Something I Cannot Live Without

In thinking of various objects I use daily: toothbrush, computer, clothes, contacts, bike, for example, they all seemed too mundane to write about and do not really say anything about me. So I thought for a while and though this may be other people's necessity as well I think that I would really not be able to survive without music. As an object, then i guess it would be my ipod that I use daily. However, music itself is integrated into every activity I do, and without it I would definitely suffer. For example, when I work, music constantly needs to be played. I prefer certain types of course but I remember a few shifts (I work at Woodstocks) where the music went off and it was too bust to fix it and also other times where we have sports playing instead, and those shifts were not pleasant. Although most of the time it is subtle, music keeps up everyone's energy and creates a different atmosphere. Also, I have been luckily enough to program a show on our school's radio station. Therefore I am constantly in the presence of all things music related and need to keep up with new bands so that I can create playlists each week. I have discovered everybody that works at the radio station is extremely friendly. It is one of the most positive atmospheres I have been a part of. I think this has to do with music as well.   Music has a way of connecting people and breaking boundaries. Being able to broadcast and talk about new artists, concerts, and albums with other people has allowed me to expand my knowledge and be more creative. Even when I have no music on, I still constantly have songs playing in my head. The song in the link has been on replay in my mind for the past three weeks (probably because I have watched the video a thousand times already). This represents the music I am shifting to integrate in a new show if I get to program this quarter. Last quarter I played electronic music, but this time I want to blend electronic with more laid-back indie type songs. I'm not sure how it will work quite yet but it gives me a chance to play other artists that I have discovered. I hope you enjoy! This song definitely makes me want to go on a road trip.

Freeeeee Day :)

Well, today I feel like I accomplished something: I changed my bike tire. Yes, this may not seem like a huge deal but in the past I have never even attempted to fix my bike when it has broken down. This time although I was offered help, i did not want to take it. So, after about 2 hours of minor frustration and numerous youtube clips entitled, "how to remove and replace a flat tire" I accomplished my goal, all by myself. Even as I write this now, my hands and nails are still filled with dirt. The upside of doing this without help means that next time I get a flat tire, it will probably only take me about five minutes to fix. We'll see what happens when I ride my bike to class tomorrow. If I am late to section, you know why. On a separate subject, I am pretty excited for section tomorrow. I have two ideas for puns and I think I will perform both of them. What I am more excited for is to see what everybody else has come up with. I'm still semi-nervous about the props game, but so far this assignment has turned out to be pretty fun.

Tuesday Concerns/Fears Regarding Class

When this question popped up on the contract slip in class I, apparently like many of my peers, decided not to answer it. I am not sure why I chose to ignore it but after going to section today I realize I do have quite a few fears and concerns about the class. Although I know this class will be fun and extremely worthwhile, I have had trouble managing my time in the past. In regards to art projects I know that they take a lot of outside class time as well which is difficult for me because of other obligations. Also, the assignments, reading, and visiting art exhibitions alone already seem like a ton of work. In a way, I am glad that I know this now so that hopefully I can plan ahead and not become overburdened. I have also mentioned that I am not usually outspoken in class or section. It is not that i do not have anything to say, but I just feel uncomfortable sharing sometimes. I know that a lot of participation is required in this class. Like in today's section, I am excited for the props game we plan on performing on Thursday but at the same time I am terribly nervous. I feel like this class will definitely be a challenge for me personally as well as academically and as an artist. Again, that scares me and excites me.

Monday Response to Lecture

So, i just decided on art as my major as so far I have thoroughly enjoyed the classes. Last year when I took Art 1C, Kip was a guest speaker and his was probably my favorite lecture. That is why when I saw he was teaching this class, I jumped at the opportunity to sign up. Art and Life are two extremely broad subjects so it is hard to decipher exactly what we will be doing. Yesterday's (or today I suppose) lecture seemed like a good intro into the class. I just took Art 1A where we were given numerous visual examples, so I'm glad that Kip utilized the same format. The use of contemporary and entertaining visuals helps me understand the subject more clearly. The only thing I am confused about thus far is taking notes. I found that it is difficult, especially in art classes, to figure out what to write down. Art in itself, is obviously more visual and hands-on so as of now I feel that going to lecture and actively participating will be enough for me to remember each class. In the past, participation has been my downfall only because I shy away from speaking up. Although it scares me, I hope that I can break this habit because as far as I can tell, I have no choice.