime Magic Don't lose your marbles (especially the big one) Seattle USA
Rosie Dimanovic Horizon France
serra Quenda, "Lines of Investigation/Reflection Upon", Melbourne, Australia 
Shenn Coleman Neuron Sphere Avignon France
snoop acoustic Reflexion France
soror Nishi Strange oaks from simple acorns grow England
Sunday Serenity Reflections of Life Melbourne Australia
Surfaqua Oh Avatars-reflection Luzern Switzerland
Talia Sunsong. Emerging from the Chrysalis Berkeley, California USA
Thor Effingham Better Days Ahead Ohio USA
Thoth Jantzen A Reflection on Reflecting Reflections Boston USA
yepar Saenz, Reflexions of Reflections carousel, Martinique, French Island in the Carribean

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MachinimUWA VI: Hypatia Pickens and 'The Fairest One'

 

Hypatia Pickens, masterful storyteller and multi-award winner, weaves her magic with 'The Fairest One'.

Hypatia describes this tale as one about a rich man, an ailing wife, a gold-digging con-artist, and a grandson who can see through surfaces and false reflections.

This machinima is now part of the L$1.1 Million, MachinimUWA VI: REFLECTIONS, the 6th UWA Short Animated Film Challenge. The theme for MachinimUWA VI is a tribute to the Centenary of the University of Western Australia. Entries for MachinimUWA VI: REFLECTIONS may consist of any storyline that fits the theme of 'REFLECTIONS.' At least ONE of the 3 'Spaces of Reflection' on UWA's SL SIMS (the Sunken Gardens, the Somerville Auditorium or the Reflection Pond) must be clearly shown in the story.

Special prizes are also offered for machinima that best portray one or a few of the artworks entered in UWA Centenary 3D Art Challenge: REFLECTIONS (150 prim limit - see link for details), also in progress at this time.

MachinimUWA VI Entries (In reverse Klingon alphabetical order)
Chic Aeon (Corvallis, Oregon USA) - NO REGRETS
GnomeZen (Ashland, Oregon, USA) - THE AWAKENING
Carol Rainbow  [Carolrb Roux] (Oxfordshire, England) - DREAM OF LIFE
Joe Zazulak [Spiral Silverstar] (New Orleans, LA, USA) - THE MIRROR LIES
Tutsy Navarathna (Frenchman in Pondicherry, India) - NARCISSUS (French);  NARCISSUS (English)
Hypatia Pickens (Rochester, new York, USA) - THE FAIREST ONE
Carol Rainbow [Carolrb Roux] (Oxfordshire, England) - REFLECTIONS OF CHILDHOOD
Pallina Loon (Rome, Italy) - PALLINA..THE LITTLE RASCAL
GnomeZen (Ashland, Oregon, USA) - DREAM REFLECTION
Carl Velde (Naples, Italy) - COMMUNICATION IS NEVER VIRTUAL
Chic Aeon (Corvallis, Oregon USA) - CAN YOU HEAR THE SILENCE
Ed Vespucciano (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada) - LE SACRE DU PRINTEMPS
Joe Zazulak [Spiral Silverstar] (New Orleans, LA, USA) -  REFLECTIONS OF A VIRTUAL WORLD
Carol Rainbow [Carolrb Roux] (Oxfordshire, England) - REFLECTIONS

ALSO, calling for entries to REFLECTIONS: The UWA Centenary 3D Art Challenge (150 prim limit, Theme is 'Reflections'). Closing date for art if 30th May 2013

38 artworks entered and now on display so far! Do visit the UWA Challenge Gallery to view them. CLICK HERE TO TELEPORT TO GALLERY!

