Story
What stories are worth telling?
Stories that give some sort of message or greater meaning are worth telling. Stories that inspire or invoke emotions in people.
Who can tell a story? Who should tell stories?
I think everyone tells stories in some way or another. And I think everyone should because we all have stories to tell.
Who reads stories? Who should?
Everyone should read stories because I know personally that some stories have shaped me into the person I am today. Again, just as everyone tells stories, everyone is always reading stories in some way or another.
What are the parts of a story?
Traditionally, a beginning, middle, and an end make up a story. However, I believe a story can be presently going on, so some stories could always have a middle in a way.
Do all stories follow a pattern?
I would say most stories do, the beginning, middle, and end. Some do not and are more sporadic.
Can a story be told without words?
Of course. I feel like a lot of stories we see going on around us are completely silent, which gives us the room to interpret the stories we read or see.
How do photographers use the camera to tell a story?
Photography places the viewer into one specific moment. Rather, one still of dialogue or action. This still is directly in the middle of something and tells us what is happening, what has happened, or what will happen.
Stories that give some sort of message or greater meaning are worth telling. Stories that inspire or invoke emotions in people.
Who can tell a story? Who should tell stories?
I think everyone tells stories in some way or another. And I think everyone should because we all have stories to tell.
Who reads stories? Who should?
Everyone should read stories because I know personally that some stories have shaped me into the person I am today. Again, just as everyone tells stories, everyone is always reading stories in some way or another.
What are the parts of a story?
Traditionally, a beginning, middle, and an end make up a story. However, I believe a story can be presently going on, so some stories could always have a middle in a way.
Do all stories follow a pattern?
I would say most stories do, the beginning, middle, and end. Some do not and are more sporadic.
Can a story be told without words?
Of course. I feel like a lot of stories we see going on around us are completely silent, which gives us the room to interpret the stories we read or see.
How do photographers use the camera to tell a story?
Photography places the viewer into one specific moment. Rather, one still of dialogue or action. This still is directly in the middle of something and tells us what is happening, what has happened, or what will happen.
Her head snapped down toward her high-heeled shoes. She could hear the harsh thunder of male voices taunting her, laughing at her. So many comments and exclamations flew past her ears that it was hard to catch every word. She could make out, "you're holding it the wrong way, sweetheart," and "you might break a nail." She imagined taking the ax into soft hands and gripping it tight with manicured fingers until her knuckles were white underneath her rings. She imagined lifting the ax high over her shoulders so her freshly-shaven armpits would show. She imagined hurling the ax with all of her might toward those men with the booming voices. And she did. She threw her ax so adequately and firmly that it hit the target straight in the center. The male judges standing around the slab of wood flinched in unison, in surprise, in fear. She stepped off the podium and sunk her pink heel into the soft March earth of the fairground.
Artist Statement
Before it began, she thought she might die without him. The sun only rose and set with him, and she wouldn't have had it any other way. She felt the way he wrapped his arms around her accepting shoulders, his promises to protect her, his warm eyes watching every move. The sunshine on her legs provided her seemingly eternal warmth. And then he started telling her how to live her life. He would scream at her until she almost drowned in her tears, but he was always there to resuscitate her. His breath, warm and inviting, blew into her lungs until she agreed to forgive him. Everything was fine, great, perfect, but her friends couldn't help but notice the lack of light in her eyes. Her smile no longer widened, just perpetually stayed pleasant. Alas, no one said anything. They never do. Then came the day he backed her against the freezing cold wall, voice filling the whole room in something like hatred. It was her fault, she knew that. She buried her head into her arms, but not even her tears could save her now. No one ever saw her genuine smile again. "I hate you for making me do this!" he wailed. Her arms came up in defense, a bruised and weak shield. He clawed his way around that blackened armor until she got what she deserved, for the moment. But it was always the same story, different day. She always wondering what dying would feel like; she thought it would be without him. Though with his hand around her throat, she could only imagine the world without him. With all of her might, she tried to tell God or Jesus or anyone to save her from this fate she always swore would never be hers. But she didn't see God or Jesus or anyone but him in all his red-faced, evil glory. With a few more sorry attempts for screams, she let go because he wouldn't. No, no one ever saw her smile again, except for in that casket. At least everyone could rest easy knowing that her bruises were covered by long sleeves and her choke bruises by her favorite wool scarf.
Before it began, she thought she might die without him. The sun only rose and set with him, and she wouldn't have had it any other way. She felt the way he wrapped his arms around her accepting shoulders, his promises to protect her, his warm eyes watching every move. The sunshine on her legs provided her seemingly eternal warmth. And then he started telling her how to live her life. He would scream at her until she almost drowned in her tears, but he was always there to resuscitate her. His breath, warm and inviting, blew into her lungs until she agreed to forgive him. Everything was fine, great, perfect, but her friends couldn't help but notice the lack of light in her eyes. Her smile no longer widened, just perpetually stayed pleasant. Alas, no one said anything. They never do. Then came the day he backed her against the freezing cold wall, voice filling the whole room in something like hatred. It was her fault, she knew that. She buried her head into her arms, but not even her tears could save her now. No one ever saw her genuine smile again. "I hate you for making me do this!" he wailed. Her arms came up in defense, a bruised and weak shield. He clawed his way around that blackened armor until she got what she deserved, for the moment. But it was always the same story, different day. She always wondering what dying would feel like; she thought it would be without him. Though with his hand around her throat, she could only imagine the world without him. With all of her might, she tried to tell God or Jesus or anyone to save her from this fate she always swore would never be hers. But she didn't see God or Jesus or anyone but him in all his red-faced, evil glory. With a few more sorry attempts for screams, she let go because he wouldn't. No, no one ever saw her smile again, except for in that casket. At least everyone could rest easy knowing that her bruises were covered by long sleeves and her choke bruises by her favorite wool scarf.
