Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Knock, Knock.


Departure, by Alexandra Felix, is a short story submitted to the NPR Three Minute fiction contest. After reading several others, I have arrived at the conclusion that this one is my favorite. Many writers may feel threatened by the concept of such a short work. However, for Felix, it is not merely about the words, but what is told between them. Such an intricate back story rests behind simple dialogue-- it's wonderfully done. The detail work is succinct, yet it creates distinct images that assist in the portrayal. I enjoy the innocence of her son, and how the narrator reflects upon it in light of her current conundrum. All in all, a great work. Czech it out!



http://www.npr.org/2011/02/09/133542419/departure

Monday, February 7, 2011

Art is Perspective


The works of Wiley are certainly a foray into an alternative genre of art. Unlike most artists, who have a preferred style or era from which they like to draw technique and inspiration, Wiley uses a myriad of sources and places them in a unique "juxtaposition"with the subject. In this painting from his exposition in Brazil, Wiley duplicates the strokes of Surrealist Salvador Dali. He uses a unique perspective to alter the meaning of what is being there, often forming multiple meanings and images in one painting. This is an interesting way to attract attention on oneself as an artist. Original idea, new twist. 

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Six Word Memoirs

I hear a whisper of paradise.

one, two, three, four, five, six. 

Money in the Banksy

1. I really enjoy the obvious freedom and creativity portrayed in each artwork. Each piece takes into account location, population, public lens, and even style to illustrate a very specific message. These messages, because of their simplicity, generate a sense of open-ended questioning that people of all ages can relate to. The various interpretations are what make works like these fun to look at. (I am much too lazy to fix my dangling prepositions.) Political or social messages appear to be a major theme, but they take on a hint of comedy due to exactly how or where they are posted. I agree they are magnificent works of art. I smiled looking at them, even chuckled. That is enough for me. I am Switzerland with sensitive issues, so none of that here.

2. Anything can be viewed as artistic. It all depends on perspective-- the willingness of the beholder to view it so. Everything, even the simplest object in the world, is art in my mind. Viewing things from such a perspective opens the mind and garners a certain appreciation for the universe and one's place in it. As far as les noms de plume, they are applied for a number of reasons. Sometimes they are used to hide behind. Other times, they create an alternate persona. At the most basic level, however, they are used to create and personify an idea. This idea is used as a conduit and a front to share perspectives on certain subjects. Other ideas gain power when they come not from a vulnerable human, but from an immortal existence. Many leaders in the history of mankind have utilized art and symbols to represent them and their campaigns. A man can die, but ideas live on through the ages and personify the struggle of the people behind them.
"Ideas are bulletproof." -V, V for Vendetta


 Examples of symbolism, art, and idea-based identities as shown in the 2006 film, V for Vendetta.

3. Whether or not one wishes to project themselves is the question that must be considered. Some write just for themselves, to relieve the various stresses of life. However, writing for an audience as well as oneself is important to better oneself as a writer, as well as to develop a presence that transcends one's life. People may never remember your name, but a story is passed through generations. 

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

"... But which words?"

This photo does a wonderful job portraying the magical duality that is the ocean. One world above, another below. I enjoy this photo because of the colors, and the essence of island intrigue. 
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