Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Third Wheelers
You may or may not notice the third-wheeler feed I put at the bottom of the blog. Its for a third wheeler club project my bf and I are making for an assignment. Kind of excited actually.
Saturday, December 15, 2012
PIS: Chosen Artists
Topic of discussion: How the chosen artists will be reflected in my current assignment, 'Visions and Nightmares'
Post no. 3
Hey there. =) Although I was given a choice to not go along with the suggested theme 'Visions and Nightmares', I went with it anyway. I also happen to dream alot, everyday to say the least, and even during my 10 minute power naps. I also remember most of them.
My idea on the given project would be me, explaining the different types of dreams I have and the meanings behind them. I don't know any dream interpreters but I do know how to google. So,
DreamMoods will assist me in all the connotations of my many dreams.
I guess it would be interesting to implement my dreams into imagery as my dreams could get a little absurd. For example, I was dreaming that I was flying on a bicycle across London town. Airgo the interpretation from DreamMoods :
Post no. 3
Hey there. =) Although I was given a choice to not go along with the suggested theme 'Visions and Nightmares', I went with it anyway. I also happen to dream alot, everyday to say the least, and even during my 10 minute power naps. I also remember most of them.
My idea on the given project would be me, explaining the different types of dreams I have and the meanings behind them. I don't know any dream interpreters but I do know how to google. So,
DreamMoods will assist me in all the connotations of my many dreams.
I guess it would be interesting to implement my dreams into imagery as my dreams could get a little absurd. For example, I was dreaming that I was flying on a bicycle across London town. Airgo the interpretation from DreamMoods :
To dream that you are riding a bicycle signifies your desires to attain a balance in your life. You need to balance work and pleasure in order to succeed in your current undertakings. If you have difficulties riding the bicycle, then it suggests that you are experiencing anxieties about making it on your own.
To see a bicycle in your dream indicates that you need to devote time to leisurely pursuits and recreation.
To dream that you are riding tandem in a bicycle suggests that you are more accepting with aspects of yourself or of your partner that you have previously rejected."
Well, it does have some truth in it.
So how are the chosen artists are going to be reflected in my work you ask?
As for the imagery, I would extract David Ho's dark, fantastical look ( unrealness). I could see that Mr. Ho uses Photoshop as is main tool. He Photoshops his photographs with a majority of warm colors, mostly brown.
I would be using Photoshop as well to implement the mysterious, dark theme onto my work, of course with the addition of my own style.
For the sounds, Amie Salvin has inspired me to play with 3D sounds for ambiance and dialogue to keep the sounds more interesting. (oh my god, the painter outside thinks he's in some one-man-show karaoke bar competition. Walruses fled. CAN'T FOCUS. ) Anyway, I would be narrating my project (not too excited about that) and will be using Adobe Audition as my main tool for sound editing. The equipment will be borrowed from the IT department and my narration would be recorded in the sound recording studio in college.
Here's the idea iMap of my project.
Don't get creeped out at how I remember those dates. I associate them with the memorable events and how well they relate themselves to my chosen dreams.
Well, it does have some truth in it.
So how are the chosen artists are going to be reflected in my work you ask?
As for the imagery, I would extract David Ho's dark, fantastical look ( unrealness). I could see that Mr. Ho uses Photoshop as is main tool. He Photoshops his photographs with a majority of warm colors, mostly brown.
I would be using Photoshop as well to implement the mysterious, dark theme onto my work, of course with the addition of my own style.
For the sounds, Amie Salvin has inspired me to play with 3D sounds for ambiance and dialogue to keep the sounds more interesting. (oh my god, the painter outside thinks he's in some one-man-show karaoke bar competition. Walruses fled. CAN'T FOCUS. ) Anyway, I would be narrating my project (not too excited about that) and will be using Adobe Audition as my main tool for sound editing. The equipment will be borrowed from the IT department and my narration would be recorded in the sound recording studio in college.
Here's the idea iMap of my project.
Don't get creeped out at how I remember those dates. I associate them with the memorable events and how well they relate themselves to my chosen dreams.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
PIS: La Jette (1962)
Topic of discussion: Analysis and documentation of Chris Marker's, 'La Jetee'
Post no. 2
THE FILM
Alright, so my lecturer showed me a film called 'La Jetee'(The Jetty) by Chris Marker. The whole film is built on images, accompanied by narrating and sound effects. Its more sci-fi related as it deals with time travelling.
The still images taken throughout the movie are in black and white of course, centralized and dark. It has quite a high contrast perhaps to give a more dramatic effect. Multiple images are taken of the same scene and object to give the character movement and life although in still images. Overall the images worked like a storyboard, a test-prototype.
As for the transitions, what really gave a sense of movement were the overlapping and dissolving from one image to another. Like the multiple shots of the woman sleeping, put up one after with the dissolving effect gave the illusion of the woman actually moving. Fade in and outs are mostly used to determine the switching of scenes and locations. It also happens when the narrator is changing the subject, talking about something totally unrelated to the previous image. Panning and zooming into and out of the image also gives the illusion of life, as if the camera was really there filming the whole situation. It gives a certain intensity and focus to the matter the narrator is talking about. Overall, the most used transition effect is dissolve.
The background sounds used in the film are mostly orchestrated. Its edited in a way to allow more emotion and depth into the situation the narrator is describing and the images which are being portrayed. Heart beat sound effects tell the audience that the subject matter is getting more tense, emitting a more nervous behavior. What I found really creepy about the sound editing were the whispering bits. It excretes the horror vibe which I found very disturbing. Overall, the sounds were edited quite seamlessly, a little awkward at some parts but it does get the emotions and story going.
The duration between the transitions of the images are timed quite perfectly. It gives the audience the correct anticipations.
Signal Processing : There are some present during the whispers, definitely with the narrating. I couldn't notice any delays or distortions as the recording was really old and crusty. As for the pitch, it varies between the subject and narrator.
The images and sound chosen do reflect and coincide one another. However, I did not get the story at all at first. It is something that one must watch twice to get it as it has many deep connotations in those images.
CHRIS MARKER
Chris Marker, the director of this film as well as his other known work 'Sans Soleil' has a great interest in politics and history. It may be the drive that inspires his work. He rarely does any interviews. 'La Jetee' is a photo montage with voice overs, with occasional muttering.
However there's a link I found that leads to one of Marker's interviews regarding his choice of mediums, personal interests and work.