Ama Avro, "The Thinker",  Strasbourg France
Anley Piers, "Once Upon a Time", France
Bethlise Lorgsval, "Scene reflexion:, Sainte Tulle, France
Betty Tureaud, "Reflexion on a human mind", Copenhagen Denmark
Carmsie Melodie & Struthious, "Looking Back", Australia & USA
Cherry Manga, "Cogito ergo sum", France
Chic Aeon, "I have walked this way before", Corvallis, Oregon USA
Chuckmatrix Clip, "The Scent of Her", Elizabeth, NJ USA
Claude Belgar, "Reflection of reflection", Margny-lès-Compiègne France
Corcosman Voom, "Narcissus", California, USA
Dusty Canning, "Reflections of a Star", Perth, Australia
Dyzo, "Choice", St John's, Newfoundland, Canada 
Eifachfilm Vacirca, "Fishing for the Green Rose", Zurich, Switzerland
Faery Sola, "Family Tree",  Caboolture, Brisbane, Australia
Gem Preiz Planet of Knowledge Paris France
Ginger Alsop The Room for Reflections Calgary, Alberta Canada
Glyph Graves I Thought I Hated Him Sydney Australia
GnomeZen Dream Reflection Monterey, California USA
Jess Oranos Timely Reflections Cincinnati, OH USA
Jipe Loon, Mirror with 4 Virgins on the Shores of their Depravity, France
Judyblue Stand Reflections on the Past El Paso, Texas USA
Krystali Rabeni Silent Reflections UK
Lalexl Devin, "Ephemeral Reflection", France
Luna Enigma Reflections of a Diva Illinois USA
Mcarp Mavendorf, "Rotation model", Atlanta, Georgia
Nino Vichan Riflessioni delle Onde (Reflections of Waves) New York City USA
PeanutbuttahJellehTime Magic Don't lose your marbles (especially the big one) Seattle USA
Rosie Dimanovic Horizon France
serra Quenda, "Lines of Investigation/Reflection Upon", Melbourne, Australia
Shenn Coleman Neuron Sphere Avignon France
snoop acoustic Reflexion France
soror Nishi Strange oaks from simple acorns grow England
Sunday Serenity Reflections of Life Melbourne Australia
Surfaqua Oh Avatars-reflection Luzern Switzerland
Talia Sunsong. Emerging from the Chrysalis Berkeley, California USA
Thor Effingham Better Days Ahead Ohio USA
Thoth Jantzen A Reflection on Reflecting Reflections Boston USA
yepar Saenz, Reflexions of Reflections carousel, Martinique, French Island in the Carribean

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MachinimUWA VI: Sublime Offerings by Joe Zazulak & Chic Aeon

 
CHIC AEON - Can you Hear the Silence


Reflections of a virtual world from Joe Zazulak (Spiral Silverstar) on Vimeo.
JOE ZAZULAK (Spiral Silverstar) - Reflections of a Virtual World 


As we approach 6 weeks till the final closing date, we have more brilliant works in... with two picture perfect machinima by Joe Zazulak & Chic Aeon. Joe's 'Reflections of a Virtual World' feature some scenes shot with such clarity that the organizers initially thouight they were witnessing the actual Sunken Gardens at UWA. Chic's 'Can you Hear the Silence' is an 'Art of the Artists' styled creation which interweaves a number of the awe inspiring artworks submitted for the art challenge.

These machinima are now part of the L$1.1 Million, MachinimUWA VI: REFLECTIONS, the 6th UWA Short Animated Film Challenge. The theme for MachinimUWA VI is a tribute to the Centenary of the University of Western Australia. Entries for MachinimUWA VI: REFLECTIONS may consist of any storyline that fits the theme of 'REFLECTIONS.' At least ONE of the 3 'Spaces of Reflection' on UWA's SL SIMS (the Sunken Gardens, the Somerville Auditorium or the Reflection Pond) must be clearly shown in the story.

Special prizes are also offered for machinima that best portray one or a few of the artworks entered in UWA Centenary 3D Art Challenge: REFLECTIONS (150 prim limit - see link for details), also in progress at this time.

MachinimUWA VI Entries (In reverse Klingon alphabetical order)
Chic Aeon (Corvallis, Oregon USA) - NO REGRETS
GnomeZen (Ashland, Oregon, USA) - THE AWAKENING
Carol Rainbow  [Carolrb Roux] (Oxfordshire, England) - DREAM OF LIFE
Joe Zazulak [Spiral Silverstar] (New Orleans, LA, USA) - THE MIRROR LIES
Tutsy Navarathna (Frenchman in Pondicherry, India) - NARCISSUS (French);  NARCISSUS (English)
Carol Rainbow [Carolrb Roux] (Oxfordshire, England) - REFLECTIONS OF CHILDHOOD
Pallina Loon (Rome, Italy) - PALLINA..THE LITTLE RASCAL
GnomeZen (Ashland, Oregon, USA) - DREAM REFLECTION
Carl Velde (Naples, Italy) - COMMUNICATION IS NEVER VIRTUAL
Chic Aeon (Corvallis, Oregon USA) - CAN YOU HEAR THE SILENCE
Ed Vespucciano (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada) - LE SACRE DU PRINTEMPS
Joe Zazulak [Spiral Silverstar] (New Orleans, LA, USA) -  REFLECTIONS OF A VIRTUAL WORLD
Carol Rainbow [Carolrb Roux] (Oxfordshire, England) - REFLECTIONS

ALSO, calling for entries to REFLECTIONS: The UWA Centenary 3D Art Challenge (150 prim limit, Theme is 'Reflections'). Closing date for art if 30th May 2013

36 artworks entered and now on display so far! Do visit the UWA Challenge Gallery to view them. CLICK HERE TO TELEPORT TO GALLERY!

