Mareea Farrasco’s “Face and Body Language” exhibition at NovaOwl Gallery is a stunning exploration of physical and emotional communication through photography. Farrasko’s artistry is on full display as she uses exposure and gamma correction techniques to push the boundaries of traditional portraiture.
The exhibition centers on the avatar as the subject of the photographs, showcasing the various attitudes and emotions that can be conveyed through body language and facial expressions. Each piece captures a moment in time, freezing a particular gesture or expression in a way that allows the viewer to connect with the avatar’s state of mind.
Farrasco’s technical prowess is evident throughout the exhibition, with each piece showcasing her mastery of exposure and gamma correction. The colors and tones in each photograph are carefully balanced to create a specific mood or feeling, enhancing the emotional impact of the images.
What sets “Face and Body Language” apart from other photography exhibitions is the way Farrasco seamlessly blends the physical and emotional aspects of her subjects. By focusing on the avatar’s body language and facial expressions, she captures not just their physical appearance but also their innermost thoughts and feelings.
Overall, “Face and Body Language” is a must-see exhibition for anyone interested in the art of photography or the complexities of human emotion. Farrasco’s ability to capture both the physical and emotional aspects of her subjects is truly remarkable, and her use of exposure and gamma correction techniques adds an extra layer of depth and complexity to each piece.
Artist Biography
“Greetings, I am Mareea, a Second Life photographer and the proud owner of IMAGO Land and IMAGO Art Galleries. I have been a part of this virtual world since 2009, and during this time, I have dedicated myself to capturing the beauty of life through the lens of my camera.
As a photographer, I am versatile and capture various subjects, from portraits to landscapes, still life to narrative scenes. Each of my images reflects a unique perspective, and I strive to capture every moment and mood, creating a dialogue between myself and my audience.
My love for pastel colors is apparent in my work, expressing a nostalgic and painterly mood. However, I am not afraid to explore other color palettes, adding color accents or contrasting dark shades and shadows to convey emotions, ranging from joy to fear, as they relate to my current state of mind.
As the owner and curator of IMAGO Land and IMAGO Art Galleries, I provide a serene and engaging environment for visitors to explore, relax, and enjoy the talents of highly skilled artists on display in our galleries. My goal is to provide a platform for artists to share their work and provide inspiration for those who visit my galleries.
Every photograph I create represents a small step in my personal journey, one that is full of noise and wonder. I invite you to explore my world and my vision through my Flickr page, where I share my latest works. Additionally, I welcome you to visit IMAGO galleries, where I hope you will find a peaceful space to admire the talents of Second Life’s finest artists.”
“Face and Body Language” exhibition by Mareea Farrasco at NovaOwl Gallery is a stunning exploration of physical and emotional communication through photography, showcasing her artistry and technical skills.
Don’t miss out on this must-see exhibition atNovaOwl Gallery!
Shane Spero is a talented artist and photographer who has always had a latent desire for photography and art since high school. However, life circumstances derailed his pursuit of these passions until he started his adventure into SL photography back in 2020.
Virtual photography opened up a whole new universe for him, where creativity is endless and only limited by the extent of one’s imagination. Shane’s preferred destination is the virtual world, where he loves taking pictures of scenes, but his favorite is capturing a person’s avatar in its most natural state when they are unaware. He aims to capture their essence in how he perceives them to be.
Shane’s inspiration for his solo exhibition, “The Art of Madness”, comes from his long-time fascination with the Joker, his favorite character. For a long time, he wondered what the backstory of the Joker would be if there were to be one. Then he saw the movie with Joaquin Phoenix, which gave the psychological profile of the Joker and his history, and it really grabbed him and inspired him.
The movie showed why the Joker became such a brutal character – his deprived life, feeling isolated, a tortured soul, an outsider of humanity, and the incredibly deep sadness that led to his insanity. Joaquin Phoenix’s powerful performance brought the Joker to life, and Shane could empathize with him, not with the violence, but why he cracked and became the savage villain he was.
Shane’s favorite pictures in the gallery include “Night Call”, inspired by the song by Kavinsky, which projects a dark and powerful vibe,
and “Behind the Mask”, which translates the lonely feeling of pain and vulnerability in secret.
“Hollow” portrays the hopeless desolation of the soul in broad daylight,
and “Madness” is about letting the freak flag fly, total wild mania.
Emotionally, Shane views art as grounding, especially when he feels stressed or needs to recharge. It’s calming and brings an inner sense of fulfillment and good vibrations, making it the only thing that makes him feel good at the deepest level. It’s the most natural place to put his energy, and that’s why it’s essential to him.
