Creating a Virtual Masterpiece: An Interview with Anu Papp-Scarmon

In the world of virtual reality, where creativity knows no bounds, Anu Papp-Scarmon stands as a visionary artist, embarking on a remarkable journey to bring history, art, and technology together. Her latest project, Le Jardin Romantique du Petit Trianon, promises to transport visitors back in time to the splendors of 18th-century France, specifically the Petit Trianon and its enchanting gardens. This ambitious endeavor showcases Anu’s deep-rooted passion for French history and architecture, merging historical accuracy with artistic expression within the immersive realm of Second Life.

To delve deeper into this creative masterpiece, we had the privilege of sitting down with Anu Papp-Scarmon for a comprehensive interview. Join us on this journey through the mind of a virtual artist, where history and imagination converge seamlessly to create a unique and captivating experience.

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An Artistic Journey Through Time

Violet Boa: Anu, you’re currently working on a remarkable project set in the virtual world. Can you tell us more about it? What inspired you to embark on this endeavor?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: Le Jardin Romantique du Petit Trianon. My love for French history and architecture was the seed that birthed this project.

Bringing Versailles to Life

Violet Boa: It’s fascinating that you’re recreating the Petit Trianon and its gardens. Can you share your vision for this project and what you hope visitors will experience when they explore it?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: The moment a visitor lands, they instantly feel as if they have dropped into a painting. The intricate windlight settings, the ambient sounds of nature, and the period music streaming on the sim—there is no doubt in my mind that each person will time travel back to a time of elegance and grace, for simplicity and solitude.

Immersive Artistry

Violet Boa: Your project seems to be more than just a replication; it’s an artistic endeavor. Could you elaborate on how you’re infusing artistic elements into this virtual environment?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: The ability to capture emotions through art, whether it be through dance, music, painting. To awaken the inner feeling of being in this environment in history reproduced through the platform of a virtual world.

Historical Accuracy

Violet Boa: Creating an authentic historical setting requires attention to detail. How are you ensuring historical accuracy in your project, and what steps are you taking to bring history to life?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: Each room within the Petit Trianon is studied, from floorplans to sculptures, to painting and furniture, to recreate an accurate real-life representation within Second Life.

The Experience for Visitors

Violet Boa: Walking through a virtual museum or garden can be a unique experience. How are you designing the space to engage visitors and make them feel like they’ve stepped back in time?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: The sim is designed to instantly immerse visitors into a bygone era. From the moment they arrive, they will feel the ambiance of 18th-century France, from the visual aesthetics to the sounds of nature and period music. As quoted by Nikolay Mikhailovich Karamzin, historian, romantic writer, poet, and critic, “and I see hills, fields, meadows, herds, a grotto…”

Blurring Boundaries

Violet Boa: Your project seems to blur the lines between art, history, and virtual reality. How do you see these elements intersecting, and what kind of impact do you hope to make?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: This project is a perfect union of art, history, and technology. It allows us to experience history in a way that transcends traditional mediums. I hope to make an impact by offering a genuine connection to the past, where visitors can not only observe but also immerse themselves in history.

Interactive Elements

Violet Boa: You mentioned interactive features. Could you give us an idea of what visitors can expect in terms of interaction and engagement within the virtual space?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: From a photographer’s dream to exploring and strolling through the many pathways throughout, to stumbling upon the grotto or sipping a cup of tea or playing a round of En Garde, there will be ample ability to engage with the project.

Collaborative Efforts

Violet Boa: Building such a complex project is likely a team effort. Could you tell us more about the collaboration involved, especially with your builder and other contributors?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: What began as a need for assistance in terraforming around the Petit Trianon ended up in a beautiful collaboration between two old friends that shared memories from a life of RP count in Second Life and a common love for the Petit Trianon and its gardens. As our friendship grows, the project continues to bloom.

Evolving and Growing

Violet Boa: Projects like these are often ongoing endeavors. Do you have plans to expand the project further, add new areas, or incorporate different historical eras in the future?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: Of course! The goal will be to expand by adding sims to incorporate the Queens Hamlet and/or the Grand Trianon. The time frame will remain the same, only expanding to include other areas surrounding the Petit Trianon.

Artistic Expression and Events

Violet Boa: Your artistic background is apparent in your project. Do you plan to host art-related events, exhibitions, or performances in this virtual space?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: Absolutely. The servants’ quarters for the Queen will be converted into an art gallery to host various artist exhibitions in Second Life. We are also pleased that we will eventually add the Queens Theater to host intimate productions. This will be an addition to the existing Muse Dance Co. theater.

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Technological Innovations

Violet Boa: The intersection of history and technology is intriguing. Could you delve into the technological aspects that power your project, such as the tools or platforms you’re using to create this immersive experience?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: The technological foundation of this project is built upon the robust platform of Second Life. Within this virtual world, we leverage a wide range of tools and features to bring our historical vision to life. From precise 3D modeling to intricate windlight settings that capture the essence of different times of day, we utilize the full spectrum of virtual technology to create an immersive experience that transports visitors to 18th-century France.

User-Generated Content

Violet Boa: Allowing users to contribute can enhance engagement. Are you considering incorporating user-generated content or collaborative elements within your virtual environment?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: At this time, our focus is on providing a meticulously crafted historical experience that maintains a high level of authenticity. While we greatly value user engagement and feedback, we believe that preserving the historical accuracy and artistic integrity of Le Jardin Romantique du Petit Trianon is paramount. However, we may explore collaborative elements in the future as the project evolves.

Preserving Cultural Heritage

Violet Boa: Your project involves recreating a significant historical site. Do you see this as a form of cultural preservation, and how do you navigate the balance between historical accuracy and artistic interpretation?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: It is most definitely cultural preservation. As an artistic creator, I approached this project by immersing myself in the character of its time. While there is much written about Versailles and the French Revolution, it was important to me to capture, much like a photographer, a moment in history that was a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of court and political life. In doing so, we aim to preserve not only the physical attributes of the Petit Trianon but also the essence of the era it represents.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Violet Boa: Making virtual spaces accessible to everyone is important. What measures are you taking to ensure that your project is inclusive and can be enjoyed by individuals with different abilities?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: The sim is set to open to the public on October 1, 2023, for 30 days, after which it will be accessible by group only. Membership to Le Jardin Romantique will be free until the sim is closed for group-only access, at which time there will be a fee to join. This approach allows us to maintain a manageable level of access while still providing an opportunity for a wide range of individuals to enjoy the experience.

Educational Value

Violet Boa: Historical projects often have educational potential. Do you have plans to incorporate educational components, guided tours, or information points that provide insights into the history and significance of the Petit Trianon?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: Absolutely. Throughout the sim, we will place artifacts that, when clicked, will provide historical information about the piece, whether it’s a painting or sculpture. In time, I would like to work with the educational system within Second Life to allow students to experience firsthand stepping into history. Providing educational resources and insights into the historical context is an essential aspect of our project.