Ama Avro, "The Thinker",  Strasbourg France
Anley Piers, "Once Upon a Time", France
Bethlise Lorgsval, "Scene reflexion:, Sainte Tulle, France
Betty Tureaud, "Reflexion on a human mind", Copenhagen Denmark
Carmsie Melodie & Struthious, "Looking Back", Australia & USA
Cherry Manga, "Cogito ergo sum", France
Chic Aeon, "I have walked this way before", Corvallis, Oregon USA
Chuckmatrix Clip, "The Scent of Her", Elizabeth, NJ USA
Claude Belgar, "Reflection of reflection", Margny-lès-Compiègne France
Corcosman Voom, "Narcissus", California, USA
Dusty Canning, "Reflections of a Star", Perth, Australia
Dyzo, "Choice", St John's, Newfoundland, Canada
Faery Sola, "Family Tree",  Caboolture, Brisbane, Australia
Gem Preiz Planet of Knowledge Paris France
Ginger Alsop The Room for Reflections Calgary, Alberta Canada
Glyph Graves I Thought I Hated Him Sydney Australia
GnomeZen Dream Reflection Monterey, California USA
Jess Oranos Timely Reflections Cincinnati, OH USA
Jipe Loon, Mirror with 4 Virgins on the Shores of their Depravity, France
Judyblue Stand Reflections on the Past El Paso, Texas USA
Krystali Rabeni Silent Reflections UK
Lalexl Devin, "Ephemeral Reflection", France
Luna Enigma Reflections of a Diva Illinois USA
Mcarp Mavendorf, "Rotation model", Atlanta, Georgia
Nino Vichan Riflessioni delle Onde (Reflections of Waves) New York City USA
PeanutbuttahJellehTime Magic Don't lose your marbles (especially the big one) Seattle USA
Rosie Dimanovic Horizon France
serra Quenda, "Lines of Investigation/Reflection Upon", Melbourne, Australia
Shenn Coleman Neuron Sphere Avignon France
snoop acoustic Reflexion France
soror Nishi Strange oaks from simple acorns grow England
Sunday Serenity Reflections of Life Melbourne Australia
Surfaqua Oh Avatars-reflection Luzern Switzerland
Talia Sunsong. Emerging from the Chrysalis Berkeley, California USA
Thor Effingham Better Days Ahead Ohio USA
Thoth Jantzen A Reflection on Reflecting Reflections Boston USA
yepar Saenz, Reflexions of Reflections carousel, Martinique, French Island in the Carribean

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MachinimUWA VI: Tutsy returns! And More from Gnomezen & Carol Rainbow

 
GnomeZen's 'The Awakening'

 
Carol Rainbow's 'Dream of Life'

 
Tutsy Navarathna's 'Narcissus'

As the closing dates loom for the 3D Art Challenge (30th May) as well as for MachinimUWA VI (30th June), 3 new works have been received from GnomeZen (The Awakening), Carol Rainbow (Dream of Life), and also triple defending champion, Tutsy Navarathna (Narcissus).

These machinima are now part of the L$1.1 Million, MachinimUWA VI: REFLECTIONS, the 6th UWA Short Animated Film Challenge. The theme for MachinimUWA VI is a tribute to the Centenary of the University of Western Australia. Entries for MachinimUWA VI: REFLECTIONS may consist of any storyline that fits the theme of 'REFLECTIONS.' At least ONE of the 3 'Spaces of Reflection' on UWA's SL SIMS (the Sunken Gardens, the Somerville Auditorium or the Reflection Pond) must be clearly shown in the story.

Special prizes are also offered for machinima that best portray one or a few of the artworks entered in UWA Centenary 3D Art Challenge: REFLECTIONS (150 prim limit - see link for details), also in progress at this time.

MachinimUWA VI Entries (In reverse Klingon alphabetical order)
Chic Aeon (Corvallis, Oregon USA) - NO REGRETS
GnomeZen (Ashland, Oregon, USA) - THE AWAKENING
Carol Rainbow  [Carolrb Roux] (Oxfordshire, England) - DREAM OF LIFE
Joe Zazulak [Spiral Silverstar] (New Orleans, LA, USA) - THE MIRROR LIES
Tutsy Navarathna (Frenchman in Pondicherry, India) - NARCISSUS (French);  NARCISSUS (English)
Carol Rainbow [Carolrb Roux] (Oxfordshire, England) - REFLECTIONS OF CHILDHOOD
Pallina Loon (Rome, Italy) - PALLINA..THE LITTLE RASCAL
GnomeZen (Ashland, Oregon, USA) - DREAM REFLECTION
Carl Velde (Naples, Italy) - COMMUNICATION IS NEVER VIRTUAL
Ed Vespucciano (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada) - LE SACRE DU PRINTEMPS
Carol Rainbow [Carolrb Roux] (Oxfordshire, England) - REFLECTIONS

ALSO, calling for entries to REFLECTIONS: The UWA Centenary 3D Art Challenge (150 prim limit, Theme is 'Reflections'). Closing date for art if 30th May 2013

36 artworks entered and now on display so far! Do visit the UWA Challenge Gallery to view them. CLICK HERE TO TELEPORT TO GALLERY!