In May 2022, Shane participated in the Vibes Art Gallery group exhibition, “Almost Blue”, and in February 2023, he showcase his solo exhibition, “The Art of Madness”, at the Artsville Gallery. While Shane does not believe he has one particular signature yet when it comes to putting his mark on photography/art, he likes to think of himself as eclectic, exploring new techniques and different styles, and enjoying the process of learning.
Join us for an immersive experience into the creative mind of the artist as he takes you on a journey that explores the boundaries of sanity.
Artist Biography
“Photography had been a latent desire of mine since my high school years, and art was something I felt innately drawn to pursue in life. However, circumstances derailed my artistic aspirations for some time. Nonetheless, in 2020, I began my journey into SL photography, realizing that virtual photography opened up a whole different universe for me. Regardless of the resources one may or may not have to travel to the best destinations, in the virtual world, creativity is boundless, limited only by the extent of one’s imagination. Therefore, the virtual realm has become my preferred destination for photography.
My favorite subjects to photograph are scenes, but I find capturing an avatar in its most natural state to be the most enjoyable. I like to photograph avatars when they are not posing for the camera and are unaware, as I aim to capture their essence as I perceive them to be. While I do not believe I have developed one particular signature style for my photography/art, others may disagree. I prefer to think of myself as eclectic, always exploring new techniques and different styles, and essentially enjoying the learning process.”
Lika Cameo is an extraordinary artist who has been captivating audiences since February 2018 with her stunning watercolors, crayons, sketches, and digital art. Her works are inspired by the world around her, and her passion for drawing humans is evident in her pieces.
Lika’s art is not just about answering questions or solving problems, but rather about giving meaning, feeling, and beauty to the world. Through her art, she aims to awaken emotions, convey beauty, and evoke memories within her audience.
In an interview, Lika shared that her artistic process involves a journey of personal discovery. As a dreamer and romantic, she immerses herself in her art, continuously exploring who she is as a human. She is driven by strong emotions and curiosity and always eager to discover what feelings she might have awakened in her audience.
Lika’s luminous personality and love for art inspire those who come across her creations. Her works of art are a testament to her creativity and devotion. Visitors to her gallery can see how her space changes and evolves, reflecting her constant exploration and evolution as an artist.
For Lika, art transcends boundaries and touches the soul. To experience her work is to experience the magic of art. She invites all readers to visit the CameoArt Gallery and exhibitions in Second Life to discover the beauty and emotion that her art brings to the world.
This collection is a tribute to the unrelenting nature of time and its continuous motion through the circle of life. The idea for this collection was inspired by the “circle of life” and how it relates to time, which evolved over a few months, culminating in 24 stunning images that capture the essence of the never-ending cycle of life.
Lika’s artistic process involved using procreate to paint and sketch over each photograph, creating unique and mesmerizing works of art that are a blend of painting and photography. She also used landscapes and sim photos to connect each month with a specific setting, giving each piece a unique sense of place.
The exhibition is arranged over two levels of the gallery, and each photograph’s placement is intentional, adding to the overall impact of the collection. As you move through the exhibit, you will be taken on a journey through time, reflecting on the circle of life’s endless nature.
Lika Cameo drew inspiration for this collection from Elton John’s iconic song, “Circle of Life”, which perfectly captures the essence of the exhibit’s theme. In her writing, Lika reflects on the different elements of the exhibit, describing the feeling of falling endlessly through space and time, the importance of cherishing every moment, and the power of the stars to inspire us to dream.
“From the day we arrive on the planet And blinking, step into the sun There’s more to be seen than can ever be seen More to do than can ever be done Some say eat or be eaten Some say live and let live But all are agreed as they join the stampede You should never take more than you give In the circle of life It’s the wheel of fortune It’s the leap of faith It’s the band of hope Till we find our place On the path unwinding In the circle, the circle of life Some of us fall by the wayside And some of us soar to the stars And some of us sail through our troubles And some have to live with the scars There’s far too much to take in here More to find than can ever be found But the sun rolling high through the sapphire sky Keeps great and small on the endless round In the circle of life It’s the wheel of fortune It’s the leap of faith It’s the band of hope Till we find our place On the path unwinding In the circle, the circle of life…”
Evolution
“I was falling,
falling through the time,
space and stars,
sky and everything in between.
I feel for days
and weeks
and what felt
like lifetime across lifetimes.
I feel until I forgot
I was falling…
Endless…”
Enhancement
“Is it not funny
how
day by day
nothing changes,
but when you
look back
everthing
is different…”
Freedom
“Sometimes
you will
never know
the value
of a moment
until it
becomes
a memory…”
Empirical
“I know
nothing
with any certainty
but the sight
of stars makes
me dream…”
The “Endless” exhibition by Lika Cameo is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the intersection of art and the circle of life. It is a poignant and thought-provoking collection that will leave you feeling inspired and reflective.