Chris Marker (29 July 1921 - 30 July 2012)
This statement he made was actually quite mind boggling but it does make a fair argument. What I can comprehend from this quote is that we just could not remember anything as accurately as we would like to.
Overall, I think Chris Marker is a wise, thoughtful man. However, this film did not inspire me as much as it isn't my kind of movie.
Post no. 2
THE FILM
Alright, so my lecturer showed me a film called 'La Jetee'(The Jetty) by Chris Marker. The whole film is built on images, accompanied by narrating and sound effects. Its more sci-fi related as it deals with time travelling.
The still images taken throughout the movie are in black and white of course, centralized and dark. It has quite a high contrast perhaps to give a more dramatic effect. Multiple images are taken of the same scene and object to give the character movement and life although in still images. Overall the images worked like a storyboard, a test-prototype.
As for the transitions, what really gave a sense of movement were the overlapping and dissolving from one image to another. Like the multiple shots of the woman sleeping, put up one after with the dissolving effect gave the illusion of the woman actually moving. Fade in and outs are mostly used to determine the switching of scenes and locations. It also happens when the narrator is changing the subject, talking about something totally unrelated to the previous image. Panning and zooming into and out of the image also gives the illusion of life, as if the camera was really there filming the whole situation. It gives a certain intensity and focus to the matter the narrator is talking about. Overall, the most used transition effect is dissolve.
The background sounds used in the film are mostly orchestrated. Its edited in a way to allow more emotion and depth into the situation the narrator is describing and the images which are being portrayed. Heart beat sound effects tell the audience that the subject matter is getting more tense, emitting a more nervous behavior. What I found really creepy about the sound editing were the whispering bits. It excretes the horror vibe which I found very disturbing. Overall, the sounds were edited quite seamlessly, a little awkward at some parts but it does get the emotions and story going.
The duration between the transitions of the images are timed quite perfectly. It gives the audience the correct anticipations.
Signal Processing : There are some present during the whispers, definitely with the narrating. I couldn't notice any delays or distortions as the recording was really old and crusty. As for the pitch, it varies between the subject and narrator.
The images and sound chosen do reflect and coincide one another. However, I did not get the story at all at first. It is something that one must watch twice to get it as it has many deep connotations in those images.
CHRIS MARKER
Chris Marker, the director of this film as well as his other known work 'Sans Soleil' has a great interest in politics and history. It may be the drive that inspires his work. He rarely does any interviews. 'La Jetee' is a photo montage with voice overs, with occasional muttering.
However there's a link I found that leads to one of Marker's interviews regarding his choice of mediums, personal interests and work.
Chris Marker (29 July 1921 - 30 July 2012)
This statement he made was actually quite mind boggling but it does make a fair argument. What I can comprehend from this quote is that we just could not remember anything as accurately as we would like to.
Other films like 'Dancerama' by Sigue Sigue Sputnik are also inspired by La Jetee.
Overall, I think Chris Marker is a wise, thoughtful man. However, this film did not inspire me as much as it isn't my kind of movie.
PIS: Sound and 2D Digital Artists
Hey, I'm back. Back again.
Another blogging assignment. Oh god.
Topic of discussion: Identifying selected Sound and 2D Digital artists.
Post. No. 1
Sound Artist, Amie Salvin
Amie Salvin is a Sound Artist based in the UK. Based on her CV she provided on her website, she has ventured into Business, Management, Physical therapies and Audio productions after being graduated from Coventry University in 1977. She focused her primary attention towards sound installations such as the Sophia's Web. She was also mentored by another Sound Artist Ray Lee. Previews of her work are available via her website and her youtube channel as well.
This is an image of one of her installations called, 'Sohpia's Web'. Inspired by the birth of her daughter Sophia, Salvin created an installation that go by the themes of relationship, connection and aspiration.
Each green button emits a recorded voice of per family member when pressed.
What I favor with her recordings were that they were 3 Dimensional, crisp and clear. The varieties of sound and flow are interesting as well.
And I quote her statement on her website,
"If A picture can paint a thousand words then A SOUND CAN TRIGGER A MILLION MIND IMAGES. 'My aim, in producing sound-centred work, is to stimulate an absorption in and appreciation of the many and various ways in which sound can be used to represent and illuminate ideas, issues and voices. I hope to make my audience laugh, cry and think, through their ears (so to speak!)" - Amie Salvin
2D Digital artist, David Ho
David Ho is a born Chinese-American who obtained is Sociology degree from UC Berkley later took Bachelor Degree in Fine Arts and Art History from the San Jose State University. He worked as a digital illustrator for many clients like Corona Beer, Simon & Schuster, Random House, The Source Magazine, Chicago Tribune, Interscope Records, Ziff Davis.
He also displayed is artworks at numerous exhibitions, being the Disney Underground Art at Disneyland, Anaheim as one of them. He had books published from the year 1999 to his most recent book in 2012, 'Answers of Silence'. However, after 15 years of working as a freelance designer, he decided to pursue fine arts instead.
His art are mostly dark and metallic, as described in his website. It contains despair, grief and isolation as well as sexual disturbances. That may be his theme. This definition is derived from his website, quoted by Mr Randy M Dannenfelser.
What I think is that his art is very much inspired by Surrealism. Artists like Rene Magritte and Salvador Dali could be the main culprits of his direction.
Below are some of his commercial works that he did.
Another blogging assignment. Oh god.
Topic of discussion: Identifying selected Sound and 2D Digital artists.
Post. No. 1
Sound Artist, Amie Salvin
Amie Salvin is a Sound Artist based in the UK. Based on her CV she provided on her website, she has ventured into Business, Management, Physical therapies and Audio productions after being graduated from Coventry University in 1977. She focused her primary attention towards sound installations such as the Sophia's Web. She was also mentored by another Sound Artist Ray Lee. Previews of her work are available via her website and her youtube channel as well.
This is an image of one of her installations called, 'Sohpia's Web'. Inspired by the birth of her daughter Sophia, Salvin created an installation that go by the themes of relationship, connection and aspiration.
What I favor with her recordings were that they were 3 Dimensional, crisp and clear. The varieties of sound and flow are interesting as well.
And I quote her statement on her website,
"If A picture can paint a thousand words then A SOUND CAN TRIGGER A MILLION MIND IMAGES. 'My aim, in producing sound-centred work, is to stimulate an absorption in and appreciation of the many and various ways in which sound can be used to represent and illuminate ideas, issues and voices. I hope to make my audience laugh, cry and think, through their ears (so to speak!)" - Amie Salvin
2D Digital artist, David Ho
David Ho is a born Chinese-American who obtained is Sociology degree from UC Berkley later took Bachelor Degree in Fine Arts and Art History from the San Jose State University. He worked as a digital illustrator for many clients like Corona Beer, Simon & Schuster, Random House, The Source Magazine, Chicago Tribune, Interscope Records, Ziff Davis.