Inspirations Beyond History

Violet Boa: While history is a central theme, are there any other sources of inspiration, such as literature, art movements, or personal experiences, that are influencing the creative direction of your project?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: My first major build as a builder was the Petit Trianon back in 2010, so I have come full circle to a place and time in life that I have held close to my heart for many years. Beyond historical records, I draw inspiration from artists and styles of the era, such as Johann Georg Weikert, Élisabeth Vigée-Lebrun, Doyen, and Lagrenée.

Feedback and Iteration

Violet Boa: Feedback can be invaluable for refining any project. How do you plan to gather user feedback and incorporate it into the ongoing development of your virtual masterpiece?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: We have implemented a guestbook within the Petit Trianon, where visitors can provide their feedback and impressions. Additionally, we will establish a group on Flickr for those who want to share their photographic experiences within the sim. User feedback is an essential part of our project’s evolution, and we are eager to hear from our visitors.

Emotional and Sensorial Impact

Violet Boa: Spaces can evoke strong emotions and sensory experiences. What emotions do you hope visitors will feel as they explore the Petit Trianon virtually, and how are you working to achieve this?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: With all the influx in today’s world, it is my hope that each visitor feels a sense of liberty from the mundane. To rise to the beauty of history and embrace all with grace. We aim to transport our visitors to a time of elegance, simplicity, and serenity. The sim is designed to evoke a wide range of emotions, from awe and wonder to tranquility and appreciation for the historical significance of the Petit Trianon.

Viewer as Participant

Violet Boa: Your project blurs the line between observer and participant. How do you envision visitors engaging with the virtual Petit Trianon, and what role does their active participation play in the overall experience?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: We will be providing period clothing for both men and women at the landing point. Although not mandatory, we ask visitors to engage with their experience as they stroll through the gardens. This participation can range from adopting the attire of the era to engaging in activities like En Garde, exploring the gardens, or attending historical performances in the Queen Theater. Visitors play a vital role in bringing the virtual Petit Trianon to life.

Embodying Creativity

Violet Boa: Creativity can manifest in various forms. Beyond visual representation, are you exploring interactive or experiential creative elements that visitors can engage with as they explore the virtual environment?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: Indeed, we are! We plan to host Royal Balls and hunts, enabling visitors to immerse themselves fully in the culture of the era. Additionally, the Queen’s Theater will be a hub for historical performances, providing a platform for artistic expression within our virtual world. These interactive elements will allow visitors to embody the creative spirit of the time.

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Art Beyond Boundaries

Violet Boa: Virtual reality can transcend physical limitations. How does the removal of real-world constraints influence your artistic vision, and how are you embracing the freedom this technology offers?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: The freedom offered by virtual reality allows us to transcend the boundaries of time and space, making it possible to recreate historical environments with an unprecedented level of detail and immersion. It liberates us from the constraints of the physical world, enabling us to bring the past to life in a way that was once unimaginable. This freedom empowers us to create a truly authentic experience that resonates with visitors on a profound level.

Art for Emotional Impact

Violet Boa: Emotional resonance often lingers long after experiencing art. What emotions do you hope to evoke in visitors, and how do you believe these emotions contribute to a lasting connection with the virtual Petit Trianon?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: With Le Jardin Romantique du Petit Trianon, I hope to evoke emotions of awe, nostalgia, and serenity. The experience should leave visitors with a lasting connection to a bygone era, where they can momentarily escape the stresses of modern life and immerse themselves in the beauty of history and art. These emotions contribute to a deeper connection with the virtual Petit Trianon, making it a place visitors will want to return to time and time again.

Future Collaborations

Violet Boa: Collaborations can open up new horizons. Are you open to collaborating with other artists, historians, or technologists for potential crossovers or expansions of your project?

Anu Papp-Scarmon: While our primary focus at the moment is on completing and perfecting the current phase of Le Jardin Romantique du Petit Trianon, I am always open to exploring collaborations in the future. Collaborations have the potential to enrich the project further and expand its horizons. However, for now, our main goal is to provide the best possible experience to our visitors and maintain the integrity of our historical vision.

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Anu Papp-Scarmon’s ambitious project, Le Jardin Romantique du Petit Trianon, is a virtual masterpiece that seamlessly merges history, art, and technology within the immersive realm of Second Life. Inspired by a profound love for French history and architecture, Anu has meticulously recreated the Petit Trianon and its enchanting gardens, capturing the essence of 18th-century France.

This immersive experience not only preserves cultural heritage but also invites visitors to step back in time, evoking emotions of awe, nostalgia, and serenity. Anu’s dedication to historical accuracy and artistic interpretation ensures a genuine connection to the past, making the project a true cultural preservation endeavor.

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Opening its virtual doors to the public on October 1, 2023, for a limited 30-day period, Le Jardin Romantique welcomes all to explore its captivating world. During this initial phase, membership to Le Jardin Romantique is entirely free, allowing everyone to experience the beauty and elegance of history. After the public access phase, the sim will transition to group-only access, with a fee required to join.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Anu Papp-Scarmon for providing us with this comprehensive interview, shedding light on the project’s technological foundations, user engagement, and emotional impact. Her dedication to transporting us to a time of grace and beauty through the magic of virtual reality is truly commendable. Le Jardin Romantique du Petit Trianon is a testament to the transformative power of art and technology, and it promises to be a must-visit destination for all history and art enthusiasts.

Violet Boa, Le Jardin Romantique du Petit Trianon – PR Representative

Unveiling the Vision: An Exclusive Interview with Terry Gold

In the realm of artistic expression, few names command as much intrigue and fascination as Terry Gold. Renowned for her captivating virtual photography within the immersive world of Second Life, Terry has carved a distinct path with her awe-inspiring creations. With an unwavering commitment to her craft and an uncanny ability to breathe life into his photographic sets, Terry’s work transcends the boundaries of reality and sparks the imagination of all who encounter it.

In this exclusive interview, we delve into the mind of Terry Gold, unraveling the inspirations, motivations, and artistic process behind his remarkable body of work. Join us as we explore the depths of his artistic vision, unveiling the stories and techniques that have made her a true virtuoso of virtual photography. Prepare to be captivated by the artistry and passion that flows through every frame, as Terry Gold shares her insights and perspectives, painting a vivid portrait of his unique creative journey.

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Your life without art would be …

Terrygold: Nothing would change for me, it would be my usual life.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

Terrygold: I tell stories about my life; everything I see and everything around me is a source of inspiration.

What is your work about?

Terrygold: I write short stories, often about my life, but also about what I see happening under my balcony. I’ve also made ecologist exhibitions. I create whatever flows through my mind.

How is the artistic process like there? Do you see an object/person/landscape first and then the idea comes up? Or is it upside down?

Terrygold: It’s very simple. I write a story, then I build the scenes to take the photos. My art exhibitions are entirely created in SL (Second Life) and start by writing the story on a notecard. All the scenes are created using objects available in SL, and the photos are taken directly here, using lights, projections, and whatever our beautiful metaverse makes available. No external editing is carried out (Photoshop, AI, or other image processing programs).