Ama Avro The Thinker Strasbourg France
Anley Piers, Once Upon a Time, France
Bethlise Lorgsval Scene reflexion Sainte Tulle France
Betty Tureaud Reflexion on a human mind Copenhagen Denmark
Carmsie Melodie & Struthious, "Looking Back", Australia & USA
Cherry Manga Cogito ergo sum France
Chic Aeon I have walked this way before Corvallis, Oregon USA
Chuckmatrix Clip The Scent of Her Elizabeth, NJ USA
Claude Belgar Reflection of reflection Margny-lès-Compiègne France
Corcosman Voom Narcissus California USA
Dusty Canning Reflections of a Star Perth Australia
Faery Sola, "Family Tree",  Caboolture, Brisbane, Australia
Gem Preiz Planet of Knowledge Paris France
Ginger Alsop The Room for Reflections Calgary, Alberta Canada
Glyph Graves I Thought I Hated Him Sydney Australia
GnomeZen Dream Reflection Monterey, California USA
Jess Oranos Timely Reflections Cincinnati, OH USA
Jipe Loon, Mirror with 4 Virgins on the Shores of their Depravity, France
Judyblue Stand Reflections on the Past El Paso, Texas USA
Krystali Rabeni Silent Reflections UK
Lalexl Devin, "Ephemeral Reflection", France
Luna Enigma Reflections of a Diva Illinois USA
Mcarp Mavendorf, "Rotation model", Atlanta, Georgia
Nino Vichan Riflessioni delle Onde (Reflections of Waves) New York City USA
PeanutbuttahJellehTime Magic Don't lose your marbles (especially the big one) Seattle USA
Rosie Dimanovic Horizon France
serra Quenda, "Lines of Investigation/Reflection Upon", Melbourne, Australia
Shenn Coleman Neuron Sphere Avignon France
snoop acoustic Reflexion France
soror Nishi Strange oaks from simple acorns grow England
Sunday Serenity Reflections of Life Melbourne Australia
Surfaqua Oh Avatars-reflection Luzern Switzerland
Talia Sunsong. Emerging from the Chrysalis Berkeley, California USA
Thor Effingham Better Days Ahead Ohio USA
Thoth Jantzen A Reflection on Reflecting Reflections Boston USA
yepar Saenz, Reflexions of Reflections carousel, Martinique, French Island in the Carribean

May LEA FULL SIM review of Mentality, as written by Victoria Lenoirre,

This month at LEA6, it is Mentality by Katy Isodo. Katy is the General Manager of ConcreteSL and Cofounder of Pixelgasm. Mentality opens on May 5th at 12pm SLT. I am writing this now since I will be out of town for much of this month. I'll be back by the 27th. :-)

Below is what she has to say about Mentality:


Mentality
Definition of MENTALITY

1: mental power or capacity : intelligence
2: mode or way of thought : outlook

This sim is a creation about and surrounding mentality.  The power and way we perceive and understand, even move and operate through our changing worlds.  It seems obvious that two people experiencing the same event may see the incident in entirely different ways, go about reacting in opposite manners, learn something not even related to one another.  Mentality is your past, your personality, your present, your emotions.. all rolled into one.

Many of the exhibits are meant to challenge you to look beyond the mentality you have now, to literally begin to live inside the mind you want and hope to have.  This sim is a reflection of not only my journey of doing just that on a daily basis, but those of my partner and friends.

Mentality is the mental power, your mental power, and capacity to change the outlook on your life.

Mentality landing zone

Above is a photo of the book you see when you arrive at Mentality. It is a note written by the artist with a brief introduction of what mentality is to her.

Turn towards your left and walk past the area of huge paintbrushes, Draw Your Life. There is also a huge palette. Life is like a blank canvas that you can paint on. Your mentality allows to paint and embellish on it as you wish. You can choose broad, rich strokes or you can use thin, dense strokes. How will you choose to paint?

Past the brushes is a stone fountain with an angel and an energy orb above it. Around the base are the words, "Mental Power Or Thought" and "Mode Or Way Of Thought." The fountain is called "Perception of Mentality". My interview below explains a bit about it.

Beyond the fountain is a rotatating cyclone of runes. The runes rotate as well."It's representing how.. you can have all these plans in life, but some things are just up to chance. We are given a certain set of 'runes'.. a deck of cards.. however, and you deal with it the way you deal with it."