Identity
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What choices do you make in your own outward appearance?
It depends on the day. If I want to feel more confident, I will dress in something that I think looks good on me. However, if I do not have much time or I'm too tired, I won't put in much effort.
What can you tell about a person or group of people by what they are wearing or how they look?
I really don't think you can tell anything by the way someone looks. You might think that if you see a girl wearing short shorts and a crop top that she's "promiscuous" when, really, whether she is or no is not your business.
What are examples of some social groups in youth culture?
I would say there are over-achievers, slackers, religious people, not religious people, athletic people, artsy people, "goth/emo" people, the list goes on.
Do people in social groups dress alike? Speak alike? Act alike?
For the most part, I would say yes. However, I know that my own social group offers a varying amount of people, so not necessarily.
Is there any individuality within a social group?
Of course. Without the individuals of the group, there would be no social group at all.
Are there expectations for being a part of a group?
I think so. For example, in my group of friends, we are all expected to be smart in specific subjects. In another way, I think being athletic is a prerequisite of being popular.
Write a list of all the social groups you can think of that exist inside of youth culture.
As I said before, popular people, artsy people, over achievers, slackers, athletic/popular people, "goth/emo" people.
What do these groups wear? Accessories? Jewelry?
I have never really associated accessories or jewelry with any specific groups.
How would you describe their fashion? Hairstyle? Tattoos?
Generally, I would describe slackers and athletic people as having a more laid back style. On the other hand, I think over achievers and artsy people tend to care more about fashion. I've really never noticed a large amount of youth with tattoos in any group.
Where do they hang out?
I think slackers/druggies tend to hang out at parks -- this is what I have seen, at least. I think artsy people/over achievers generally hang out at each other's houses. Athletic people hang out at sporting events, I suppose. Popular people go to parties frequently, I have heard.
Do they have a reputation?
Yes, they are expected to be or act certain ways because of the stereotypes attributed to them.
What are assumptions or stereotypes of this group?
It is generally assumed that popular people all have great lives, artsy/over achievers are really smart at everything, emo/goth people sacrifice babies to Satan, slackers don't care about anything, and athletic people are stereotyped as stupid or bullies.
What do you see? Be literal.
I see Demi Lovato with multi-colored hair in front of a red background. The text on the magazine is promising fashion tips, confidence, clear skin, money saving tips, and how to obtain hot jeans.
What does that imply or mean?
It implies that girls have things that they should want to change about themselves, such as their skin, fashion, confidence, and money. It also implies that Demi Lovato is a teenager, which she is not. This really shows how sexualized girls are, as they are represented by a woman and not a teen.
What is the big idea?
The big idea is to sell and to do that, magazines like that really count on girls' insecurities.
Theme, tone, or mood?
It is very bright and happy, as the colors are bright and this insights excitement.
It depends on the day. If I want to feel more confident, I will dress in something that I think looks good on me. However, if I do not have much time or I'm too tired, I won't put in much effort.
What can you tell about a person or group of people by what they are wearing or how they look?
I really don't think you can tell anything by the way someone looks. You might think that if you see a girl wearing short shorts and a crop top that she's "promiscuous" when, really, whether she is or no is not your business.
What are examples of some social groups in youth culture?
I would say there are over-achievers, slackers, religious people, not religious people, athletic people, artsy people, "goth/emo" people, the list goes on.
Do people in social groups dress alike? Speak alike? Act alike?
For the most part, I would say yes. However, I know that my own social group offers a varying amount of people, so not necessarily.
Is there any individuality within a social group?
Of course. Without the individuals of the group, there would be no social group at all.
Are there expectations for being a part of a group?
I think so. For example, in my group of friends, we are all expected to be smart in specific subjects. In another way, I think being athletic is a prerequisite of being popular.
Write a list of all the social groups you can think of that exist inside of youth culture.
As I said before, popular people, artsy people, over achievers, slackers, athletic/popular people, "goth/emo" people.
What do these groups wear? Accessories? Jewelry?
I have never really associated accessories or jewelry with any specific groups.
How would you describe their fashion? Hairstyle? Tattoos?
Generally, I would describe slackers and athletic people as having a more laid back style. On the other hand, I think over achievers and artsy people tend to care more about fashion. I've really never noticed a large amount of youth with tattoos in any group.
Where do they hang out?
I think slackers/druggies tend to hang out at parks -- this is what I have seen, at least. I think artsy people/over achievers generally hang out at each other's houses. Athletic people hang out at sporting events, I suppose. Popular people go to parties frequently, I have heard.
Do they have a reputation?
Yes, they are expected to be or act certain ways because of the stereotypes attributed to them.