Your mantra?

Terrygold: My freedom ends when it invades other people’s freedom.

Currently, the best place for you in SL?

Terrygold: I don’t travel much in SL, so I couldn’t indicate a favorite place. But it would still be a place with little concrete and a lot of nature.

A question that moves you right now…

Terrygold: Like everyone, I also have things that move me deeply, but they are personal.

Is there a work of art in your life that particularly impressed you?

Terrygold: One night, while walking through Rome, I found myself in front of the Trevi Fountain. It was lit, the square deserted. This is my most beautiful memory of art.

Was there a key experience or has the artist profession always been your dearest wish?

Terrygold: No, I’m just doing it for fun and entertainment. I’m not an artist.

What drives you?

Terrygold: The desire to say something. Often what I do annoys, but no matter, I keep going my own way.

Do you feel understood with your art?

Terrygold: Some comments make me understand that my art has been understood, while others, on the contrary, are very far from what I meant. But everyone sees different things, and I think that’s normal.

Do you think that you can make a difference with your art?

Terrygold: No, I leave the serious matters in the hands of the true artists.

Do you think that everyone is an artist?

Terrygold: We live in an era of “do-goodism” that wants us to believe that we are all equal, that everyone can do anything. In my opinion, that is not the case. For example, we have to listen to singers out of tune. Art must give emotions, and not everybody can do that.

What does the term art mean to you?

Terrygold: The field of art is very wide. We start by admiring a beautiful painting, then we get lost in the beautiful lines of a motorcycle (Ducati Panigale V4 S). Art is almost everywhere, and each person has a different sensibility to appreciate it.

Are there any topics that you are particularly interested in implementing?

Terrygold: I wish I could do more to awaken the world from this mass hypnosis created by religion.

What is your strength?

Terrygold: The freedom to say whatever I want, free from any religious subjection.

What was the best advice you have ever received in SL?

Terrygold: Never enter your password in any hyperlink.

Your next projects, exhibitions. Where can your art be seen?

Terrygold:

Title: Rain
Gallery: T.A.G – Terrygold Art Gallery

Title: PM10 – Fine dust

Gallery: T.A.G – Terrygold Art Gallery

Title: My friend
Gallery: T.A.G – Terrygold Art Gallery

Gallery of photo
Gallery: T.A.G – Terrygold Art Gallery

Title: Women through Women Eyes (collective exhibition)
Gallery: SERENA CENTER FOR ARTISTS & THE ARTS

Terry Gold: A Visionary Photographer Crafting Second Life Realities

Terry Gold is a distinguished artist whose passion for photography knows no bounds. With an unwavering commitment to her craft, Terry has carved a unique path in the realm of virtual photography, capturing stunning images within the immersive world of Second Life. Her extraordinary talent lies in her ability to construct captivating photographic sets, utilizing only the tools and resources that Second Life offers, without any reliance on external editing.

Fueled by an insatiable desire to push the boundaries of artistic expression, Terry’s photographic journey is a testament to her unwavering dedication and boundless imagination. Her work transcends the confines of reality, seamlessly blending the virtual with the real. Through her lens, she weaves narratives that draw inspiration from her own life experiences, transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary visual tales.

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What sets Terry apart is her meticulous approach to the artistic process. Each photograph begins with the construction of a compelling story, serving as the foundation for the meticulously crafted scenes that she brings to life. Armed with a notecard filled with his evocative narratives, Terry carefully orchestrates the elements within Second Life, skillfully using lights, projections, and the plethora of available objects to compose his striking compositions. The result is a collection of awe-inspiring images that emanate authenticity and raw emotion.

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In her quest for artistic freedom, Terry embraces the belief that true artistry lies in one’s ability to communicate profound messages while respecting the freedom and autonomy of others. It is this philosophy that guides his creative journey, urging her to tread his own path even if it means stirring controversy or provoking diverse interpretations. With unyielding determination, Terry continues to fearlessly share her unique perspective, breaking free from the shackles of conformity and transcending the boundaries of traditional art.

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While Terry humbly dismisses the notion of being labeled as an artist, her body of work speaks volumes about her undeniable talent and creative prowess. Her photographs have the power to ignite emotions, provoke introspection, and challenge preconceived notions. Terry’s images invite viewers to immerse themselves in his visionary world, where reality seamlessly melds with imagination, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those fortunate enough to witness her photographic masterpieces.

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As Terry Gold’s artistic journey unfolds, she remains unwavering in her pursuit of uncharted territories within the realm of virtual photography. With each new project, exhibition, and photograph, she continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, weaving together intricate visual narratives that transcend the boundaries of Second Life and captivate the souls of those who encounter his extraordinary artistry.

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In an era where artistry takes on many forms, Terry Gold stands tall as a visionary photographer, fearlessly embracing the uncharted territories of virtual realms and creating her own distinctive realities. Through her lens, she invites us to delve deeper, to question the limits of perception, and to embark on a mesmerizing journey where art, imagination, and Second Life intertwine harmoniously.

Step into Terry Gold’s world and witness the extraordinary vision that unfolds before your eyes.

Blog by Violet Boa – Art & Event PR Representative

Illuminating the Sonic Tapestry: An Intimate Encounter with Tia Rungray

In the realm of artistic innovation, certain individuals possess the ability to transform sound into an ethereal journey that transcends conventional boundaries. Tia Rungray, the virtuoso electroacoustic musician, captivates audiences with his enigmatic compositions that blend piano and noise sound into an otherworldly tapestry. As we embark on an exclusive interview, we delve deep into the essence of Tia Rungray’s musical odyssey, exploring the origins of his unique sound and the profound philosophical underpinnings that shape his artistic expression. Join us for an extraordinary encounter that unravels the mysteries of Tia Rungray’s sonic universe.

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How did you discover your unique sound?

Tia: Usually, the ideal music recording and mixing form is noise-free, and there is a historical history of pursuing this. In this context, musical sounds need to be recorded more cleanly. Importantly, it is the ‘musical sound’ that we focus on at this time. The same can be said for noise music, which at first glance, is at the opposite end of the spectrum. The ‘musical sound’ in them is equal to the ‘noise’.

But I have a unique point of view here. Not all my compositions are based on a completely fixed set of values. Nevertheless, the underlying issue is that I wanted to emphasise the ‘beauty of the piano sound emerging from the flood of noise’.

The impetus for this came from curiosity.

It was during the period when I was a teenager and familiar with hardcore techno. Until then, my parents had often played rock music for me as a child, so I preferred distorted sounds. At the same time, I was also familiar with classical and piano music, so this background is so chaotic that if I tell this to anyone, they will not understand me at all!

At first, I was trying to make a hardcore techno track, trying to create a gabba kick sound. Eventually, curiosity whispered to me. I followed its voice, and sure enough, I applied excessive distortion to a recorded piano track.