To the right and on the grass is a yellow square with a stick figure on it, that is the teleporter. There are six destinations including, Cave of Want, Draw Your life, Oblivion, Oblivion1000, and Emergence. The skybox is Oblivion1000. Katy said to me, " this piece is a bit darker in nature - we'll be putting some warnings up for those that might be triggered by it." Katy is helped by her partner, Joe Utherwurldly. 

Oblivion1000

You will find teleporters throughout the sim so you can navigate to the six areas. I'm truly sorry if I miss the opening for this one. I've always been fascinated by the human mind.

 Mentality is such a pivotal concept in our lives. The mind is such an important aspect of life. Is this work about independent thinking and acting, not caring how others view us or act towards us?

The sim is really about mentality and how our mentality effects us, how what we think, feel.. refuse to face.. can change how we see things and perceive things.  The graphic I did for the photo is from the fountain called "Perception of Mentality".  It is possible to see the Angel being attacked and losing, fighting against an alien force, creating a ball of energy, losing control, and probably even more.  

Perception of Mentality

My own concept of mentality isn't so much not caring what others think but coming to a realization you won't be able to please everyone.  There's a quote on pinterest I found once something like "You can be the juiciest peach in the world, and there will still be someone who doesn't like peaches".  Often times people get confused by either not caring enough and thus being oblivious to changes they need to make - often done defensively, and caring too much to the point of taking on extra baggage from others.  If something I do hits a nerve for someone else, they might be angry with me, but that has no reflection on what I am.

 In your view of mentality, it doesn't matter if people forgive us for wrongs we did in the past?

Being forgiven is a tricky subject because it does make things easier - that being said it's one of those things that is outside of our control.  You can't force someone to forgive you, nor should any past mistake put you in forever emotional bondage to another person.  It's not that it doesn't matter as much as forgiveness in itself isn't even for anyone but yourself.  As an example, I can choose to forgive people who are not apologetic for what they've done.  Forgiveness is different than saying it was okay, or trusting again, it's just coming to peace with it - letting go of the anger that only serves to hurt me.  

 What does it say about their mentality if they have a lot of anger and/or are unable to forgive? 

Like I said with the last question - forgiveness is a very personal decision.  It doesn't even have to include the other party at all if you don't want.  Sometimes that's even for the best.  Another quote I found somewhere - can never remember where I find them lol - Staying angry is like taking poison thinking it's going to kill who we are angry at.  Being angry is valid, being hurt is valid - holding onto a resentment and a hatred is like a mental self destruction.

Has meditation and Zen buddhism influenced your look on life?

I've done a bit of meditation in and out of the mental health scene through the years but can't say zen buddhism has really effected much of my outlook that I'm aware of.

Who are the most healthy individuals you know of who embody a healthy mentality?

While there are people I admire, personal health and healthy mentality is so a singular thing.  It's just different for every person.  Some of the common factors are just an ability to persevere through life.  Being able to go through rough things - difficult times without it changing them as people.  It's almost as if these people can walk through hurricanes and yet not fall to hopelessness.  Anne Frank is a big example of this for me since childhood, Lacey Strum is another who is more recent.

Thank you so much, Katy Isodo and Joe Utherwurldly for your work at LEA6. Mentality looks intriguing and I think it challenges the mind to think deep.

Please visit Mentality when you can! The opening is May 5th at 12pm SLT! We hope you can make it!

Have fun and enjoy the art!

~Victoria Lenoirre

LEA FULL SIM ART SERIES (MAY): Mentality by Katy Isodo

Katy Isodo brings 'Mentality' to LEA 6 for the May round of the LEA FULL SIM ART Series. A full list of the Series 3 offerings can be found on the blog: LEA FULL SIM ART SERIES (click here for full year schedule).

GRAND OPENING: 5th May 2013, NOON SLT (12PM SLT)
LOCATION: HERE AT LEA 6

Mentality

Definition of MENTALITY

1: mental power or capacity : intelligence

2: mode or way of thought : outlook

 In Katy's Words:

This SIM  is a creation about and surrounding mentality.  The power and way we perceive and understand, even move and operate through our changing worlds.  It seems obvious that two people experiencing the same event may see the incident in entirely different ways, go about reacting in opposite manners, learn something not even related to one another.  Mentality is your past, your personality, your present, your emotions.. all rolled into one.  

Many of the exhibits are meant to challenge you to look beyond the mentality you have now, to literally begin to live inside the mind you want and hope to have.  This sim is a reflection of not only my journey of doing just that on a daily basis, but those of my partner and friends.  

Mentality is the mental power, your mental power, and capacity to change the outlook on your life.

.

MachinimUWA VI: GnomeZen's 'Dream Reflection'

GnomeZen takes us on a journey through the surreal with 'Dream Reflection'.