Come to The Kondor Art Center and experience the beauty of Lika’s work for yourself.
Lika Cameo Biography
“I never called myself an artist until people near me started to call me that way, however I like to call myself a dreamer or an explorer. All it started with a hobby that always was an obsession, because visual art was and is a way I can see expressing myself. I studied art for a few years, however never had the intent to practice, focusing on a different carrier. Although, deep in myself I always wanted to do more, I always kept a sketch book, and I was always seen doodling something.
As the pandemic emerged, I found myself drifting more into art. In the last two years I had several exhibits in Second Life, each one was a story, an opportunity and a learning experience. The intent of my work is not to make changes or to solve problems, or answer questions, all I do is convey feelings a human can have through my eyes. Visual perception of feelings is an incredible dive for me. I am mostly focused on human body, I am drawn towards portraiture, use of lights and shadows with mostly a monochrome pailleté. I always challenge myself and experiment, I don’t have one specific style that I totally contemplate. I use several technics, mixed media, starting with hand sketching or taking pictures, to digital painting and editing. My most recent works in Second Life will start with the concept, the idea, tied to a specific theme or emotion. Usually, the idea, could be very spontaneous and simple, which grows and expands further.
One work piece it is like a story to me, it could change many times through its birth, therefore I find it hard to stop. I start with an image that has grown in my brain and subsequently I take steps to articulate that. I use my Avatars as mannequins to build the poses I need, followed by digital painting and editing. I lose track of time while working as am emerged into my world while sketching or drawing.”
Are you ready to step into a world of ambiguity and imagination?
Visit the Vague Disclosure exhibition, where artist Carelyna invites you to immerse yourself in her world of digital manipulation and traditional painting.
Experience a fusion of visual art and emotions as Carelyna challenges you to go beyond what the eye can perceive. Without titles to guide you, she encourages you to create your own stories and interpretations, allowing you to explore your imagination and discover the endless possibilities of art.
This exhibition is more than just an opportunity to view stunning visuals. It’s a testament to the power of art to transport us to new worlds, and to provide a therapeutic outlet for self-expression. Let your senses take over as you indulge in the power of creativity and self-discovery.
Don’t miss out on this unique and unforgettable experience.
Visit the IMAGO Galleryand let Carelyna’s art take you on a journey beyond the limits of perception.
Carelyna’s artist statement:
“Second Life gave me the opportunity to reach two dreams of my childhood. I grew up on a boat, and I took art classes and learned to paint on an easel with oil paints. This is the reason why I try to make my photos look like paintings. Each photography is a new fresh canvas for me. I just replaced the traditional tools with the computer.
My real life followed a different path but I held fast to my imaginary and artistic sensibilities. What I create is more a therapy for my soul, a playful way to express myself.
I do not plan anything in advance. I just let it happen. I like to explore new worlds and experiences, and sometimes I feel a special energy accumulating inside my soul. Then I stop and dive in a new world, a new experiment, following the feeling of the moment.”
Introducing a remarkable woman story who has found a unique way to use the virtual world not only for her personal growth and education but also to support and inspire creative minds, great souls, and intelligent seekers of solutions. Her impact on those around her in Second Life is immeasurable, even though her name may not be of utmost importance to her. Through her experiences in this virtual world, she has discovered opportunities that she never thought possible, talents she never knew she had, and built real friendships that have transcended the digital realm and become part of her real life.
For many, Second Life is just a place to explore their passions and hidden desires. But for this extraordinary woman, Second Life is a platform for learning, communication, and self-development. She has embraced the virtual world to expand her knowledge, engage with people from all over the world, and harness the power of new technologies to better herself and those around her.
Her story is not just one of personal growth but also of sharing and supporting others. She offers hope and encouragement to those who may be struggling and seeks to inspire others to explore the possibilities of Second Life. Through her actions, she proves that this virtual world can be a place of incredible value, not just for entertainment, but for personal and professional development, community building, and real human connection.
From Pain to Purpose
The journey of this remarkable woman started in Serbia, but her parents were artists who traveled around Europe, leaving her alone at home for long periods. Later, she moved to Croatia, where she was raised with a strong Christian religious influence and a deep sense of nationalism.
As a young woman, she suffered physical and emotional abuse at the hands of her family, with her father being particularly aggressive and violent, hitting her numerous times. Tragically, she was also raped and mistreated. At the age of 19, she became a mother, but her partner was an unstable and neglectful alcoholic who never took responsibility for their child.
During the war, she fled to Germany, seeking refuge with her child. The journey was one of immense pain and fear, and it was just the beginning of a long and difficult road to freedom. But she never gave up and educated herself, driven always by her passion for music and art, and focused on her child education.