A composer with ordinary sensibilities would have raised an eyebrow, but not me. I was captivated by the beauty of the piano sound coming from behind the distortion sound (noise sound). I then decided to share this with my listeners as Tia Rungray, and here we are.

Who were some of the composers that explored the combination of noise and music before you?

Tia: In ancient Japanese music, the concept of ‘sawari’ in shakuhachi playing has been carried over to the present day.

In the context of European music, John Cage tried to confine the noise of the concert hall within a time frame of “4:33”. Pioneers of experimental music such as Stockhausen and Schoenberg would also have blurred the boundaries between musical sound and noise in their attempts to transcend the boundaries of music theory.

In contemporary Japanese music, Toru Takemitsu created music with a sound design orientation, using Japanese instruments and instruments not found in European music.

Although this was accidental, Glenn Gould’s piano recordings expressed that his musical expression was not only on the keyboard by including his humming (moaning).

How did your interest in the piano develop?

Tia: My parents brought me a chaotic musical career, including piano music.

The soundtrack to The Piano by Michael Nyman resonated strongly with me as a teenager, as did the music of Erik Satie and Sergei Rachmaninov.

After leaving my parents’ influence, I was fascinated by Vladimir Horowitz’s playing. I am driven by a desire to copy his style; if only I had been born a few decades earlier!

The above was about the piano as music, but the piano as an instrument is, in my opinion, very sinful.

It can express everything from a silky sound to a wild roar, from a light step to a rock-crushing power. It is easy for us to understand why this instrument was initially called ‘pianoforte’. ​​Of course, it looks like a fascinating instrument to me.

What is the process you follow to create your unique sound?

Tia: First, record the piano.

Branch the audio signal from the piano track to the aux and apply noise effects.

Apply a deep reverb to it.

With the piano and the noise playing simultaneously, my music is complete!

What role does the Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) play in your music production process?

Tia: I could not realise my music without a DAW. It’s not so much a canvas in painting, though.

How do you achieve a balance between the piano and noise in your compositions?

It is not just about fader control on the DAW. Especially in performances, the volume of the piano and noise may be controlled by velocity signals from the MIDI keyboard.

How does your real-time control of the piano and noise contribute to your live performances?

Tia: The real-time control of the piano and noise allows me to immediately reflect on the finer movements of emotion that I want to express during the performance.

How does your use of a looper add depth to your sound during live performances?

Tia: When I use the looper, I submerge it in an intense reverb and a very long delay. Combining this with noise sounds creates an unrealistic and more immersive soundscape.

How has your electroacoustic music project been received by audiences?

Tia: I don’t know. But they are listening to my music, so I appreciate it and am pleased.

What genres and elements does your music incorporate?

Tia: Elements of music and genres I’ve been listening to are incorporated into my music—ambient, post-classical, noise music, hard rock, Japanese classical music, etc.

What was the response to your album ‘MindgEsso’ from composer Akira Senju?

Tia: Akira Senju said:

Tia Rungray’s world has no borders. It is music from classical, healing, heavy metal, ambient, and beyond. He has absorbed and evolved these essences uniquely, even crossing the border between music and everything else. It gives soul and groove to sounds that normally sound like music and creates a common déjà vu that we all share in the sounds of everyday life. The carefully selected and stripped-down pieces of sound are fragments of music that will have a life together with the various creations of the future to be created. I didn’t know noise could be so emotional. I heard the air of the future a little further ahead.”

What collaborations have you been involved in?

Tia: I collaborated with video projectionist Heberryyke Caravan for my performance ‘LIVE: Ghostmarch’ in September 2022.

It took over six months of preparation, designing a dedicated video screen to be installed within Second Life, and many test projections. It was a valuable experience for me and very emotional for me to be able to perform the show with the support of so many members of the team.

I have left an archive on YouTube for you to watch.

What recognition did your music video ‘Soft Strings’ receive?

Tia: First, it was selected for an arts support project by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, and then it won an award at the International Film Festival.

What is the purpose of the ‘Second Life Music Composers Directory’?

Tia: Livio Korobase said:

“I am building in a dedicated space, sort of directory for musicians that play own music. The goal is give a overview about all the people that spend time and energies composing own music and let people find in a easy manner.”

How did you become part of the ‘Second Life Music Composers Directory’?

Tia: My first interaction with Livio was for the SL Music LAB Summer Festival 2021 within SLEA. At that time I was asked to perform through my manager.

I have spoken to Livio many times since then, so I think he invited me to join the Second Life Music Composers Directory this time.

If music and art lovers in SL had not come to my performance, I would have quickly gone to another platform. That didn’t happen. So the fact that I can continue with my music performances in this way has helped me to get into the Directory. I am pleased and thankful to the community.

What is your goal with your music?

Tia: It is a more conclusive expression of the inner world of human beings.

What do you hope listeners will experience through your music?

Tia: Ideally, listeners should be able to use the themes of each of my performances and the titles of my improvisations as clues to the experience of immersion in the world of music. Ideally, though, if possible, they should not rely on words.

How does your music go beyond notes and rhythms?

Tia: You’ll know it when you hear it.

How do you view the potential of sound to evoke emotions and thoughts?

Tia: The history of human evolution shows that language is there to standardise emotions and thoughts and share them in society. Music is within a framework that is far removed from this standardisation.

There are sections of my music that take a lot of work to get to. For listeners, there are many things that they would like me to explain in words. In the past, some people have rudely asked me for lyrics. But for me, music expresses what words cannot.

Some songs, like ‘Specimens of Ghost‘, come with a poem, but that just sets up an opening for the listener’s interpretation.

Sound is a more primal evocation of emotions and thoughts. I am only faithful to that.

What is the philosophical underpinning of your unique sound?

Tia: Musical sounds in a flood of noise are beautiful.

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Tia Rungray stands as a luminary in the realm of musical innovation, a trailblazer whose artistry and vision transcend conventional boundaries. His compositions, an exquisite blend of piano and noise sound, transport audiences into the realms of the unknown, evoking emotions and contemplation. As we conclude this captivating interview, we are left with a profound appreciation for the harmonic tapestry that Tia Rungray weaves. His music serves as a testament to the boundless possibilities of sonic exploration and the power of artistic expression to ignite the depths of the human spirit. Prepare to be enchanted by the enigmatic melodies and transcendent philosophy of Tia Rungray’s sonic universe.

Tia Rungray

Tia Rungray Biography

Tia Rungray: An Exploration of Electroacoustic Soundscapes

Tia Rungray is an electroacoustic music project spearheaded by the self-produced Noami Takayuki, advocating for the convergence of noise and classical music. With the release of his debut album “Foresta” in May 2013, Tia embarked on a journey of live performances in both virtual and physical spaces, captivating audiences in Tokyo and Saitama. Influenced by the ideas of Erik Satie and John Cage, Tia focuses on instrumental music that incorporates environmental sounds, piano melodies, and even elements of noise. His unique style, a blend of ambient, post-classical, and noise genres, sets him apart from traditional healing and meditation music, inviting listeners into an inner world of profound expression.