This machinima are now part of the L$1.1 Million, MachinimUWA VI: REFLECTIONS , the 6th UWA Short Animated Film Challenge. The theme for MachinimUWA VI is a tribute to the Centenary of the University of Western Australia. Entries for MachinimUWA VI: REFLECTIONS may consist of any storyline that fits the theme of 'REFLECTIONS.' At least ONE of the 3 'Spaces of Reflection' on UWA's SL SIMS (the Sunken Gardens, the Somerville Auditorium or the Reflection Pond) must form an integral part of the story.

Special prizes are also offered for machinima that best portray one or a few of the artworks entered in UWA Centenary 3D Art Challenge: REFLECTIONS (150 prim limit - see link for details), also in progress at this time.

MachinimUWA VI Entries (In reverse Klingon alphabetical order)
Chic Aeon (Corvallis, Oregon USA) - NO REGRETS
Joe Zazulak [Spiral Silverstar] (New Orleans, LA, USA) - THE MIRROR LIES
Carol Rainbow [Carolrb Roux] - REFLECTIONS OF CHILDHOOD
Pallina Loon (Rome, Italy) - PALLINA..THE LITTLE RASCAL
GnomeZen (Ashland, Oregon, USA) - DREAM REFLECTION
Carl Velde (Naples, Italy) - COMMUNICATION IS NEVER VIRTUAL
Ed Vespucciano (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada) - LE SACRE DU PRINTEMPS
Carol Rainbow [Carolrb Roux] - REFLECTIONS

ALSO, calling for entries to REFLECTIONS: The UWA Centenary 3D Art Challenge (150 prim limit, Theme is 'Reflections'). Closing date for art if 30th May 2013

30+ artworks entered and now on display so far! Do visit the UWA Challenge Gallery to view them. CLICK HERE TO TELEPORT TO GALLERY!

Ama Avro The Thinker Strasbourg France
Anley Piers, Once Upon a Time, France
Bethlise Lorgsval Scene reflexion Sainte Tulle France
Betty Tureaud Reflexion on a human mind Copenhagen Denmark
Cherry Manga Cogito ergo sum France
Chic Aeon I have walked this way before Corvallis, Oregon USA
Chuckmatrix Clip The Scent of Her Elizabeth, NJ USA
Claude Belgar Reflection of reflection Margny-lès-Compiègne France
Corcosman Voom Narcissus California USA
Dusty Canning Reflections of a Star Perth Australia
Gem Preiz Planet of Knowledge Paris France
Ginger Alsop The Room for Reflections Calgary, Alberta Canada
Glyph Graves I Thought I Hated Him Sydney Australia
GnomeZen Dream Reflection Monterey, California USA
Jess Oranos Timely Reflections Cincinnati, OH USA
Jipe Loon, Mirror with 4 Virgins on the Shores of their Depravity, France
Judyblue Stand Reflections on the Past El Paso, Texas USA
Krystali Rabeni Silent Reflections UK
Luna Enigma Reflections of a Diva Illinois USA
Nino Vichan Riflessioni delle Onde (Reflections of Waves) New York City USA
PeanutbuttahJellehTime Magic Don't lose your marbles (especially the big one) Seattle USA
Rosie Dimanovic Horizon France
Shenn Coleman Neuron Sphere Avignon France
snoop acoustic Reflexion France
soror Nishi Strange oaks from simple acorns grow England
Sunday Serenity Reflections of Life Melbourne Australia
Surfaqua Oh Avatars-reflection Luzern Switzerland
Talia Sunsong. Emerging from the Chrysalis Berkeley, California USA
Thor Effingham Better Days Ahead Ohio USA
Thoth Jantzen A Reflection on Reflecting Reflections Boston USA
yepar Saenz, Reflexions of Reflections carousel, Martinique, French Island in the Carribean

University of Kentucky Collaboration with UWA School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology

Left to right: Avatars of Professor Stuart Bunt (UWA), Dr April Richardson-Hatcher (UK), D.Newton (UWA) and Matt Hazzard (UK) meet to launch the collaboration

The University of Kentucky (UK) has had a strong presence in SL for some years with classes in Virtual Anatomy showing off complex parts of the human body, in particular to teach students various aspects of the cranial nervous system. They have created a “Cranial Nerve Skywalk” in Second Life that features a 3D display of cranial nerves III, V, VII, and IX. This can be seen HERE.

UWA's Professor Stuart Bunt and his student Khaleel Sunba have kicked off a collaboration with the UK's Dr April Richardson-Hatcher and Matt Hazzard with the assistance of UWA SL founder, Jay Jay Jegathesan as one of the first steps towards building a School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology in Second Life. One of the triggers for the collaboration was funding from an Improving Student Learning Grant from UWA’s Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning.