Despite everything she had been through, she fell in love again with someone who turned out to be toxic, egotistical, and narcissistic. This relationship brought her more pain and suffering, causing her to lose everything, including her businesses, self-worth, and sense of identity. It was a time of complete darkness, but she refused to let it defeat her. With the help of meditation, positive thinking, and a deep trust in the future, she began to rebuild her life from scratch.
Over the past 16 years, the virtual world has been a source of comfort and creativity for her, providing a safe space where she can connect with others who share her passions. Through her experiences in the virtual world, she has learned valuable skills such as effective communication, collaboration, and building meaningful relationships based on trust and respect.
Today, this woman stands tall, with a new identity, a new sense of purpose, and a deep commitment to making the world a better place. Her message is one of love, of unity, and of the power of the human spirit to overcome even the most daunting challenges. Her life is a testament to the resilience of the human soul, to the strength of the human heart, and to the infinite capacity of the human mind to transform pain into purpose.
In the end, the story of this woman’s journey is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It reminds us that no matter what challenges we face, we have the ability to overcome them and create a brighter future for ourselves and those around us. By sharing our stories and supporting one another, we can break down stigmas and build a culture of love, hope, and unity.
Her story shows us the importance of forgiveness, letting go of the past, and trusting in a better future. It teaches us to take responsibility for our lives, seek personal growth, and never give up on our dreams.
We must remember that we are never alone in our struggles, and that there is always hope for healing and growth.
Let us all share our stories and support one another in creating a world filled with love and resilience.
In today’s digital age, our virtual presence is just as important as our physical one. With the rise of social media and online communication, our actions and attitudes online can have real-world consequences.
It’s important to remember that the people we interact with online are real people with feelings, just like us. It can be easy to forget this when communicating through a screen, but the impact of our words and actions can still be significant.
Treating others with respect and kindness online is not only the right thing to do, but it also reflects positively on us and our personal brand. Just as we strive to present ourselves professionally and respectfully in person, we should aim to do the same in the virtual world.
Additionally, our online actions can follow us and impact our future opportunities. With employers and universities increasingly using social media to screen candidates, it’s essential to be mindful of what we post and how we interact with others online.
In short, taking care of our actions and attitudes in the virtual world is crucial for building and maintaining positive relationships, as well as preserving our personal and professional reputations. By treating others with kindness and respect online, we can help create a safer and more inclusive digital space for everyone.
Today I want to take you on a virtual journey to the “Reflections” Art Exhibition at the OnceAgain Art Gallery. This exhibition features the stunning works of Magda Schmidtzau. This artist has combined her Second Life avatar compositions with images created using MidJourney to create a series of truly unique and captivating portraits.
As soon as you step into the OnceAgain Art Gallery, you’ll be transported into a world of mood and melancholy, setting the perfect atmosphere for viewing and appreciating each piece. The portraits are presented in monochrome and soft, minimalist tones, giving each one an extraordinary depth and emotive power. Maddy has masterfully blended her Second Life avatars with images created using MidJourney to create portraits that not only look like a credible subject but also capture their essence, evoking a sense of melancholy and atmosphere.
The light touch of post-processing further brings each image to life, making them feel like reflections of the essence of people rather than just digital counterparts. And the ephemeral touch of smoke at the gallery gives the whole experience an ethereal, almost dreamlike quality.
Maddy’s journey through Second Life has been a journey of self-discovery and expression, and she’s used her avatar as a canvas to express emotions and moods. Her aim with Reflections was to create portraits that looked like the subject in her mind and captured their essence, evoking a sense of melancholy and atmosphere. And she’s achieved that in spades, with each portrait leaving a lasting impression on the viewer.
The monochrome and soft, minimalist tones in each piece add extraordinary depth and emotive power, creating a series of original pieces that are truly captivating. The light touch of post-processing further breathes life into each image, encouraging us to view them as reflections of the essence of people rather than just digital doppelgängers.
The OnceAgain Art Gallery is the perfect setting for Reflections. The atmospheric setting complements the mood and melancholy of the artworks, making this a truly immersive experience. And the addition of smoke gives the whole exhibition an ephemeral touch, further adding to the dreamlike quality of the event.
In conclusion, “Reflections” is a celebration of Maddy’s journey through Second Life and a testament to her artistic talent. Her portraits reflect her subjects’ essence and evoke a sense of mood and melancholy that is genuinely captivating. So don’t miss this opportunity to witness this fantastic exhibition at the OnceAgain Art Gallery.
So, Second Life residents, this is an opportunity you don’t want to miss. Head over to the OnceAgain Art Gallery and witness Maddy’s unique and captivating works in Reflections.
I hope you enjoyed this virtual journey to Reflections. Until next time, happy exploring!
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