What are assumptions or stereotypes of this group?
It is generally assumed that popular people all have great lives, artsy/over achievers are really smart at everything, emo/goth people sacrifice babies to Satan, slackers don't care about anything, and athletic people are stereotyped as stupid or bullies.
What do you see? Be literal.
I see Demi Lovato with multi-colored hair in front of a red background. The text on the magazine is promising fashion tips, confidence, clear skin, money saving tips, and how to obtain hot jeans.
What does that imply or mean?
It implies that girls have things that they should want to change about themselves, such as their skin, fashion, confidence, and money. It also implies that Demi Lovato is a teenager, which she is not. This really shows how sexualized girls are, as they are represented by a woman and not a teen.
What is the big idea?
The big idea is to sell and to do that, magazines like that really count on girls' insecurities.
Theme, tone, or mood?
It is very bright and happy, as the colors are bright and this insights excitement.
Artist Statement
Identity is something that is so important to the individual and society. Actually, I just wrote a ten page research paper on identity, so I have really had the opportunity to understand why it is so important. When it comes to the identity of youth, there are many different things young people identify with. I chose to emulate a part of youth subculture that I personally identify with -- the "over achiever," although I don't know if I would put it that way. However, I often find myself buried in school work and responsibilities. What I am trying to say with my picture is that youth are being flooded with hard work and responsibilities. It's all about standing out for college admissions, but we tend to forget about our mental health. Of course, not everyone takes school this seriously, but for those who do, these stresses are very real. In my picture, I really wanted to portray my own personal feelings toward school. I chose to do this with three different pictures. In one position, I am laying my head down on my work to show a sense of exhaustion that comes with school. In the middle position, I am working on school work -- perhaps the hardest part. Finally, in the third picture, I am biting my nails to represent anxiety toward school work.
Identity is something that is so important to the individual and society. Actually, I just wrote a ten page research paper on identity, so I have really had the opportunity to understand why it is so important. When it comes to the identity of youth, there are many different things young people identify with. I chose to emulate a part of youth subculture that I personally identify with -- the "over achiever," although I don't know if I would put it that way. However, I often find myself buried in school work and responsibilities. What I am trying to say with my picture is that youth are being flooded with hard work and responsibilities. It's all about standing out for college admissions, but we tend to forget about our mental health. Of course, not everyone takes school this seriously, but for those who do, these stresses are very real. In my picture, I really wanted to portray my own personal feelings toward school. I chose to do this with three different pictures. In one position, I am laying my head down on my work to show a sense of exhaustion that comes with school. In the middle position, I am working on school work -- perhaps the hardest part. Finally, in the third picture, I am biting my nails to represent anxiety toward school work.
Humor
What is funny?
Anything that makes people laugh, I suppose. It's different for everyone.
What is not funny?
To me, any kind of racist, sexist, or homophobic joke is not funny and is ultimately problematic.
Why is something funny?
Something is funny because it pokes fun at certain aspects of society. This can be done through irony, satire, or black humor.
Who decides what is funny?
The individual decides what is funny. It's an opinion, no matter how wrong it may seem to someone else.
Is humor the same everywhere?
No. Because of historical contexts, different groups of people may view certain subjects as off limits to joke about.
What is the purpose of humor?
Humor is ultimately used to make people laugh. I would like to think that humor is used for this reason and not to hurt or oppress people, but this is not the case.
How do artists use humor?
Artists use humor to make people realize what is going on, like with irony.
Think about the last time you laughed out loud, really laughed, not just texted LOL. Write about your sense of humor.
What makes you laugh?
Irony, satire, puns, surrealism, and things I can relate to my life.
What is your sense of humor?
My sense of humor mostly relies on sarcasm and irony.
Describe in detail the last time you laughed.
It was like five minutes ago. I was looking on Tumblr to see the kinds of things that I think are funny and I saw a post where someone asked Robert Pattinson what his favorite chick flick was and he said chicken run. I mean, how funny is that?
Collect 3 instances of humor in the media, online, on TV, in a magazine, etc.
Why are these funny?
These are funny because two of them are gross and unexpected and the other (the one from That 70s Show) encapsulates my feelings.
What types of humor do they use? See below.
The face swaps are irony because it's definitely not what you expect. The one from the TV show is satire because trick or treating is not a matter of life or death but they make it seem that way.
Who are the audience? Who are each of these intended for?
The audience of the show is anyone who...likes the show. The face swap audience would have to be anyone who frequently uses the internet (namely social media).
Anything that makes people laugh, I suppose. It's different for everyone.
What is not funny?
To me, any kind of racist, sexist, or homophobic joke is not funny and is ultimately problematic.
Why is something funny?
Something is funny because it pokes fun at certain aspects of society. This can be done through irony, satire, or black humor.
Who decides what is funny?
The individual decides what is funny. It's an opinion, no matter how wrong it may seem to someone else.
Is humor the same everywhere?
No. Because of historical contexts, different groups of people may view certain subjects as off limits to joke about.
What is the purpose of humor?
Humor is ultimately used to make people laugh. I would like to think that humor is used for this reason and not to hurt or oppress people, but this is not the case.
How do artists use humor?
Artists use humor to make people realize what is going on, like with irony.