Biography:

May 2013: Debut Album “Foresta”

April 2018: Album “MindgEsso” on the “Cat&Bonito” label, praised by composer Akira Senju for its futuristic aura.

March 2019: Music Video “Dancing Fly in My Head” directed by Kenji Agata, in collaboration with the Akira Senju Office, Tokyo University of the Arts COI, and YAMAHA.

July 2020: Album “Juvenile” released on the “Tanukineiri Records” label, featuring a collaboration with Yorihisa Taura.

August 2020: Music Video “Soft Strings” selected for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s arts support program, “Yell for Art.”

June 2022: Performance at the “Second Life 19th Birthday Music Fest (SL19B).” August 2022: Album “Ghostmarch” released. September

2022: Performance “LIVE: Ghostmarch” featuring video projection by Hebeerryke Caravan.

Takayuki Noami is an esteemed art and sound producer, multimedia designer, and the representative of Non-REM Studio. Born in Kyoto, Japan, in 1992, he embarked on his creative journey by entering the Department of Musical Creation and Environment at the Faculty of Music, Tokyo University of the Arts, in 2011. In 2013, Noami self-produced the electroacoustic music project Tia Rungray. At Non-REM Studio, he demonstrates his expertise in sound production, graphic design, and video editing.

October 2020: Best Music Video Director at the 1st Monthly Film Festival (Serbia) for the music video “Tia Rungray – Soft Strings.”

October 2021: Sound Design for the animated short film “Nomi no Sukune,” directed by Ryotaro Miyajima.

February 2022: Music for the PR Video “MUJI HOTEL GINZA,” produced by Triple Inc.

August 2022: Video Editing for the music video “Chage – Souiuhito.”

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Booking Contact: Tia Rungray (tialer.mimulus)

PR: Art Promotion by Violet Boa

*Kindly send your inquiries via notecard in SL.

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Official Website

Join Tia’s community on Discord for updates and discussions.

Follow Tia Rungray: Stay connected and receive Tia’s latest updates on social media.

  • Subscribe to Tia’s YouTube channel for captivating performances.
  • Follow Tia on Twitter to stay in the loop.
  • Connect with Tia on Facebook for news and updates.
  • Immerse yourself in Tia’s world through captivating visuals on Instagram.
  • Explore Tia’s photographic journey and artistic vision on Flickr.

Streaming Live Archive 2022: Immerse yourself in the full performance playlist.

Album Releases: Dive into Tia Rungray’s discography and experience his sonic landscapes.

  • Discover Tia’s albums on Apple Music.
  • Immerse yourself in Tia’s music on Spotify.
  • Support Tia’s artistic journey through Bandcamp.

Show your support for Tia’s creative endeavors: PayPal

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Mark your calendars for May 27, 2023, at 1 pm SLT, and join us at The Hexagons in Museum Island, Second Life, or tune in to the YouTube live stream. Experience the exceptional compositions of Tia Rungray, masterfully blending piano and noise sound. This event, organized by the Second Life Music Composers Directory, promises an unforgettable journey into the realm of unique musical expression.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to witness the captivating artistry of Tia Rungray.

flyer 05272023

Blog by Violet Boa, PR Representative

Interview with Lika Cameo

Lika has been in Second Life since 5 February 2018.

Inspired by music and poetry, challenges and constraints, but mostly by looking at simple things, emerge the stories that Lika use to tell us whit her work.

As she says, her works are not there to solve a problem or a question. Everything she does exists to convey meaning, feelings, beauty, to wake us up, to give us pause, to stir emotions or memories.

An dreamer and truly romantic, always silent and in the background, busy with new ideas, immersed in her own world.

In her works the original “story” use to change in the course of creation.

Thus, the continuous process of development to the “final product” is also a personal journey of discovery for Lika.

Driven by strong emotions and curiosity and with great devotion, Lika loves to draw with watercolors or crayons, always curious to discover from the viewers what feelings she might have awakened.

On the journey of her creative development process and with her luminous personality, she manages to inspire and immerse us in her artwork.

My deep gratitude to Lika for allowing me a glimpse into her world and my hearty invite,

to all readers of this wonderful interview to visit CameoArt Gallery and exhibitions in Second Life.

Lika,

Your life without art would be …

Lika: Life would not be possible. I am looking at simple things such nature and its beautiful creation. As simple as a spiderweb, how beautiful that is, or how a tree changes, or how wind moves leaves, or even the sound of rain, why not think that that is art too, for me is. Therefore, there is no life without art, I will be dead, nonexistent.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

Lika: I wonder sometimes too, where does it come from? Most times are my emotions, people that surround me, or as simple as looking at the sky of how clouds move. Many of my ideas pop up during a conversation, it is amazing how I get inspired by simple things. Music of course, poetry or visual arts, all contribute to my work. I like challenges and constraints, this is another source of how inspiration could come. In summary, I am looking at simple things and think beyond what I see, becomes a story I want to tell.

What is your work about?

Lika: The art I create doesn’t exist to solve a problem or an issue. It exists to give meaning, feelings, beauty, awaken us, pause, stir emotions, bring memories. I think everyone sees different things in it. Maybe I should ask my audience? What it is my work about? Is it about how you feel?

How is the artistic process like there? Do you see an object / person / landscape first and then the idea comes up? Or is it upside down?

Lika: I think humans have an amazing brain, sometimes you know it when you see it, it is like yes, and click. Sometimes is a discovery of light, colors and shapes. I get lost in time while working, I like the process as much as I like the “end product”. One art piece it is like a story to me, it changes so much through its birth, each step could be a piece of art, therefore I find it hard to stop.
I like change and I like evolution, I like morphing and transformation. If you happen to visit my gallery you can see that I use simple prims to build the space, and not a fully modeled architectural building in blender per say. This is intentional, this allows me to transform the space to what I feel, it is like a moving maze that never stops evolving.

Your mantra?

Lika: always explore the world with new eyes dream of places you have never imagined and discover a love so perfect that is almost never meant to be, think outside the box to put it in a short form.

Currently, the best place for you in SL?

Lika: this is a very hard one, hum it changes,

I would probably pick empty beaches, i like the depth of the oceans and infinite horizon.

A question that moves you right now …

Lika: There are questions that maybe should not be asked.

Is there a work of art in your life that particularly impressed you?

Lika: It is hard to outline one. I am sure there is more that I haven’t seen, that would impress me deeply.
If I can say that Pantheon impressed me deeply, the experiences I had through the day in that building left me in wow, the shadow and the light play just amazing, totally adore that.
If I think of a painting, it would probably be “The Kiss” by Gustav Klimt I saw in Vienna, I love Art Nouveau, and I am a hopeless romantic, thus this painting left me deeply touched.

What is art for you – now completely independent of the usual definitions?

Lika: Art is so broad that it can never be defined. Art to me it is not what you see or hear, it is what you feel. When I was in college, I did I very cool project where the exhibit was in a dark room, the intent was to touch and imagine without seeing, this is what art could be. Art has no boundaries unless we set them.