A model from The University of Kentucky's cranial nerve collection  system placed at UWA

As a first stage in the collaboration, the University of Kentucky have kindly placed one of their complex and detailed cranial models at the site selected for the setting up UWA's School of Anatomy, Physiology & Human Biology (APHB), as seen in the image above, and can be seen at THIS location in Second Life.

Commenting on their work, Dr Richardson-Hatcher explained, “Second Life has enabled us teach anatomical concepts in a creative way. Our healthcare professional students study 3D models of the cranial nerves to begin to demystify some of the complex routes these nerves take to reach their targets. Our undergraduates benefit from the social aspect of Second Life as they meet weekly for Team-based learning sessions with their classmates for the discussion of regional anatomy. The students demonstrate healthy group dynamics even in the virtual world and have the added bonus of being able to interact in this way from various locations across the campus. We are excited to continue to explore the possibilities of the virtual world in anatomy education.”

An information sheet next to the model, provides information on the programmes running at the University of Kentucky, as follows:

These models were designed to supplement students’ study of the cranial nerve pathways and fiber types that are included in the respective nerves. The skywalk includes an overall description of the cranial nerves and an in-depth tutorial of cranial nerves III, V, VII, and IX located behind each corresponding cranial nerve display. Scanned human bone images (courtesy of Dr. Paul Brown at Stanford University) were imported into Second Life to reconstruct the cranial nerves in context with the bony foramina in the skull. This assembly allows students to follow the path of the cranial nerves through their natural courses within the skull. 

In addition, specific color codes were assigned for specific types of fibers carried in each cranial nerve, such as red for somatomotor and green for somatosensory. Autonomic fibers, particularly parasympathetic fibers, were designated as preganglionic (purple) and postganglionic (orange). A key is posted in the virtual platform that correlates the color code with the specific fiber type included in the cranial nerve (the color coding has been removed from this model for simplicity). 

Dr. April Richardson-Hatcher and Matt Hazzard from the University of Kentucky, in addition to Dr. German Ramirez from the University of Manitoba, collaborated on this project. Dr. Richardson-Hatcher and Dr. Ramirez introduce this tutorial to healthcare professional students in their courses as an additional approach to studying the cranial nerves. One of the major benefits of studying the cranial nerves in this program is that students may log on from anywhere to view the nerves and interact with their peers in the same setting. Camera controls (i.e. zooming features) in Second Life allow for an in-depth view of the cranial nerves in context with the surrounding bones. 

The creators of this display envision that these models may be used by any student anywhere who is interested in learning the specifics of the cranial nerves. The Cranial Nerve Skywalk is located above UK’s virtual island in Second Life (the landmark is http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/University%20of%20KY/123/40/1001). 

It is expected that the first stage of UWA's APHB Building will be ready by the end of May. This will then be the home of  'The Celestian' (one of UWA's 100 Treasures), a wonderful creation by UWA's Artist in Residence, Hans Arkeveld, which had been lovingly resculpted in SL by Chuckmatrix Clip. On the UWA campus proper, The Celestian sits in a garden at the front entrance of the APHB building.

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Reflections upon Reflections

We have a solid start on our UWA Centenary 3D Art Challenge: REFLECTIONS, with 29 entries registered so far and several more known to be in progress. The theme for this challenge was determined by the Centenary committees to celebrate the first 100 years of teaching students at UWA. In that context, one might naturally think that the theme is just about looking back, but there are numerous ways to interpret it and artists are encouraged not to confine their thinking to the most obvious ones. In essence, REFLECTIONS is about self examination, about contemplation upon where we are now and how we got here, with "here" being now--this point in time as a crossroad between past and future. So reflection can be interpreted as a literal abstract reflection in a mirror--a physical phenomenon of light--or it can be a metaphor for introspection; a deeply personal contemplation.

In REFLECTIONS we have numerous examples of both approaches, some that span both, and a few that are more tangential. I thought it might be useful to show current entries that illustrate the breadth of interpretation that is possible within the theme, and hopefully to inspire others to come up with their own. I'll let you decide how (or whether) to categorize them. Deadline for  entries is 31 May and there is a L$600,000 prize pool with a top prize of L$100,000. Complete details here.

A Glance at "Virtually Real" by Victoria Lenoirre

For the month of April at LEA 6, there is a full sim installation entitled "Virtually Real" by Krystali Rabeni. You do not want to miss it!

In her profile pick she writes,

"The most exciting experience of virtual reality is not so much the one that totally alters the viewer's perspective on the real as the one that is able to expand, augment and enlarge the real. In other words, it is in its relationship with the real, rather than in its attempts to substitute itself for the real, that the most original use of virtual reality is found therefore creating the 'Virtually Real'.