Think about the last time you laughed out loud, really laughed, not just texted LOL. Write about your sense of humor.
What makes you laugh?
Irony, satire, puns, surrealism, and things I can relate to my life.
What is your sense of humor?
My sense of humor mostly relies on sarcasm and irony.
Describe in detail the last time you laughed.
It was like five minutes ago. I was looking on Tumblr to see the kinds of things that I think are funny and I saw a post where someone asked Robert Pattinson what his favorite chick flick was and he said chicken run. I mean, how funny is that?
Collect 3 instances of humor in the media, online, on TV, in a magazine, etc.
Why are these funny?
These are funny because two of them are gross and unexpected and the other (the one from That 70s Show) encapsulates my feelings.
What types of humor do they use? See below.
The face swaps are irony because it's definitely not what you expect. The one from the TV show is satire because trick or treating is not a matter of life or death but they make it seem that way.
Who are the audience? Who are each of these intended for?
The audience of the show is anyone who...likes the show. The face swap audience would have to be anyone who frequently uses the internet (namely social media).
Humor: What You Shouldn't Let Your Baby Do
Artist Statement
For this humor unit, I paired up with Kiana and Amanda. Since Amanda and I have had this wretched baby doll in our locker since the end of last semester, we thought it would be funny to bring it back. Utilizing irony, we took the baby and put it in dangerous situations. Normally, I think other people would have stopped there. However, we took it even further. Instead of just telling the audience to not let their babies crawl onto bookshelves, we told the audience not to let their babies crawl onto bookshelves because they will seem like nerds. I know I usually have a sense of humor that not everyone shares, but I think this is funny because everyone knows that babies should not do any of these things. Since we took it to the next level, I think it's pretty funny. Humor is in the eyes and ears of the beholder, I suppose. Not one group of people is going to think the same things are funny because human minds don't think the same way.
For this humor unit, I paired up with Kiana and Amanda. Since Amanda and I have had this wretched baby doll in our locker since the end of last semester, we thought it would be funny to bring it back. Utilizing irony, we took the baby and put it in dangerous situations. Normally, I think other people would have stopped there. However, we took it even further. Instead of just telling the audience to not let their babies crawl onto bookshelves, we told the audience not to let their babies crawl onto bookshelves because they will seem like nerds. I know I usually have a sense of humor that not everyone shares, but I think this is funny because everyone knows that babies should not do any of these things. Since we took it to the next level, I think it's pretty funny. Humor is in the eyes and ears of the beholder, I suppose. Not one group of people is going to think the same things are funny because human minds don't think the same way.
Legacy
![Picture](/uploads/4/5/2/2/45228277/9039183_orig.jpg)
What is legacy?
Legacy is anything people remember after a long period of time -- this could be good or bad (Mother Teresa or Hitler).
How does one achieve legacy?
Legacy can be achieved by creating or doing something memorable that possibly affects a large group of people.
What is iconic?
Iconic things are things people know and identify with.
Why is something iconic?
Something is iconic because it sends a message to many people.
What does iconic look like?
Iconic looks like a mass recognition -- not necessarily the iconic thing itself, but the way people respond to it that make it iconic.
Does contemporary context change an iconic image?
Times change and so does society -- the average life is different based on the discriminations, economy, and general thinking of the time.
How do people perceive or see you?
I would like to think that everyone thinks I'm super cool and awesome but in reality everyone probably thinks I'm the brooding "weird girl" who does plays or "whatever".
Can their perception of you change?
Sure, I could walk into school tomorrow with tattoos, piercings, and spiky hair and everyone would have something to say about it.
What do you want others to think about you?
I really don't care what people think of me, but as I said, it would be nice if everyone thought positive things about me.
What do you hope people will remember about you when you graduate?
I hope people remember that even though I don't say much, I will stand up for what I believe in. I want people to know what my talents are and not just remember me as someone who's been the "weird girl" since the fifth grade.
Why is this person famous?
What qualities do they posses that make them famous?
How did they become famous?
Legacy is anything people remember after a long period of time -- this could be good or bad (Mother Teresa or Hitler).
How does one achieve legacy?
Legacy can be achieved by creating or doing something memorable that possibly affects a large group of people.
What is iconic?
Iconic things are things people know and identify with.
Why is something iconic?
Something is iconic because it sends a message to many people.
What does iconic look like?
Iconic looks like a mass recognition -- not necessarily the iconic thing itself, but the way people respond to it that make it iconic.
Does contemporary context change an iconic image?
Times change and so does society -- the average life is different based on the discriminations, economy, and general thinking of the time.
How do people perceive or see you?
I would like to think that everyone thinks I'm super cool and awesome but in reality everyone probably thinks I'm the brooding "weird girl" who does plays or "whatever".
Can their perception of you change?
Sure, I could walk into school tomorrow with tattoos, piercings, and spiky hair and everyone would have something to say about it.
What do you want others to think about you?
I really don't care what people think of me, but as I said, it would be nice if everyone thought positive things about me.
What do you hope people will remember about you when you graduate?
I hope people remember that even though I don't say much, I will stand up for what I believe in. I want people to know what my talents are and not just remember me as someone who's been the "weird girl" since the fifth grade.
Why is this person famous?