His art are mostly dark and metallic, as described in his website. It contains despair, grief and isolation as well as sexual disturbances. That may be his theme. This definition is derived from his website, quoted by Mr Randy M Dannenfelser.
What I think is that his art is very much inspired by Surrealism. Artists like Rene Magritte and Salvador Dali could be the main culprits of his direction.
Below are some of his commercial works that he did.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Monday, August 27, 2012
Friday, August 17, 2012
Binary Opposites
Topic of discussion: Who, what, when, where and why binary oppositions occur?
Post no. 10
What exactly is Binary Opposition?
Dictionary.com defines binary opposition as:
"a relation between the members of a pair of linguistic items, as a pair of distinctive features, such that one is the absence of the other, as voicelessness and voice, or that one is at the opposite pole from the other, as stridency and mellowness."
Binary opposition first ties itself with Structuralism. These are some of the key points I picked up from the slides which I think are relevant.
Binary opposition: Divides the world into categories.
Who started binary opposition?
It has always been a mystery to me. If I would pick a guess, I'd guess religion. In Christianity, in the first chapter of the Bible he separated heaven and earth, angels and demons and categorized the land and sky. He did state the difference between the darkness and the light. The creation of the earth is FILLED with binary oppositions. Ying and Yang also take pride in their Yin and Yang theory. The difference between dark and light, women and male.
When and Where did I first experience binary opposition?
That would definitely be in my schooling years, at school. Males and Females would be instructed to form two straight lines in front of class, the short ones in front of the line while the tall ones always get away by lining up at the back of the class. The geeks would sit up front while the playful ones would sit outback in class. This was the place binary opposition revealed itself to me.
Why do binary oppositions occur?
Does having categories always keep things in order? Is it good or is it bad? Should girls and boys just line up in just one line to maximize space or is it better to separate them to avoid trouble? Which brings me to the first point that I have picked up from the slide. (highlighted in yellow)
I have to agree about how binary opposites form from a culture. It is just human nature for everyone to follow..everyone!
Which brings me to my next point, this generation 'dadaists'. These are the people who desperately or are of nature, not following the norm and culture that is set for them. They breach between the two said categories and create something so unusual and entropical that creates the wanted or unwanted attention they desire.
Examples would be, merging cars and robots to become Transformers or fishes and humans to create mermaids. These breaches create something new, unique and something that the public won't see everyday. Male and Female breaches would be the LGBT association. However, this community is not well received in certain countries due to religious beliefs and moral statures. Which leads back to binary opposition. In some countries being gay is something evil or dishonoring where as being straight could mean something good.
But did they not think about all the straight rapists and the fabulous gay designers that..are not raping people?
Binary opposition is definitely an interesting topic to ponder on. Till next time.
-Charissa Ong
Post no. 10
What exactly is Binary Opposition?
Dictionary.com defines binary opposition as:
"a relation between the members of a pair of linguistic items, as a pair of distinctive features, such that one is the absence of the other, as voicelessness and voice, or that one is at the opposite pole from the other, as stridency and mellowness."
Binary opposition first ties itself with Structuralism. These are some of the key points I picked up from the slides which I think are relevant.
- The key is that we are all shaped by our cultural
background - therefore our way of seeing and understanding the world is
culturally determined.
- We can only define what something is by knowing what isn't.
Binary opposition: Divides the world into categories.
Who started binary opposition?
It has always been a mystery to me. If I would pick a guess, I'd guess religion. In Christianity, in the first chapter of the Bible he separated heaven and earth, angels and demons and categorized the land and sky. He did state the difference between the darkness and the light. The creation of the earth is FILLED with binary oppositions. Ying and Yang also take pride in their Yin and Yang theory. The difference between dark and light, women and male.
When and Where did I first experience binary opposition?
That would definitely be in my schooling years, at school. Males and Females would be instructed to form two straight lines in front of class, the short ones in front of the line while the tall ones always get away by lining up at the back of the class. The geeks would sit up front while the playful ones would sit outback in class. This was the place binary opposition revealed itself to me.
Why do binary oppositions occur?
Does having categories always keep things in order? Is it good or is it bad? Should girls and boys just line up in just one line to maximize space or is it better to separate them to avoid trouble? Which brings me to the first point that I have picked up from the slide. (highlighted in yellow)
I have to agree about how binary opposites form from a culture. It is just human nature for everyone to follow..everyone!
Which brings me to my next point, this generation 'dadaists'. These are the people who desperately or are of nature, not following the norm and culture that is set for them. They breach between the two said categories and create something so unusual and entropical that creates the wanted or unwanted attention they desire.
Examples would be, merging cars and robots to become Transformers or fishes and humans to create mermaids. These breaches create something new, unique and something that the public won't see everyday. Male and Female breaches would be the LGBT association. However, this community is not well received in certain countries due to religious beliefs and moral statures. Which leads back to binary opposition. In some countries being gay is something evil or dishonoring where as being straight could mean something good.
But did they not think about all the straight rapists and the fabulous gay designers that..are not raping people?
Binary opposition is definitely an interesting topic to ponder on. Till next time.
-Charissa Ong
Does it tally?
Topic of discussion: Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion and My Website.
Post no. 9
I have received some useful constructive criticism from my Media Culture and Histories Lecturer, who stated:
"My big gripe would be that the moody background has a haunted connotation. The graffitied named of CFZ on his photo is not appropriate lah. Needs some formality. "
Speaking of haunted connotations, I was reminded on how I would love to insert Cheong Fatt Tze's many ghost stories on my first website. That's how I first came to know about this mansion. My parents would always drive by and tell my sisters and I about how it was the most haunted mansion in Penang and that only daring tourists that are adventurous and brave enough would rent a room there. To me, it was called the Haunted Blue House. However, I have decided to filter down the information as I didn't want to scare off my target audiences that come across the page. Come to think of it, do ghost stories actually make a site more interesting to visit? It depends. Therefore, I have attempted to implement the old scroll style as well as an ample amount of vignetting, to somehow convert the many mysteries and stories the mansion carries into image. What I am trying to convey is that this Mansion should not only be recognised by its bright blue exterior, but should also be known for its history, ancient beliefs and facts that reside in it.