Was there a key experience or has the artist profession always been your dearest wish?

Lika: I think I am a dreamer, not an artist. Since I was a kid I remember myself drawing something, I always loved to riddle with my pencil. I did study art, I did paint for many years and was passionate about photography, but only as a hobby, however life got busy and I stepped away from that until recently. To be honest, I never thought about myself as an artist until people started to call me that way. I have a very good friend in SL that saw my first sketches, and said why not do this here in SL, so it started with that.

What drives you?

Lika: Emotions, and probably the fact I care too much about everything. I am a child that is curious and likes to discover. Therefore my curiosity drives me.

Do you feel understood with your art?

Lika: Art is seen and understood in many different ways. I don’t know if I am understood, and should I? I don’t think I seek that. However what makes me believe that do make a difference it is the odd email or text I get that my work touched a person, stirred emotions. And could be both, love or hate, art is there to be criticized.

Do you think that you can make a difference with your art?

Lika: I don’t know. I think more yes than no. Sometimes simple acts of kindness change people. We live in a world where the normal is hard to define and acclaimed artworks are voices, as I said not everyone will love it, but for sure will stir emotions.

Do you think that everyone is an artist?

Lika: Depend what you think art is. I think you can be one if you want to, you have to find yourself what art means to you.

Do you have any role models? If yes, which?

Lika: We are living creatures, we all look at someone at some point in our lives to learn. However I cannot identify one, I’ve learned many things from many amazing people, and not necessary famous or who had an impact on humanity. “Fight with kindness” they say…

What does the term art mean to you?

Lika: A way of expressing yourself.

Are there any topics that you are particularly interested in implementing?

Lika: I love the most complex challenges, I love working with people, therefore humans and their emotions, that is what I am mostly interested in.

What is your strength?

Lika: my weakness is my strength, I LOVE.

What was the best advice you have ever received in SL?

Lika: Don’t try to be someone you are not, not even in SL and don’t fear anyone’s opinion.

Your next projects, exhibitions. Where your art can be seen?

Lika: CameoArt Gallery, Semi permanent exhibit at Exploratorium Focus

Lika Cameo Bio

I am a dreamer that thinks that art is important, I am continuously discovering who I am as an human. I love working with watercolors and crayons, I do real life paintings, sketches also digital art. Among all the things I see around me, I love to draw humans the most, I just find joy in discovering what they feel through my paintings or pictures.”

Lika Cameo

Art Promotion

Interview with Adwehe

On 09/14/2018 Adwehe joined the Second Life community.

Adwehe believes that she would not function well without art.
Perceiving the works of others and creating things herself are essential for her.

She gets her inspiration from moments that move her deep inside, from interaction with others, or from her dreams, colors, nature, people or from the (virtual) exhibits. For Adwehe every medium that is available to her, be it (contemporary) art history or music as well as the magic of the moment are very inspiring.

Her work is about perpetual change, transformation, (in)stability, chaos, light, color, movement, slowness and different perspectives.

Strongly interested in functions of Second Life that works as a permanent platform, and where every single interaction is irreversible, there she finds the concept of time as very important.

As she said, she had dreamed of moving in her RL drawings, and for her SL is the perfect platform to realize this dream. In doing so, she is in constant exploration an ever changing drawing with lines, light and dark, color and whatever she can find to express herself.

Adwehe usually works on several projects at once, experimenting and creating things in the world and then taking them out again to rework them in reality, using and combining traditional and digital workflows.

With the mantra: “Be passionate and persistent, be yourself” and driven by the desire to be on a creative journey and express her feelings with the language of art and always with the desire to experience and learn new things, she pursues her great passion, thinking in big dimensions to realize her ideas.

I have known Adwehe for some time and I always experience her as a warm but also very reserved person. She always seems to be busy with the topics that bring her further in her artistic expression.

As a person she is someone who never puts herself in the foreground, someone who would not easily show her inner self to the outside…. and yet when she allows us to get a little closer, we find rich feelings and thoughts, emotions and ideas that inspire us and lead us into a strong emotional connection with her.

For me, her soul is reflected in her works, there I find versatility, clarity, sometimes chaos, often colorful and warm currents, shapes and lines that show a strong opinion, shadows and light that point to the amount of experiences.

I feel our friendship as a gift and I am very grateful for this wonderful interview dear, Adwehe.

Burn2 Light Trees
Burn2 – Light Trees – Adwehe

Adwehe,

Your life without art would be …

Adwehe: I don’t think I would function very well as a person, perceiving the works of others and creating things myself is essential to me. I probably would be dreaming a lot more then I do now if there was no art in my life.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

Adwehe: This can be from almost everywhere and anything, physical or non-physical, a moment, an interaction, a thought or dream, colors, nature, people, worlds, (virtual) exhibits, just any medium available to me, of course (contemporary) art history, and always music. There are many creative people in SL and the magic of the moment can be so inspiring as well.

What is your work about?

Adwehe: Everlasting change, transformation, (in)stability, chaos, light, color, movement, slowness, different ways looking. The way SL works as a persistent platform where every single interaction is irreversible like in the real world interests me and in this way the concept of time is important to me. I have always fantasized really walking inside my RL drawings, like in a dream. SL is the perfect platform to realize this dream. I explore an ever changing drawing using lines, light and darkness, color and whatever I can find to express myself.

Maison DAneli Untitled
Maison D´Aneli – Dancing Lines – Adwehe

How is the artistic process like there? Do you see an object / person / landscape first and then the idea comes up? Or is it upside down?

Adwehe: Its both ways and its a pretty chaotic process, I am mostly working on multiple projects at the same time discovering a lot about the possibilities of SL. Experimenting to create things inworld and take them out again to rework them in RL combining traditional and digital work flows and vise versa. Sometimes I have a plan in advance, many times I just start something and see if it interests me enough, try to find something I can connect to, sometimes ending up where I never thought I would. Recycling and using older works helps to create a dialog.

Your mantra?

Adwehe: Be passionate and persistent, be yourself.

Currently, the best place for you in SL?

Adwehe: There are so many beautiful places to visit and explore in SL and Sims disappear and (re)emerge all the time, after that the best place for me is home sweet home, where I work and hang out with my friends.

A question that moves you right now …

Adwehe: I have been doing a lot of exploration on different forms of expression and the possibilities of SL and RL work flows both digital and analog and how they can be mixed lately. I am looking for ways to unify those more now, to take some time to bring all together in a more coherent way. To give an example, the first immersive installation called ‘Lucid Dreams’ I made almost a year ago was in a 64m by 64m cube at Vegetal Planet Gallery which is still there at present, this was a big challenge for me because of the size and my experience with that was limited. I managed to use many different elements like photography, sculpture, scripting, sound design, color, light and animation. So I want to focus more on immersive though I will keep painting.