What qualities do they posses that make them famous?
How did they become famous?
Artist Statement
Legacy can mean so many things. It's something that that either be good or bad, but either way it's iconic. It's something that people can relate to or easily remember. For this unit, I chose the famous picture of Marilyn Monroe from "The Seven Year Itch." In this particular photo, there are men ogling Marilyn in what struck me as a sexual way. In my picture, I chose instead to use girls for this. Back then, I feel like women were only seen as sexual objects. While that's still relevant now, I feel that something that keeps happening in today's society is women tearing down women. In my picture, I wanted to depict someone who is confident in their body. I think that when some girls see a woman who is comfortable with herself, they become insecure because they wish they could be just as confident. So, in my picture, I had Breanna taking a picture to mimic the male paparazzi member. However, where the paparazzi is taking a picture for a magazine or something similar, Breanna is supposed to symbolize cyber bullying. Prizm is supposed to represent a girl tearing someone else down by making fun of them. Madison is supposed to represent someone who is visibly uncomfortable with someone else being confident in themselves. I think this represents legacy because it gives a contemporary context on how girls feel toward each other. Women and girls are still being put down, but it's a little different now. All in all, I responded to "The Seven Year Itch" with Marilyn Monroe because I wanted to depict how women in society has changed over time.
Legacy can mean so many things. It's something that that either be good or bad, but either way it's iconic. It's something that people can relate to or easily remember. For this unit, I chose the famous picture of Marilyn Monroe from "The Seven Year Itch." In this particular photo, there are men ogling Marilyn in what struck me as a sexual way. In my picture, I chose instead to use girls for this. Back then, I feel like women were only seen as sexual objects. While that's still relevant now, I feel that something that keeps happening in today's society is women tearing down women. In my picture, I wanted to depict someone who is confident in their body. I think that when some girls see a woman who is comfortable with herself, they become insecure because they wish they could be just as confident. So, in my picture, I had Breanna taking a picture to mimic the male paparazzi member. However, where the paparazzi is taking a picture for a magazine or something similar, Breanna is supposed to symbolize cyber bullying. Prizm is supposed to represent a girl tearing someone else down by making fun of them. Madison is supposed to represent someone who is visibly uncomfortable with someone else being confident in themselves. I think this represents legacy because it gives a contemporary context on how girls feel toward each other. Women and girls are still being put down, but it's a little different now. All in all, I responded to "The Seven Year Itch" with Marilyn Monroe because I wanted to depict how women in society has changed over time.
Transition
Why must things change?
Things change because people grow with new ideas about who they are and what the world means to them. Change is necessary in becoming an advanced, thoughtful human being for this reason.
What changes or transitions occur in life?
Many changes occur in life -- physically growing, mentally growing, relationships or friendships end, and loved ones die. It is a realistic concept because life cannot stay the same forever.
How have you changed?
I've changed emotionally -- I'm not as dependent, immature, and ignorant as I used to be. I have changed physically -- I have scoliosis now, I'm always tired, and my weight has fluctuated but ultimately gone down since the beginning of high school. I have even changed my goals -- if you had asked me what I wanted to do with my life awhile ago, I might have told you I wanted to be a professional violinist. But now, I want to be a film/TV editor. Finally, I have changed some of the people in my life, as I have ended relationships and friendships over the years.
What remains consistent?
I feel as though throughout my life I have had the consistency of a supportive family. Despite my career goals changing, I still love all of the same hobbies that I always have: acting, violin, and media editing.
How can artists use change?
Artists can use change to show the audience different things -- a change can be in society, an individual, a group of people, basically anythign.
How do artists show change?
Artists can show change by providing an example of the before and after side-by-side. Or, they can show the change through another means like fading or several images over the change.
How does light change?
Light changes the way we perceive things -- when we see something in the daylight, we might be inclined to view that object as normal or even pretty, depending on what it is. However, in the dark, there is a sense of creepiness, eeriness that usually comes through.
What have been some recent changes in your life?
In my life, I have recently ended a long relationship on my own terms and found out about some medical issues. Since I ended the relationship myself, I am much happier because the change was for the better and has contributed to a much happier version of myself. As far as the medical issues go, I have been stressed out because I've not been feeling my best.
What are future changes that you will expect to happen?
I expect -- or rather, I know -- that in a few months time I will be in college almost four hours away. My life will be completely different as I will not be interacting with the people I do now and I'll be living in a completely new place.
What does not change? Does anything remain the same?
I think that nothing can remain quite the same, exactly. However, I do not want things to be completely the same because that's boring. I like excitement and newness in my life, which transition and change are necessary for.
Things change because people grow with new ideas about who they are and what the world means to them. Change is necessary in becoming an advanced, thoughtful human being for this reason.
What changes or transitions occur in life?
Many changes occur in life -- physically growing, mentally growing, relationships or friendships end, and loved ones die. It is a realistic concept because life cannot stay the same forever.
How have you changed?
I've changed emotionally -- I'm not as dependent, immature, and ignorant as I used to be. I have changed physically -- I have scoliosis now, I'm always tired, and my weight has fluctuated but ultimately gone down since the beginning of high school. I have even changed my goals -- if you had asked me what I wanted to do with my life awhile ago, I might have told you I wanted to be a professional violinist. But now, I want to be a film/TV editor. Finally, I have changed some of the people in my life, as I have ended relationships and friendships over the years.