I couldn't agree more on his second comment though. I had a gutt feeling to remove that Graffiti-ed 'Cheong Fatt Tze' on his image in the 'Cheong Fatt Tze' tab. That's the one thing I let go. It was definitely my laziness to create a new image as a title. Ha-ha. It does displease me every time I look at it.
Since I did not have the chance to input any interesting Cheong Fatt Tze ghost stories into the site, I might as well put them up here!
My dad around his younger years would loiter around the CFT Mansion with his friends as his grandfather cooks for the CFT in the Annex, right opposite the Mansion. More info on the Annex here.
Father and the tourguide tells us that the people in charge of the heritage preservation projects painted the Mansion bright blue to get some attention from the media. Which worked, and saved this iconic Mansion from being destroyed. I could say the colour of this Mansion is pretty iconic. Everyone would refer it to the Blue House, or Blue Building without knowing what it actually is.
Anywho, ghost stories. Babies were born there, people passed away and generations regenerated among the Cheong Fatt Tze family as well as the renters after CFT's death. My parents heard stories from their relatives, who then passed them onto us and now me, passing them on to you.
In the middle of the night, travelers and the people renting the rooms could still see the ghosts of the maids and concubines working in the mansion, carrying sheets and blankets in and out of the rooms without using doors.
Stories by travelers also said that they could hear the concubines descend and ascend the blue spiral staircase in woe.
Gates that were locked with keys the night before, were mysteriously unlocked in the morning.
The tour guide didn't mention all these, but she must have left them out intentionally. It does freak me out even when writing this blog post. There are many more CFT ghost stories that could be looked up online. What may be scary to most, might be interesting and fascinating to some.
- Charissa Ong
Post no. 9
I have received some useful constructive criticism from my Media Culture and Histories Lecturer, who stated:
"My big gripe would be that the moody background has a haunted connotation. The graffitied named of CFZ on his photo is not appropriate lah. Needs some formality. "
Speaking of haunted connotations, I was reminded on how I would love to insert Cheong Fatt Tze's many ghost stories on my first website. That's how I first came to know about this mansion. My parents would always drive by and tell my sisters and I about how it was the most haunted mansion in Penang and that only daring tourists that are adventurous and brave enough would rent a room there. To me, it was called the Haunted Blue House. However, I have decided to filter down the information as I didn't want to scare off my target audiences that come across the page. Come to think of it, do ghost stories actually make a site more interesting to visit? It depends. Therefore, I have attempted to implement the old scroll style as well as an ample amount of vignetting, to somehow convert the many mysteries and stories the mansion carries into image. What I am trying to convey is that this Mansion should not only be recognised by its bright blue exterior, but should also be known for its history, ancient beliefs and facts that reside in it.
I couldn't agree more on his second comment though. I had a gutt feeling to remove that Graffiti-ed 'Cheong Fatt Tze' on his image in the 'Cheong Fatt Tze' tab. That's the one thing I let go. It was definitely my laziness to create a new image as a title. Ha-ha. It does displease me every time I look at it.
Since I did not have the chance to input any interesting Cheong Fatt Tze ghost stories into the site, I might as well put them up here!
My dad around his younger years would loiter around the CFT Mansion with his friends as his grandfather cooks for the CFT in the Annex, right opposite the Mansion. More info on the Annex here.
Father and the tourguide tells us that the people in charge of the heritage preservation projects painted the Mansion bright blue to get some attention from the media. Which worked, and saved this iconic Mansion from being destroyed. I could say the colour of this Mansion is pretty iconic. Everyone would refer it to the Blue House, or Blue Building without knowing what it actually is.
Anywho, ghost stories. Babies were born there, people passed away and generations regenerated among the Cheong Fatt Tze family as well as the renters after CFT's death. My parents heard stories from their relatives, who then passed them onto us and now me, passing them on to you.
In the middle of the night, travelers and the people renting the rooms could still see the ghosts of the maids and concubines working in the mansion, carrying sheets and blankets in and out of the rooms without using doors.
Stories by travelers also said that they could hear the concubines descend and ascend the blue spiral staircase in woe.
Gates that were locked with keys the night before, were mysteriously unlocked in the morning.
The tour guide didn't mention all these, but she must have left them out intentionally. It does freak me out even when writing this blog post. There are many more CFT ghost stories that could be looked up online. What may be scary to most, might be interesting and fascinating to some.
- Charissa Ong
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
CLICK ME
Check it outtt.
My first ever website that I done for an assignment!
Topic title: Digital Heritage Website
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Monday, August 6, 2012
Marshall McLuhan, Media Theorist.
Lecture conducted by: Daniel Chong
Topic of discussion: "The World according to Marshall"
Post no. 8
According to Marshall, his laws of media are:
An Extension/Enhancement: Every technology extends or amplifies some organ or faculty of the user.
What does the medium enhance or intensify?
Lets take a car for example. This medium extends the legs of an ordinary human, enabling them to go travel further without getting lethargic or tired easily in a short amount of time.
Telephones could also be an enhancing medium. It extends the hearing ability of a human, allowing them to have a conversation with someone kilometers away without having to raise their voice.
Closure/Obsolescence: Because there is equilibrium in sensibility, when one area of experience is heightened or intensified, another is diminished or numbed.
What is pushed aside or obsolesced by the new medium?
Lets take the car again for the example. Due to the existence of this new medium, horses and carriages begin to diminish in demand.
Telephones also diminish the effort of setting up fire signals to communicate with one another, or using messengers that would take a longer period of time to get the message across. Media is always improving, very quickly. Old media would be forgone, newer and more effective media would replace them.
Reversal: Every form, pushed to the limit of its potential, reverses its characteristics.
Alright, if the car is overused and abused, it would cause humans to be idle, lazy and fat. It prevents them from moving around or getting to nearby places by walking. That would be the reverse of the abuse of effective new media.
The telephone as well. People would overuse it, causing dangerous health problems from the radiation the device emits. People would also take for granted that communication would and could be easily made anytime of the day, therefore there would be laziness and communication would not be done at all.
Retrieval: The content of any medium is an older medium. (I'm personally not very sure how this applies)
The telephone retrieves the ability to meet up, talk and bond.
Cars on the other hand retrieves the ability to move around and meet people at designated places.