Campbell Coast Artists Village Crops in Black and White
Campbell Coast Artist Village – Crops in Black and White – Adwehe

Is there a work of art in your life that particularly impressed you?

Adwehe: I can’t answer that with just one work in mind. Some of the artists I value very close are Anish Kapoor, Cecily Brown and Mark Rothko. Also I was always fascinated by kinetic and light art.

What is art for you – now completely independent of the usual definitions?

Adwehe: Its like a thermometer of past present and future, a compass of our ways of perceiving and interacting with ourselves, each other and the world.

Was there a key experience or has the artist profession always been your dearest wish?

Adwehe: This has been with me for as long as I can remember.

What drives you?

Adwehe: Being on a journey.

Do you feel understood with your art?

Adwehe: I am not sure about that, sometimes I don’t even understand it myself, every individual person sees in their unique way and I don’t bother thinking about it as being art to much in the first place. Then again when on some level an object or thought moves me or keeps holding my attention for a little while, I am satisfied.

Janus Gallery II Black Mirror Musings
Janus Gallery – Black Mirror Musings – Adwehe

Do you think that you can make a difference with your art?

Adwehe: Probably not, still art is a very subjective experience. Some people said they could feel completely and wonderfully lost in it, being there in the moment, enjoying the constant changes. So maybe a little.

Do you think that everyone is an artist?

Adwehe: No, but I think most people can, if they are willing to express their relation to the world, the way they see and feel, in something that could be labeled as art.

Do you have any role models? If yes, which?

Adwehe: No.

What does the term art mean to you?

Adwehe: Art is not easy to express in words, although many words have been used to describe it. Maybe every form of art is a language in itself. So one way to describe art could be as a form of play defining and breaking out of its own rules where the rules can be anything.

Are there any topics that you are particularly interested in implementing?

Adwehe: Learn more about how to use mesh sculpture tools and sound design.

What is your strength?

Adwehe: Working with SL light, color, animation, sometimes improvisation.

What was the best advice you have ever received in SL?

Adwehe: Take your idea or idea’s and really stick to them as one singular passion, think big, dig into all aspects to realize that idea.

Your next projects, exhibitions. Where your art can be seen?

Adwehe: ‘Unfold’ by Adwehe and Serra Qendra

I was so very happy to been rewarded a half region art grant at Burn2’s The Great Unknown event this October. Serra Qendra an i have been working on a build titled ‘Unfold’. This place does not tell you where to look, and is much the reflection of a journey starting from sketchy ideas and openness. Rather then to reproduce and illustrate a concept or theory we allowed process and journey to guide us, let mistakes become focal points and respect the things for what they are. Some of the pieces are mistakes, some of them are unfinished. Deliberately unfinished, they represent ‘beginnings’. Although some things are aesthetically pleasing, it’s not meant to do that so very much. All this is, and what we are doing, is being in the moment with an open and playful mind. Maybe that could be an approach to explore a new land, or world. The great unknown, the world we are entering in every second as the clock ticks, and yes you will find your path. Make sure to have sound on to enjoy the Playa desert winds, the random lighting is interactive to play with.

The main event will be from 8 to 17 October. All art builds will remain on the Playa one week after the 17th.

On Wednesday 13 October we will perform a color dance with Les Chats Furieux.

Unfold by Adwehe and Serra Qendra

At Janus Gallery I have a small space to do some light experiments.

On 26 October there will be an exhibition at my gallery at Campbell Coast Artists Village.

For upcoming December I am working on a project at La Maison dʼAneli

For February 2022 I am working on a project at Nitroglobus Gallery.

Adwehe Bio

“I have always fantasized really walking inside my RL drawings, like in a dream. SL is the perfect platform to realize this dream. I explore an ever changing drawing using lines, light and darkness, color and whatever I can find to express. Creating depth and perspective expanding the dimensions of the exposition room, mostly abstract and animating.

Experimenting with different art forms in Second Life including painting, light, sound and immersive installations. Still relatively new to Second Life’s vast possibilities, I just love to experiment searching for the mysterious randomness that can occur when working with what’s available in the prim world of second life.

Influences I love are light art and kinetic art, minimalism and color field painting. I mix textures from my traditional RL drawings, acrylic and oil paintings inside and outside of SL to achieve patterns, moods and motions.

Adwehe

Love Love Factory Inherent
L&L Factory – Inherent – Adwehe

Lucid Dreams @Vegetal Planet & Lundy Art Gallery and Museum

Lundy Art Gallery and Museum Light Art Project
Lundy Art Gallery and Museum – Light Art Project – Adwehe

Exhibitions 2020 – 2021

  • April 2021, Janus Gallery II, Black Mirror Musings
  • March 2021, Love & Love Gallery, Inherent – Blog Info
  • Jan 2021, UASL Pyra – Panel animations experiment
  • Dec 2020, Maison D’Aneli – Dancing lines
  • Dec 2020, Lundy Art Gallery – Light Art experiment – Blog Info
  • Sept 2020, Vegetal Planet Gallery – Lucid Dreams
  • July / Sept 2020, Zack Herr Mann Universum – Color Fields.
  • May 2020, Burn 2 Between the stars – Sky star lights
  • Februari 2020, Maison D’Aneli – Dévouement – Blog Info
  • Januari 2020, Chelsea Hotel’s Gallery 23
  • Januari 2020, Maison D’Aneli – Untitled – Blog Info
  • October 2019, Burn 2 Metamorphoses – Introspection

Art Promotion

Interview with Mareea Farrasco

Mareea Farrasco logged into Second Life for the first time on 12/31/2009.

Life without art for her would be like imagining the beauty of nature without the power or gentleness of words.

Mareea finds her inspiration in small, insignificant things or breath-taking landscapes, from the colors of the sky and the water, from other works of art, or from the outside world as well as from her inner universe…

The inspiration awakens for Mareea like an urgent need to express something, without any preparation in advance. Her photography is mostly about the outside world, that can be full of joy, or just gray like a gray day, sometimes even dark, when a black clouds covers her “soul landscape” with fear.

She is very grateful and humble human, thankfully for everything she has and for everything she gets from others and above all she is grateful for everything she can personally give to the world she lives in.

Her home in SL are – Imago Land and Art Galleries, where she lives out her love for decorating, photography and where she opens a spaces for other artists.

Moved by the great artistic values of mankind, as well as countless artists and works of art that have shaped her whole life, she dives into the “rainbow of beauty” whenever she can.

Since childhood she has participated in children’s performances, played the piano and singing and dancing, as well as literature and poetry have had a special place in her life.

With the hope that she can reach the heart or mind of others, and strongly driven by deep love for all the amazing things that surround her both in SL and RL, like nature and culture, she wants to contribute to this beauty *of being*.

I would like to use the word “dulcet” to describe my experience with Mareea.

Her personality always leaves me with a sweet and pleasant feeling.

I always see her acting happily in the background, and I witness someone who appreciates the things she loves and does, with her personality and photographic works she manages to win our hearts and inspire us with an ease.