What remains consistent?
I feel as though throughout my life I have had the consistency of a supportive family. Despite my career goals changing, I still love all of the same hobbies that I always have: acting, violin, and media editing.
How can artists use change?
Artists can use change to show the audience different things -- a change can be in society, an individual, a group of people, basically anythign.
How do artists show change?
Artists can show change by providing an example of the before and after side-by-side. Or, they can show the change through another means like fading or several images over the change.
How does light change?
Light changes the way we perceive things -- when we see something in the daylight, we might be inclined to view that object as normal or even pretty, depending on what it is. However, in the dark, there is a sense of creepiness, eeriness that usually comes through.
What have been some recent changes in your life?
In my life, I have recently ended a long relationship on my own terms and found out about some medical issues. Since I ended the relationship myself, I am much happier because the change was for the better and has contributed to a much happier version of myself. As far as the medical issues go, I have been stressed out because I've not been feeling my best.
What are future changes that you will expect to happen?
I expect -- or rather, I know -- that in a few months time I will be in college almost four hours away. My life will be completely different as I will not be interacting with the people I do now and I'll be living in a completely new place.
What does not change? Does anything remain the same?
I think that nothing can remain quite the same, exactly. However, I do not want things to be completely the same because that's boring. I like excitement and newness in my life, which transition and change are necessary for.
Artist Statement
Since I have lived in my house for my whole life, I have seen it change quite a bit. Up until I was in middle school, the porch was completely cement without any pillars and had a weak metal railing. The bushes out front were large and almost covered the view of the porch. This was how it was 10 years ago. Now, we have wood paneling over the cement, pillars, sturdy railing, and smaller bushes. The front door also used to be white, but now it's painted bright red. There's always potential for change, and this porch is no exception. I know that over the course of a few years, my parents will want to fix the whole house up. I don't know what their plans are for the porch but I'm sure they'll want to change some things. In 100 years, who knows how it will look. That will be up to the new owners. Like I said, in 10 or 100 years there will certainly be new owners, so I can imagine a whole new style. There could be new siding, new windows, new railings, a new porch, new bushes, etc. This place is very important to me because it is where I have grown up and where I have walked through or by everyday for my entire life. I'm glad I chose the spot I did for my Transition unit because it holds a special place in my heart.
Since I have lived in my house for my whole life, I have seen it change quite a bit. Up until I was in middle school, the porch was completely cement without any pillars and had a weak metal railing. The bushes out front were large and almost covered the view of the porch. This was how it was 10 years ago. Now, we have wood paneling over the cement, pillars, sturdy railing, and smaller bushes. The front door also used to be white, but now it's painted bright red. There's always potential for change, and this porch is no exception. I know that over the course of a few years, my parents will want to fix the whole house up. I don't know what their plans are for the porch but I'm sure they'll want to change some things. In 100 years, who knows how it will look. That will be up to the new owners. Like I said, in 10 or 100 years there will certainly be new owners, so I can imagine a whole new style. There could be new siding, new windows, new railings, a new porch, new bushes, etc. This place is very important to me because it is where I have grown up and where I have walked through or by everyday for my entire life. I'm glad I chose the spot I did for my Transition unit because it holds a special place in my heart.
Layers
How are people layered?
People are layered by the different things that make up their identity -- this can be gender, sexuality, class, race, disability status, nationality, religion, sense of humor, emotions, etc.
Do people play different roles?
I definitely think there are certain types of people who act differently around different groups of people, whether they know they are shifting their personalities or not. This makes it difficult to gauge what kind of person they really are.
Why do artists choose to conceal things?
Artists could be concealing something because it is not necessary for the message they want to convey.
What do artists choose to reveal?
Artists reveal what they want people to see. Rather, artists give light to the important parts of their work.
What roles do you play in your life? (daughter, son, student, athlete, employee, etc.)
In my life, I play a daughter, friend, student, violinist, actress (and within this I play many different roles as well!), poet, photographer, sister, and aunt.
Do you ever conceal or hide any layers?
There are certain things about myself that are only for me or certain people to know. These details of my life are personal and not things I feel are anyone's business but my own and those I choose to tell.
Which layers do you choose to reveal?
It depends. In my close circle of friends and family, I'm not afraid to show my true emotions. However, in a classroom setting, I am quiet and keep to myself.
Do you reveal different layers to different people?
Yes, as I said above, I will confide in my friends and family with certain things.
Do you act one way with a group of people and not with another?
I don't think so. I could be wrong, but I think I stay pretty true to myself around everyone.
People are layered by the different things that make up their identity -- this can be gender, sexuality, class, race, disability status, nationality, religion, sense of humor, emotions, etc.
Do people play different roles?
I definitely think there are certain types of people who act differently around different groups of people, whether they know they are shifting their personalities or not. This makes it difficult to gauge what kind of person they really are.
Why do artists choose to conceal things?
Artists could be concealing something because it is not necessary for the message they want to convey.
What do artists choose to reveal?
Artists reveal what they want people to see. Rather, artists give light to the important parts of their work.
What roles do you play in your life? (daughter, son, student, athlete, employee, etc.)