Overall, what Mc Luhan is trying to say is that every new or old medium has its pros and cons. It's up to us to define what thoses are to come up with a suitable design solution that would properly obsolete a media, or create a new one that would benifit mankind.
source
Topic of discussion: "The World according to Marshall"
Post no. 8
According to Marshall, his laws of media are:
An Extension/Enhancement: Every technology extends or amplifies some organ or faculty of the user.
What does the medium enhance or intensify?
Lets take a car for example. This medium extends the legs of an ordinary human, enabling them to go travel further without getting lethargic or tired easily in a short amount of time.
Telephones could also be an enhancing medium. It extends the hearing ability of a human, allowing them to have a conversation with someone kilometers away without having to raise their voice.
Closure/Obsolescence: Because there is equilibrium in sensibility, when one area of experience is heightened or intensified, another is diminished or numbed.
What is pushed aside or obsolesced by the new medium?
Lets take the car again for the example. Due to the existence of this new medium, horses and carriages begin to diminish in demand.
Telephones also diminish the effort of setting up fire signals to communicate with one another, or using messengers that would take a longer period of time to get the message across. Media is always improving, very quickly. Old media would be forgone, newer and more effective media would replace them.
Reversal: Every form, pushed to the limit of its potential, reverses its characteristics.
Alright, if the car is overused and abused, it would cause humans to be idle, lazy and fat. It prevents them from moving around or getting to nearby places by walking. That would be the reverse of the abuse of effective new media.
The telephone as well. People would overuse it, causing dangerous health problems from the radiation the device emits. People would also take for granted that communication would and could be easily made anytime of the day, therefore there would be laziness and communication would not be done at all.
Retrieval: The content of any medium is an older medium. (I'm personally not very sure how this applies)
The telephone retrieves the ability to meet up, talk and bond.
Cars on the other hand retrieves the ability to move around and meet people at designated places.
Overall, what Mc Luhan is trying to say is that every new or old medium has its pros and cons. It's up to us to define what thoses are to come up with a suitable design solution that would properly obsolete a media, or create a new one that would benifit mankind.
source
Friday, July 27, 2012
Another interesting talk with SER.
By: Professor Shaw Hong SER
Topic of discussion: "Survey of Southeast Asian Arts and Culture"
Post no. 7
Have been lagging this post for a couple of weeks already due to the heavy assignments. So, the information that I remember might be filtered down and not going be so fresh anymore. Well, it's a good thing there's notes.
Anywho, I was taken by surprise when the talk I attended was conducted by the same speaker prior to the previous talk I went which cost me 5 bucks at TGV a week earlier. I wouldn't complain though, the information he plated up for us were different and new.
The main focus he was trying to point out in the talk was that throughout many years, the culture of southeast Asia has its own influences from different countries and developed their own 'outlook' from it.
He gave some architectural examples from Cambodia, Thailand and Indonesia. What I found interesting is that all these three countries used the concept that derived itself from Hinduism, for their buildings. The Hindu God lives in a sacred mountain, not heaven. That mountain is called the 'Kalasha', or Mountain Meru.
And on those buildings' walls', there were bas-relieves (gives a 3D effect) that tells stories about their kind and era. The picture below depicts their 'Aspara', a.k.a their Celestial Being; Angel. The three pointy things on her head represent the Mountain Meru. SER told us that all the ladies in that era walked around without bras and it was a norm then. Oh wow, couldn't have imagined if everyone was like that today.
He told us 'Nang Yai' was their form of wayang kulit. The costumes were pretty creepy if you asked me. However, it still has a very rich culture to it which makes it interesting to watch. Then, he started to talk about Indonesia.
He talked about Borobudur, which looked like an ancient ruin-Buddhist-temple. Well, it kinda is. There are about 500 life sized Buddha statues there. And that's where he started on the ancient folklore which I found seriously interesting. He asked us why was Buddha's hair so curly. He then explained that they were actually snails that glided up Buddha's meditating head, to protect it from the scorching sun the devil has conjured. Hence, the picture below. I really see the resemblance of the snail's shell to the carving on the statue itself.
He also said that the same devil that cause the massive heat wave caused a flood. A dragon felt pity for Buddha and split it's head up into 7 heads to protect Buddha like an umbrella for the flood. Interesting? This are all folklore anyway.
One other interesting thing he mention about colour in Thailand was that the colour RED was to function as an invisibility cloak. Whatever that is painted red, should be imagined that it is not there. For example, the rowers in a Thai boat race would be wearing red uniforms to give the illusion that the Phoenix boat was gliding along the river by itself. Very interesting.
I do believe what he says due to the fact that he stayed and studied in Thailand for such a long time. Plus, he's a Professor. Seems legit enough.
Well, that's all I could remember! Till next time.
-Charissa Ong
Topic of discussion: "Survey of Southeast Asian Arts and Culture"
Post no. 7
Have been lagging this post for a couple of weeks already due to the heavy assignments. So, the information that I remember might be filtered down and not going be so fresh anymore. Well, it's a good thing there's notes.
Anywho, I was taken by surprise when the talk I attended was conducted by the same speaker prior to the previous talk I went which cost me 5 bucks at TGV a week earlier. I wouldn't complain though, the information he plated up for us were different and new.
The main focus he was trying to point out in the talk was that throughout many years, the culture of southeast Asia has its own influences from different countries and developed their own 'outlook' from it.
He gave some architectural examples from Cambodia, Thailand and Indonesia. What I found interesting is that all these three countries used the concept that derived itself from Hinduism, for their buildings. The Hindu God lives in a sacred mountain, not heaven. That mountain is called the 'Kalasha', or Mountain Meru.
And on those buildings' walls', there were bas-relieves (gives a 3D effect) that tells stories about their kind and era. The picture below depicts their 'Aspara', a.k.a their Celestial Being; Angel. The three pointy things on her head represent the Mountain Meru. SER told us that all the ladies in that era walked around without bras and it was a norm then. Oh wow, couldn't have imagined if everyone was like that today.
The humans at that time were illiterate, therefore pictures are much more legible for them. However, this form of culture is interpreted into the Thai culture. They still do have that pointy thing as the hat but it would represent fire. It also works like how the Halo works for Jesus Christ and all the other saints in Christianity.
He told us 'Nang Yai' was their form of wayang kulit. The costumes were pretty creepy if you asked me. However, it still has a very rich culture to it which makes it interesting to watch. Then, he started to talk about Indonesia.
