To those who faithfully watch my submissions and journals - even if you don't always comment.

I really appreciate it.

So I've introduced the playing card project to my year group, as well as the hoodie project (both are solely for the benefit of the class). So far, I've been pretty psyched about both. But, as with all situations where one works in a group, there are the less enthusiastic members and those who just don't like me. Which is fair and well - everyone is entitled to their personal tastes, methods and preferences. I'd just like a little support. You know. I really and honestly believe that these are cool projects and that they'll benefit the year group, even raise some money for our graduation catalogue.

It's just that I feel a little discouraged now and then. I still think that the projects are really cool and that going through with them is a good idea. It's just getting it all together - and getting everyone to put in at least a little effort.

Don't get me wrong, there are those who have been WONDERFUL and truly encouraging. It's just a little hectic when a whole lot of people point fingers and complain, but never actually really DO anything... especially since I'm trying to benefit them, not disadvantage them or exploit them in any way.

Furthermore, the whole debate with the Varsity newspaper seemed to have sparked a few sore points - I notice the new humour section has an article flipping modern art the bird, in a manner of speaking - and a few extra articles published grumbling about the tightass pricks who dared raise their voices about an issue that concerned them - my and a few of my classmates' letters of complaint were published. Followed by a snotty response from the editor.

At least I notice we got under their skins a little. Now, if only they'd stop misinterpreting all our points and actually engage in intelligent debate (as opposed to emotionally defending the paper's rights to publish crass, tasteless smut disguised as satire). The issue is not the subject matter of the article. The issue is the paper's handling of the topic and the message it generates - basically, that unprotected, underage sex is okay, and so is getting people drunk to achieve these goals. Varsity, I don't give a shit if it was satire (which is highly debatable). It was a load. And it was in terrible taste.

I'm really not enjoying the feeling that our country's tertiary education system is rife with issues and prejudices that ideally should not even exist in educated sectors. It's really, really concerning.

I consider it my duty as an artist to engage in these kinds of discourses, to make a change for the better. The true value of contemporary art is in its social discourse. Being at art school has taught me some things about life. Stand back. Be critical - about EVERYTHING. Articulate your thoughts. Be constructive. You are responsible for your own crap. Keep your desk clean.

Interesting to note that only the art campus responded to this article. I find it ironic - artists are generally considered to be avant-garde and eccentric - the ones who are strange and desensitized, and lead unorthodox lifestyles... makes you think.

Honestly, my only intention was to raise (what I thought was an important) point. Not to attack freedom of speech.

"All I really want to know is where'd all the good people go?" Me and you both, Jack Johnson!!

So basically, I'm feeling a little flat right now. Like a bottle of soda that's been left standing open for too long. Only a few weeks left till exams, and about four practical projects left to finish, as well as an essay to write, and my black book to update and clean up. All in all, not too much. It's strange. We have so much more time, yet the pressures of performing are much higher than last year. There's nothing worse than being left to your own devices and realizing that your lecturers are not impressed with the fruits of your labour.

Luckily, my projects seem to be fairly spread between "acceptable, but needs more work" and "well done, but please redo the entire thing." (the last one is actually a compliment, believe it or not.)

So...
I'm not one to bitch and moan in my journals. Hopefully you'll notice that this was an attempt to discuss a matter or two sensibly! These are matters that honestly concern me.

In other news - I've reuploaded the new and improved version of this: which was previously only a little chunk of the original painting. Thank you very much to for talking me through the masking process needed to stitch the image! You rock, mousie!

And yes. I'm still taking commissions.

Peace
D

PS. If anyone is interested in buying custom decks of cards, let me know. I'm thinking of starting my own line.


Home Sweet Home: (thanks to Johann!)



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