In my life, I play a daughter, friend, student, violinist, actress (and within this I play many different roles as well!), poet, photographer, sister, and aunt.
Do you ever conceal or hide any layers?
There are certain things about myself that are only for me or certain people to know. These details of my life are personal and not things I feel are anyone's business but my own and those I choose to tell.
Which layers do you choose to reveal?
It depends. In my close circle of friends and family, I'm not afraid to show my true emotions. However, in a classroom setting, I am quiet and keep to myself.
Do you reveal different layers to different people?
Yes, as I said above, I will confide in my friends and family with certain things.
Do you act one way with a group of people and not with another?
I don't think so. I could be wrong, but I think I stay pretty true to myself around everyone.
As an introverted, shy person, I often find it hard to put myself out there. However, I know that the reason for this is because of the layers of my personality. For my picture, I decided to take two different pictures that use layers to describe certain aspects of myself. In one image, I doctored one of the lenses of my glasses to hold a stage curtain. The curtain is faded so that my eye is still visible, which I found important because I think eyes are an important, beautiful part of a person. The other picture of me is edited to have sheet music in the lens. Again, the music is faded so that my eye is visible. Going further, the music in the lens is especially important to me because it is the violin music for the theme from Schindler's List, which is the solo I am taking to contest this year. The reason I chose a curtain for one of the lenses is because theater has been my most loved hobby since I was nine-years-old. This is such an important aspect of my life that I felt it should be represented in my self portrait. The reason I edited the images into my glasses is because in my life, I am currently affected so greatly by music and theater. I know they will be in my future; my sights are set on them. As far as the words, I wanted to depict a theme of happiness. Of course, theater and music make me happy. To me, the phrase "Heaven and Hell were words to me" gives a message of happiness. Rather, I am not thinking about the unknown (will life be great or will it be bad?) I am just content in the present. To conclude, this self portrait encompasses my love for theater, music, and ultimate happiness.
Perspective
How do different people perceive the world?
Different people perceive the world based on their opinions, experiences, family, and relationships. The way we see the world can really be reflective of how the world has treated us -- if we are treated badly, we could have a negative view of the world. On the other hand, if we are treated badly, we could also take that as motivation to be happy and not let the world get us down.
Does someone’s perception of the world change over time?
I would definitely say a person's perception of the world changes as they change as a person. I don't think there is one person who could tell you they haven't changed over time, so of course as they grow with new experiences, their view of the world will change.
Can photographers use camera angle to convey meaning?
Yes, because the angle can change the focus.
How does camera angle and focus affect meaning?
Focus determines how the audience views the photograph.
How can art be used as a tool for empathy?
It can make people see something they are ignoring or do not think about -- for example, a picture of a starving child can persuade a rich person to donate to charities for starving kids. But even without the objective of making money, artists can bring awareness to world problems.
Does marketing and advertising use empathy to sell products, ideas, or lifestyles?
Yes, especially when it comes to charities. As I said above, companies can use pictures of abused animals to donate to their charity.
Different people perceive the world based on their opinions, experiences, family, and relationships. The way we see the world can really be reflective of how the world has treated us -- if we are treated badly, we could have a negative view of the world. On the other hand, if we are treated badly, we could also take that as motivation to be happy and not let the world get us down.
Does someone’s perception of the world change over time?
I would definitely say a person's perception of the world changes as they change as a person. I don't think there is one person who could tell you they haven't changed over time, so of course as they grow with new experiences, their view of the world will change.
Can photographers use camera angle to convey meaning?
Yes, because the angle can change the focus.
How does camera angle and focus affect meaning?
Focus determines how the audience views the photograph.
How can art be used as a tool for empathy?
It can make people see something they are ignoring or do not think about -- for example, a picture of a starving child can persuade a rich person to donate to charities for starving kids. But even without the objective of making money, artists can bring awareness to world problems.
Does marketing and advertising use empathy to sell products, ideas, or lifestyles?
Yes, especially when it comes to charities. As I said above, companies can use pictures of abused animals to donate to their charity.
I will not hide behind a man,
I will not cower in fear,
I will not cover my eyes,
my ears,
my mouth.
No thank you.
I know you can see me,
pushing,
shoving,
yelling in my face.
I can definitely see you.
Help
H-E-L-P
"Did you say something?"
I will not cower in fear,
I will not cover my eyes,
my ears,
my mouth.
No thank you.
I know you can see me,
pushing,
shoving,
yelling in my face.
I can definitely see you.
Help
H-E-L-P
"Did you say something?"
Artist Statement
Perspective is very interesting because it pertains to the individual. I know about my perspective of the world but I could not say exactly how someone else perceives the world, so it really is impossible to define perspective. For my pinhole picture, I really had to think about what I wanted to portray. I'm proud of what I've accomplished because it is an interesting photograph. I believe the angle captures the eye because it is not at eye level. This is interesting because I feel most pictures are taken at eye level but since I had to put my camera on the ground, I found a unique angle. The biggest connection I find between perspective and pinhole pictures is the fact that some of them are distorted and some are completely in focus. This is very compelling to me because it gives the audience a different way of looking at a picture, which is what perspective. To conclude, I really like this perspective unit because it gave me a new way of taking pictures; I couldn't just click a button and be done. It also gave me a unique way to see the world -- through a pinhole.