He talked about Borobudur, which looked like an ancient ruin-Buddhist-temple. Well, it kinda is. There are about 500 life sized Buddha statues there. And that's where he started on the ancient folklore which I found seriously interesting. He asked us why was Buddha's hair so curly. He then explained that they were actually snails that glided up Buddha's meditating head, to protect it from the scorching sun the devil has conjured. Hence, the picture below. I really see the resemblance of the snail's shell to the carving on the statue itself.
He also said that the same devil that cause the massive heat wave caused a flood. A dragon felt pity for Buddha and split it's head up into 7 heads to protect Buddha like an umbrella for the flood. Interesting? This are all folklore anyway.
One other interesting thing he mention about colour in Thailand was that the colour RED was to function as an invisibility cloak. Whatever that is painted red, should be imagined that it is not there. For example, the rowers in a Thai boat race would be wearing red uniforms to give the illusion that the Phoenix boat was gliding along the river by itself. Very interesting.
I do believe what he says due to the fact that he stayed and studied in Thailand for such a long time. Plus, he's a Professor. Seems legit enough.
Well, that's all I could remember! Till next time.
-Charissa Ong
Thursday, July 12, 2012
The Culture In Design Talk
Lecturer: SER ; Cultures and Histories
Topic of Discussion: "Culture in Design"
Post no. 6
Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/thailand/bangkok/sights/arts-crafts/thailand-creative-design#ixzz21LDz2CGG
Topic of Discussion: "Culture in Design"
Post no. 6
I attended a cultural talk led by Mr. SER at the TGV Cinemas on the 10th of July with a couple of my classmates Shireen, Carmen, Melissa, Gerry and Daniel (My Lecturer for MC&H). We didn't know we had to pay beforehand! Thought we woke up early for nothing. They let us in anyway, after hearing that we were degree students. Ha-ha.
Anyway, I found the talk pretty enlightening as he introduced different cultures and their symbols and how they influence product design. ALSO, the way he presents his talk in an eccentric and enjoyable manner really helped me in the processing the information. I could tell it was pretty dull at first; from his nerves maybe, he did mention it but it turned out excitable in the end. Most of the examples he showed us were greatly influenced by the Chinese Tai ji symbol, the Yin Yang. (As shown above) Will elaborate more about this later.
But first, he started off the talk on the definition on culture.
It said, culture was a way of life for an entire society. As long as person B follows a particular action of person A, and as it spreads across the whole society, it would be known as culture.
He gave examples on how an ancient man would use a bamboo shoot to drink from a waterfall. If his other village mates follow him, it would be known as a piece of culture for that village.
He then stated that there were 3 Cultural Levels which were the PHYSICAL , SOCIAL , and SPIRITUAL levels.
The three levels are divided as such:
Physical - Material Culture
- Outer Level (Appearance)
- Colors, textures and patterns of a product.
- Tangible
Social - Behavioral Culture
- Mid Level (Function)
- Function and Usability of a product.
Spiritual - Ideal Culture
- Inner Level (Self-Image)
- Special content, stories and emotions of a product.
- Intangible
Those statements made a lot of sense to me as they were breakdowns on how good designs are made. There is a lot of thought.
Another thing he mentioned was the 4 steps into creating a design product.
1. Investigation (Research)
2. Interaction (I'm not really sure what this meant, I think I was spacing at the time)
3. Development (Sketches)
4. Implementation (Designing the product)
This way, good designs would be legal and comprehensible by your target market.
Below are a few products which are influenced by the Yin Yang symbol above.
A couch,
And a thermos set.
I found it pretty clever on how the designers implemented the designs into the products. There's also one more tea cup design which is absolutely amazing. I couldn't find the picture for it on the net. *sobs*
Basically its a traditional clay cup with a separation down the middle with its shape like a curve. You're supposed to place the tea leaves on one side of the cup and pour hot water into it. The separation has the words Tai Ji carved in it (in Mandarin).
Therefore, the brewed tea would flow to the other side of the separation trough the carved words. So, you're kinda like brewing your tea right in the tea cup instead of using the teapot.
Oh! He did encourage us to visit the Thailand Creative & Design Center if we ever visited Thailand.
It's address would be the Th Sukhumvit btwn Soi 22 & 24 6th fl, Emporium.
Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/thailand/bangkok/sights/arts-crafts/thailand-creative-design#ixzz21LDz2CGG
-Charissa Ong
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Semiotics? Symbols?
Lecturer: Daniel ; Media Cultures and Histories
Topic of Discussion: "SEMIOTICS"
Post no. 5
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La reproduction interdite
'Not to be Reproduced' - Rene Magritte
Rene Magritte's style has always been a favorite of mine. His Surrealist paintings inspire me as they were kind of like old-style photo manipulation. It's wonderful how he could take something so mediocre and turn it into something so unreal, magical, as though has the power to nullify the laws of physics.
The two main components of this painting is a Book "The Narrative of Arthur Gorden Pynm" and a Man, who I have found out to be Magritte's friend by the name of Edward James. What's interesting is that the mans reflection is not being reflected correctly into the mirror, contrary to the book.
The two main components of this painting is a Book "The Narrative of Arthur Gorden Pynm" and a Man, who I have found out to be Magritte's friend by the name of Edward James. What's interesting is that the mans reflection is not being reflected correctly into the mirror, contrary to the book.
I will be discussing and analyzing this painting's denotation, connotation and myth as well as the 'iconic' and 'arbitrary'-ness to which is based under Semiotics.
Denotation: A man looking into a mirror which does not show his reflection correctly. However, a French novel is reflected correctly in the mirror.
Connotation: A wealthy, intelligent looking man checking his reflection in the mirror.
Myth: Although a man may look at himself in the mirror, he may not know/recognize himself.
Iconic: The Man's reflection (an unusual but straight message could be obtained instantly) and his novel (to be used as a constant variable)
Arbitrary: The title itself, 'Not to be Reproduced' which meant, that the man's reflection is not to be produced again by the mirror. It's name itself is very subjective.
Friday, June 29, 2012
The Process Model
Lecturer: Daniel ; Media Cultures and Histories
Topic of Discussion: "THE PROCESS MODEL"
Post no. 4
From what I understand from the slides and lectures, this Process Model is a communication theory of the work of Shannon and Weaver during the World war II.
This theory works is very technical as it involves only transferring information from one end to the other. AND, during the process of transferring information, there would be noise as well. Allow me to give an example that could relate itself to the process model.