Upon landing here, you will find yourself in a cramped area and facing an anywhere door. You are in part 1 of the VR maze. This place is dark and you wonder where to go until you see the door. Glancing at the door is like glancing at the unknown, just what lies beyond? Your curiosity spurs you on to turn that door knob and venture forward.

After the anywhere door you should be on an open platform. Beyond you, lies a vast land. Walk towards the edge of the platform and you'll see giant hands lying over the water. The giant hands are like stepping stones that you will need  to step onto to get to the beach. I couldn't resist posing on the giant hand. It makes for a great photo, right? The hands are so well done.

Second location after the Anywhere Door

Once off the platform, I heard the thumping of balls. Red balls are bouncing off the bleachers and landing on the beach. It's like dodge ball except you can't see who is throwing them at you. It might seem a bit strange. The bleachers are filled with various characters and objects. Most of the cutouts were of ballerinas, one leg raised up behind them. It is an odd assortment of figures.

Beyond the bleachers you find yourself in a flat grassy area. It is so lush and green. Mother Earth is the figure in the middle, holding up two mounds of earth containing trees. Farther away to her left is a little girl crying and her tears form a waterfall. On your right is a pixellated, blurry picture of Da Vinci's Mona Lisa. In the distance,  you can see mountains. This spot is ideal for landscape photos.

Mother Earth

As is my habit, I question the artist about the work. Below is my conversation with Krystali Rabeni.


I like how you mixed the real with the unreal in this full sim installation. What does this work say about reality as a whole?

KR: Thank you, I'm very happy you enjoyed the sim. In my view, I really believe the vast majority of people are enchanted by media, celebrity and the material world and tend to forget to dream for themselves, instead aiding the dreams of others. We create a bubble around ourselves and 'stay safe' instead of maybe sometimes daring to be what we really want to be. We are all something to someone, be it a mother, father husband, wife, employer, employee, aunty, uncle, brother or sister and wonderful as this can be, we sometimes just forget ourselves along the way. I'd like to think that if my art has in some way inspired one person to do something they have always wanted to do or to ask a question they have always wanted to know the answer to then I will be very happy. I think the world can be too unreal and the true reality stays hidden.

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Do you think we take ourselves too seriously at times?

KR: I do. I think we should laugh a lot more, love even more and treat everyone as we would like to be treated.
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What is the most important build of this work, meaning that if you took it out, the work would not make much sense or be as cohesive?

KR: It would be difficult to choose just one piece as each is linked to another. But to answer your question and choose just one I think it would be Mother Earth. She is standing tall telling us that we all have a responsibility to ourselves, each other and our earth.

I was once told a story that I never forget...You may have heard the story of the doctor in a small French village who was about to retire. He had been on call day and night; the people could not afford to pay him much, but that had made no difference. He cared for them as best he was able. As the day of his retirement approached, the people wished to make a concrete expression of their gratitude and affection. It was proposed that on a given day (since they had so little money to give) they each bring a pitcher of wine from their own cellars and pour it in a large barrel. The day arrived and all day long the people were seen pouring their offerings into the barrel.

The evening came and the barrel was taken to the doctor's residence and presented with inevitable speeches.

The presentation over, the people went back to their homes and the doctor was left alone with the memory of their love. He went to the barrel and drew off a bit of wine and went into the house and there sat comfortably by the fire to enjoy it. The first sip was a shock. It tasted like water. He sipped again-it was water. He went back to the barrel and drew off some more, thinking that there must have been some mistake. But, no, the barrel was filled with water. He called the Mayor and the Mayor called the Council together and there were hurried consultations.

THE TRUTH WAS REVEALED. Everyone in town had reasoned: 'My little pitcher of wine won't be missed. I have so little for myself. The others will take care of it. The little water I substituted will not be noticed.'

It is a tragic story. It may never have happened, but it is the kind of thing that can and does happen when people refuse to accept their responsibilities.

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What does Mona Lisa represent to you? What's her relation to Mother Earth and the crying girl statue?

KR: For me, Leonardo Da Vinci was a true master of art. I'd like to believe that if he were alive today then he would take a great interest in 3D art. Apart from the Mona Lisa paying a small homage to Da Vinci, I recreated her with four hundred individual boxes, representing pixels of virtual reality but also blurred beauty. We really must open up our eyes and see the beauty around us, if we do it soon, we may weep with joy, if we leave it too late we will weep with sorrow. Our biggest fears as a world are Virtually Real.

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A big heartfelt thanks to Krystali! Virtually Real is a great contribution to the world of art in SL!

It is simply a fantastic view of a larger than life, beyond realistic work that really has a lot of meaning for a lot of us. We should all learn how to see the beauty that surrounds us. Life is full of  wonders and art. She captured it wonderfully.

Why don't you come on over to Virtually Real and explore while you can?! It's a glorious vision of what could be.

Have fun and enjoy the art!

~Victoria Lenoirre