Perspective is very interesting because it pertains to the individual. I know about my perspective of the world but I could not say exactly how someone else perceives the world, so it really is impossible to define perspective. For my pinhole picture, I really had to think about what I wanted to portray. I'm proud of what I've accomplished because it is an interesting photograph. I believe the angle captures the eye because it is not at eye level. This is interesting because I feel most pictures are taken at eye level but since I had to put my camera on the ground, I found a unique angle. The biggest connection I find between perspective and pinhole pictures is the fact that some of them are distorted and some are completely in focus. This is very compelling to me because it gives the audience a different way of looking at a picture, which is what perspective. To conclude, I really like this perspective unit because it gave me a new way of taking pictures; I couldn't just click a button and be done. It also gave me a unique way to see the world -- through a pinhole.
Play
How do artists and photographers play?
Photographers find things that are interesting to them but also things which invoke emotions in others. To name a few, the emotions I felt while choosing the 10 photographs are: worry, awe, sympathy, nostalgia, and fear.
How do artists and photographers experiment?
Artists and photographers experiment by finding what speaks to them and others. The different angles they take pictures at can provide different points of view that affect how the photo is perceived.
How do professional artists handle a new material?
They see new material as a new opportunity to look for something they want to photograph, although they know this may not happen right away.
What is the process of play?
The process of play is examining the subject from different angles and viewpoints through taking several different photographs. This process is experimentation, which is exactly what play is.
Does play have rules?
No, play does not have rules as every possibility should be looked at. The photographer does not want any option left unexplored.
What does creative experimentation look like?
Creative experimentation is changing any way the photograph is taken -- this can be moving the subject, angle, setting, etc.
What do you take pictures of with your cell phone? Why?
A lot of the time, the pictures I take with my phone are of vacations, my boyfriend's nephew, and my family. I take these because they are memories and people I don't want to forget.
Which pictures do you choose to save and keep?
I chose to keep the ones I feel I can look back on and clearly remember the moments of the pictures.
Which do you delete?
I delete ones that are blurry or don't hold any meaning to me anymore.
Photographers find things that are interesting to them but also things which invoke emotions in others. To name a few, the emotions I felt while choosing the 10 photographs are: worry, awe, sympathy, nostalgia, and fear.
How do artists and photographers experiment?
Artists and photographers experiment by finding what speaks to them and others. The different angles they take pictures at can provide different points of view that affect how the photo is perceived.
How do professional artists handle a new material?
They see new material as a new opportunity to look for something they want to photograph, although they know this may not happen right away.
What is the process of play?
The process of play is examining the subject from different angles and viewpoints through taking several different photographs. This process is experimentation, which is exactly what play is.
Does play have rules?
No, play does not have rules as every possibility should be looked at. The photographer does not want any option left unexplored.
What does creative experimentation look like?
Creative experimentation is changing any way the photograph is taken -- this can be moving the subject, angle, setting, etc.
What do you take pictures of with your cell phone? Why?
A lot of the time, the pictures I take with my phone are of vacations, my boyfriend's nephew, and my family. I take these because they are memories and people I don't want to forget.
Which pictures do you choose to save and keep?
I chose to keep the ones I feel I can look back on and clearly remember the moments of the pictures.
Which do you delete?
I delete ones that are blurry or don't hold any meaning to me anymore.
Artist Statement
During this unit, I learned that the ideas I have for my photos may not always be the best in the end. For example, when I had the idea of using my car for one photo, I thought I would photograph someone sitting on the trunk and take the picture from inside the car. However, once I was sitting in the front seat, I tried taking a picture of the steering wheel instead. This photo turned out better than the ones I took of someone sitting on the trunk, even though that is what I originally wanted. Every idea should be explored, whether it's the angle, distance, or even the subject itself that should be changed. When taking these unit pictures, I never once took one picture and decided it was good enough. As a photographer, I never want to let go of an opportunity that could make a great picture, so I didn't leave any idea unexplored. This experimentation, or play, was very important to how I took my five photos. Because I took so many different pictures with the same subject, it made it difficult to pick the ones I wanted to use for my unit. This benefited me in that I know have an abundant amount of different pictures with different angles to look back on. These pictures really exemplify how I played with different ways of taking pictures.
During this unit, I learned that the ideas I have for my photos may not always be the best in the end. For example, when I had the idea of using my car for one photo, I thought I would photograph someone sitting on the trunk and take the picture from inside the car. However, once I was sitting in the front seat, I tried taking a picture of the steering wheel instead. This photo turned out better than the ones I took of someone sitting on the trunk, even though that is what I originally wanted. Every idea should be explored, whether it's the angle, distance, or even the subject itself that should be changed. When taking these unit pictures, I never once took one picture and decided it was good enough. As a photographer, I never want to let go of an opportunity that could make a great picture, so I didn't leave any idea unexplored. This experimentation, or play, was very important to how I took my five photos. Because I took so many different pictures with the same subject, it made it difficult to pick the ones I wanted to use for my unit. This benefited me in that I know have an abundant amount of different pictures with different angles to look back on. These pictures really exemplify how I played with different ways of taking pictures.