My heartfelt thanks for our creative and truly art full friendship, dear Mareea.

Mareea,

Your life without art would be …

Mareea: I can’t imagine my SL or RL life without art (not that I’d be a RL artist, I am just a consumer of all kind of arts). Life would be an empty space … no colors, no sounds, no joy. It would be like imagining it without the beauty of the nature or without the power or the softness of the words.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

Mareea: I don’t know… From small, insignificant things or from large landscapes, from the colors of the sky and the water, from others art works, from the outside world or from my inner universe… Inspiration comes all of a sudden, like an urgent need to express something, without any preparation in advance.

What is your work about?

Mareea: My photos are mostly about the outside world, but visualized through my mind or through my soul. They can be full of joy, in a sunny day, simply gray, like a gray day, when nothing significant happens, or dark, when a black cloud covers with anxiety my “soulscape”. Sometimes I am telling a story, sometimes my eyes discover an object somewhere, put in a certain light, or a face who asks for a portrait. I have to confess though, I’d like to be able to create amazing portraits, but I never really succeeded to make one. There is always something important missing in them…

How is the artistic process like there? Do you see an object / person / landscape first and then the idea comes up? Or is it upside down?

Mareea: Almost every time I start a project trying to materialize a certain idea, things get crazy, going their own way, forcing me to follow their path, not mine. So I usually just let my momentary inspiration take the lead and then see what happens.

Your mantra?

Mareea: I am not sure I have one. Generally I try to avoid truisms. And no words of wisdom of my own:) The most frequent formula I use is, I think, “thank you”. I am grateful for what I have and for what I get from others, or even for what I can give to the small world in which I am living.

Currently, the best place for you in SL?

Mareea: I feel really at home in my sim – IMAGO Land and Art Galleries. I discovered in time my passion for landscaping and decorating and finally I could materialize it here. This is though what we could call a never ending “work in progress”.

Painting the Silence
“Painting the Silence” by Mareea Farrasco

A question that moves you right now …

Mareea: Related to the previous sequence of this interview: How could I get more prims for less money ? A rhetoric question, of course. But I think this is one of the main issues for lot of SL builders…
Emotionally, I am moved right now by the spring and its dose of hope, in spite of the anguishing things happening all around us in the real life – the pandemic, the stupidity of this new form of “talibanism” against the great artistic values of the humanity, and I could continue indefinitely…

Is there a work of art in your life that particularly impressed you?

Mareea: Well, I can’t put my finger on one particular work of art. There are so many, in the seven+ art domains, which have marked significantly my entire life, making me who I am today, that it would be unfair to choose one from this “rainbow” of beauty.

What is art for you – now completely independent of the usual definitions?

Mareea: Art is a space to live in, a thin air to breath easily, a flow, a tide, an every day’s bread, milk and honey… and I could go like this on and on ….

Was there a key experience or has the artist profession always been your dearest wish?

Mareea: A wish, since I was a kid. I used to play the piano, I was “directing” kid shows in the courtyard of our home, I was singing and dancing like crazy all day long during the summer vacations … All that turned, in time, into something less artistic, but related to art, literature, poetry.
Oh, and here is another confession: I am a lousy RL photographer.

Boat on the shore
“Boat on the shore” by Mareea Farrasco

What drives you?

Mareea: The deep love for all the amazing things surrounding both my SL and RL, like nature and culture. The wish to add my small contribution to this beauty.

Do you feel understood with your art?

Mareea: Mostly yes. But I don’t think this is so important. The joy of sharing makes me continue to take photos, to add to them feelings and thoughts through the shapes, colors, lights and shadows. And hoping that I somehow could get to a few people’s hearts or minds.

Do you think that you can make a difference with your art?

Mareea: We all are different. Everything we do or say expresses who we are. We are looking at the same objects, landscapes, persons, etc., but we see them differently. So yes, from this point of view, we could say my pictures make a difference.
But if we are speaking about creating something revolutionary in art, something that represents a new style, a new artistic direction, something meant to remain in the history of art, well, I hardly dare consider myself an artist.

No dinner tonight
“No dinner tonight” by Mareea Farrasco

Do you think that everyone is an artist?

Mareea: No. Real SL artists are not so many. “Artists” like me, you can find them everywhere, in galleries, on Flickr, in magazines, blogs and so on… Some of them good enough, others considering themselves good enough to show their snapshots, sculptures, 3D installations, etc.
SL is a place for everybody, and God, in his magnanimity, let us all take our “artistic” part in this roleplay.

Do you have any role models? If yes, which?

Mareea: Well, I wish I could make pictures in the manner of Vermeer’s or the impressionists masterpieces… But there is always a gap between wishes and reality…

What does the term art mean to you?

Mareea: There are a lot of dictionary definitions of art, none of them totally satisfying. “Art” is one of those so called “vague terms”, redefined periodically, in this collective effort to precise it’s senses.
My subjective definition of the term, you have it already in a previous section of the interview.

Trubled Sky
“Trubled Sky” by Mareea Farrasco

Are there any topics that you are particularly interested in implementing?

Mareea: No, not necessarily. For me topics come and go depending on the flow of the momentary inspiration.

What is your strength?

Mareea: Perseverance (one might call it “stubbornness”, without being in a huge error), facility and rapidity in working (which can cause damages concerning the accuracy of what I am producing). So my strengths are accompanied by the correspondent weaknesses, in a precarious balance…

What was the best advice you have ever received in SL?

Mareea: I think it was, some years ago : “Learn and refine your English, darling !” I am still working on it…

Your next projects, exhibitions. Where your art can be seen?

Mareea: IMAGO Art Gallery & new upcoming exhibition “Miscellaneous” at the Konect Art Gallery on 16th October

Poster 1

Before the Storm
“Before the Storm” by Mareea Farrasco

Mareea Farrasco Bio

“I’m a SL photographer and the owner of IMAGO Land and IMAGO Art Galleries, a Nature, Art & Culture area open for visitors who love to explore, relax, take photos or admire the highly talented artists works displayed in the galleries.

In my long SL existence (“birthday” – 12/31/2009), I pursued my own photographer carrier, exposing my pictures in several art galleries, The Eye, Club LA Gallery, DIX MIX Gallery, Nitroglobus Roof Gallery, ArtCare Gallery, Hoot Suite Art Gallery among them, and hosted, as owner and curator of IMAGO galleries an important number of exhibitions, collective ones like for instance “Furillen at its best”, or “Happy days at NorderNey”, and a lot of individual ones.

My photography covers a large field, from portraits to landscapes, from concrete to metaphoric images, from narrative scenes to still life pictures.
Pastel colors are my favorites, expressions of a nostalgic painterly mood. But sometimes I add some color accents or, on a contrary, some dark shades and shadows, showing joy or fears, related to my feelings of the moment.
The pictures I create are small steps in the indefinite journey to myself, in the middle of the noisy yet amazing Second Life.”

Mareea

The road...
“The Road” by Mareea Farrasco

Art Promotion

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