INFORMATION SOURCE : Myself
TRANSMITTER: My desktop
NOISE: Slow loading speed of my blog page
RECEIVER:Blog reader's computer
DESTINATION: Blog Reader
I have read that this flow of information has its drawbacks. It does not have any denotations or meanings as it only does a straight, calculated job. It also does not require or give any feedback between users or computers. However, these matters would not be necessary as WWII was taking part at the time. Efficiency and accuracy of information was much more needed than a feeling based system. This flow could also be considered as a strategy to win the war at the time. You'd never know?
I noticed how noise is apart of the flow. Somehow, to Shannon and Weaver, information transfer would most definitely involve noise. Is it true though? Looking at the technological advances these days, with noise being tackled and troubleshooted after years and years of research and development, should noise still be compelled to be present in the flow? I'm sure not every single form of information transfer involves noise all the time.
Take Facebook chat for example. Two users could be back and forth without noise for a period of time. Thus, eliminating the 'Noise Source' in the Transmission Model. Of course, there would be a chance that one of the computers would get struck by lightning, exploding the internet modem and cause a whole lot of noise. But to think, maybe this transmission model could only apply to that particular era, at that particular time.
Next, what interests me is the way information in categorized.
It is divided into two forms. Entropy and Redundant Information.
Entropy was new for me so I was a little excited to know what it meant. To my knowledge, I took the definition of redundant information as boring, useless, or something not really needed.
It was surprising to learn that redundant information according to the T>R module meant predictability and conventionality and Entropy, the contrary of it. In my opinion, redundancy in information would be dull and boring for me. Like reading the Terms and Conditions of any programs I download. I don't do that! No one ever does. However, it could be useful at times. I learnt from my first semester in Icon Designing that having a redundant, conventional and recognizable icon would help the usability and comprehension towards my User Interface. So that's a plus point for redundancy!
Entropy information sounds more interesting. It's defined as new, something out of the blue and unusual information. Somehow this reminds me of Extroverts like how redundant information would remind me of Introverts. There's some Binary Opposition happening there. *laughs*
New information could be entertaining, could be otherwise. As for icon usability, I don't think its a very good idea to be creating something so abstract no one else but myself could understand.
So, this transmission model just works to deliver entropic or redundant messages straight from the transmitter to the receiver without any feedback or emotions.
-Charissa ONG
References: CommunicationTheory.org
Topic of Discussion: "THE PROCESS MODEL"
Post no. 4
From what I understand from the slides and lectures, this Process Model is a communication theory of the work of Shannon and Weaver during the World war II.
This theory works is very technical as it involves only transferring information from one end to the other. AND, during the process of transferring information, there would be noise as well. Allow me to give an example that could relate itself to the process model.
INFORMATION SOURCE : Myself
TRANSMITTER: My desktop
NOISE: Slow loading speed of my blog page
RECEIVER:Blog reader's computer
DESTINATION: Blog Reader
I have read that this flow of information has its drawbacks. It does not have any denotations or meanings as it only does a straight, calculated job. It also does not require or give any feedback between users or computers. However, these matters would not be necessary as WWII was taking part at the time. Efficiency and accuracy of information was much more needed than a feeling based system. This flow could also be considered as a strategy to win the war at the time. You'd never know?
I noticed how noise is apart of the flow. Somehow, to Shannon and Weaver, information transfer would most definitely involve noise. Is it true though? Looking at the technological advances these days, with noise being tackled and troubleshooted after years and years of research and development, should noise still be compelled to be present in the flow? I'm sure not every single form of information transfer involves noise all the time.
Take Facebook chat for example. Two users could be back and forth without noise for a period of time. Thus, eliminating the 'Noise Source' in the Transmission Model. Of course, there would be a chance that one of the computers would get struck by lightning, exploding the internet modem and cause a whole lot of noise. But to think, maybe this transmission model could only apply to that particular era, at that particular time.
Next, what interests me is the way information in categorized.
It is divided into two forms. Entropy and Redundant Information.
Entropy was new for me so I was a little excited to know what it meant. To my knowledge, I took the definition of redundant information as boring, useless, or something not really needed.
It was surprising to learn that redundant information according to the T>R module meant predictability and conventionality and Entropy, the contrary of it. In my opinion, redundancy in information would be dull and boring for me. Like reading the Terms and Conditions of any programs I download. I don't do that! No one ever does. However, it could be useful at times. I learnt from my first semester in Icon Designing that having a redundant, conventional and recognizable icon would help the usability and comprehension towards my User Interface. So that's a plus point for redundancy!
Entropy information sounds more interesting. It's defined as new, something out of the blue and unusual information. Somehow this reminds me of Extroverts like how redundant information would remind me of Introverts. There's some Binary Opposition happening there. *laughs*
New information could be entertaining, could be otherwise. As for icon usability, I don't think its a very good idea to be creating something so abstract no one else but myself could understand.
So, this transmission model just works to deliver entropic or redundant messages straight from the transmitter to the receiver without any feedback or emotions.
-Charissa ONG
References: CommunicationTheory.org
Monday, June 25, 2012
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Intertextuality
Lecturer: Daniel; Media Cultures and Histories
Topic of discussion: "Intertextuality"
Post no. 3
Intertextuality! Its strange how the the word is underlined as if its an error. I found today's lecture rather intriguing. It made me excavate the different, uncharted corners of my mind. What I have been exposed to all my life, shed in a different light.
The word 'intertextuality' is defined by the shaping of texts' meanings by other texts. I have realised that one of my favourite forms of entertainment; parodies on Youtube as well as the parodies DJ's perform on my local radio stations have a great intertextuality element to it. As mentioned in the lecture, intertextuality plays with the familiarity and common aspects from original texts. And by modifying them ever so slightly, they trigger humor facets in those parodies.
For example, one of my favorite youtubers, RyanHiga does a parody on the occurrence of the Rihanna and Chris Brown incident.
The reason why that particular video has a smashing 23 Million views is that it had great intertextuality and reference to the singers' songs in the script. What made the video even more relevant is that those lyrics and songs do come together in a nice little package that could convince the audience of its story. The other reason would also be that this video was uploaded at the right time the incident happened, when no information was out in the news regarding the incident. Hence, this video somehow feeds the hungry mass with the title, 'Why Chris Brown beat Rihanna'.
However, these intertextualities would only have effect on a certain target audience that has lived, or experienced that text during that era. What I found most interesting is about how intertextuality can be perceived as 'creative bankruptcy'. I think if intertextuality is used in the right way; with new creative input that would mesh together in harmony, it could be considered as creativity. On the other hand, intertextuality with an idea of plagiarism would definitely fall under 'bankruptcy' of creativity.
What I'd like to conclude is that intertextuality is used as a form of personal and internal connection between the user and host. It builds a form of trust as conventional and familiar aspects are being used in those experiences.
-Charissa Ong
Topic of discussion: "Intertextuality"
Post no. 3
Intertextuality! Its strange how the the word is underlined as if its an error. I found today's lecture rather intriguing. It made me excavate the different, uncharted corners of my mind. What I have been exposed to all my life, shed in a different light.
The word 'intertextuality' is defined by the shaping of texts' meanings by other texts. I have realised that one of my favourite forms of entertainment; parodies on Youtube as well as the parodies DJ's perform on my local radio stations have a great intertextuality element to it. As mentioned in the lecture, intertextuality plays with the familiarity and common aspects from original texts. And by modifying them ever so slightly, they trigger humor facets in those parodies.
For example, one of my favorite youtubers, RyanHiga does a parody on the occurrence of the Rihanna and Chris Brown incident.
The reason why that particular video has a smashing 23 Million views is that it had great intertextuality and reference to the singers' songs in the script. What made the video even more relevant is that those lyrics and songs do come together in a nice little package that could convince the audience of its story. The other reason would also be that this video was uploaded at the right time the incident happened, when no information was out in the news regarding the incident. Hence, this video somehow feeds the hungry mass with the title, 'Why Chris Brown beat Rihanna'.
However, these intertextualities would only have effect on a certain target audience that has lived, or experienced that text during that era. What I found most interesting is about how intertextuality can be perceived as 'creative bankruptcy'. I think if intertextuality is used in the right way; with new creative input that would mesh together in harmony, it could be considered as creativity. On the other hand, intertextuality with an idea of plagiarism would definitely fall under 'bankruptcy' of creativity.
What I'd like to conclude is that intertextuality is used as a form of personal and internal connection between the user and host. It builds a form of trust as conventional and familiar aspects are being used in those experiences.
-Charissa Ong
Sunday, June 10, 2012
My take on Plato's virtues
Lecturer : Daniel; Media Cultures and Histories
.
.
Topic of discussion: Plato's "Allegory of the Cave"
Post no. 2When I first encountered the idea from Plato; as well as the Googled images related to this,
I have concluded that it has a strong relation to the definition and effects of media to the subjects exposed to it. The prisoners being the mass public and the puppeteers representing the Media. The fire, is used as a medium to communicate what the puppeteers want to show to the prisoners through shadows. By doing this, the puppeteers could manipulate the images and thinking of the prisoners.
Hence, this could create a false reality for the mass.
This was actually the first essay topic which I have chosen to do. I actually downloaded Second life to analyse this theory!
Speaking of Second Life, it actually adopts the same principles of Plato's Allegory of the Cave. This internet social medium is capable of recreating the perfect avatar, character and location of any person's dreams. This, somehow gives a second chance of life, or as I might add, an escapade from the cruel realities. Programmers paint the perfect world for the users that would indulge them, chain them to the seats of their computers.
According to Allegory, the prisoners that climb out of the cave are shocked in afraid from what they have been told which was real, isn't. Metaphorically this could be applied to hard-core gamers that would hide in their 'cave' for long periods of time, unexposed to the world. Upon escaping the habit, they would be experiencing new realities and understandings of the real world.
This could also be applied to the local newspapers or entertainment tabloids that have the capability of transforming normal issues into misconceptions that could blow the sales off the stands.
Therefore, this is what I think about Plato's Allegory of the Cave. It pretty much aligns itself with the original theory.
-Charissa Ong
Saturday, June 9, 2012
A charcoal portrait I did for my dad like an hour ago. Happy Fathers Day and Happy Birthday dada. =D
I have added gifs of my bored self to make this blog look more alive. Fiddling around with Adobe. Kelvin thought us a bunch of adobe stuff and I have chosen to abuse that knowledge for my own pleasures. =D
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
My first attempt at cinemagraphy. It was two in the morning! Explains why the shirt is not cropped properly.
One more reason why he looks like a turtle would be that the camera was reallly shaky.
Hence, the head just moves around with the camera while the video is being taken.
These are what real cinemagraphs should look like.
CINEMAGRAPHS
Will have another try to do these cinemagraphs justice once I have the time. Properly, this time.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Media Culture
Lecturer: Daniel
After reading through the text a couple of times, a particular statement whom Ivan Philips quoted, Marshall McLuhan; a media theorist caught my attention and interest. In the text, it is stated that McLuhan defined medium as a form of an 'extension' the human mind and body.
Being a media student myself, I did not really dissect or truly understand the true means of being in the industry and what it has to offer. I did have a rough idea on what my course; 'Interactive Media' is and about but I couldn't always explain, or put into words on its scope when asked. Frequent answers would be, 'Oh, it's like commercials or trailers for movies.' I obviously knew it was more than that, somehow I just needed to simplify its scope in order for my peers from other fields of study to comprehend.
Mentioning this, it relates itself back to the Culture section I've read in the text. It is stated about how the Eliotic version of high and low culture would depend on the culture of the society as a whole. With my Asian upbringing, lawyers and doctors are always being part of the high and designers as part of the low forms of culture.
Returning to my main point and focus about how media could be a form of extension of man, I found it really eye-opening and deep although already existent in my oblivious mind. That statement pretty much churns out as what I would like to define media is in words. IN the media industry, I would give more importance towards the effects of the given media conjured rather than the content, in parallel to what McLuhan has stated.
Above is a scanogram which I did in January for an Introductory assignment which I have explained on how Media is a part of what I am passionate in.
Charissa Ong
Topic of Discussion: Media Culture - This Rough Magic
Post no. 1After reading through the text a couple of times, a particular statement whom Ivan Philips quoted, Marshall McLuhan; a media theorist caught my attention and interest. In the text, it is stated that McLuhan defined medium as a form of an 'extension' the human mind and body.
Being a media student myself, I did not really dissect or truly understand the true means of being in the industry and what it has to offer. I did have a rough idea on what my course; 'Interactive Media' is and about but I couldn't always explain, or put into words on its scope when asked. Frequent answers would be, 'Oh, it's like commercials or trailers for movies.' I obviously knew it was more than that, somehow I just needed to simplify its scope in order for my peers from other fields of study to comprehend.
Mentioning this, it relates itself back to the Culture section I've read in the text. It is stated about how the Eliotic version of high and low culture would depend on the culture of the society as a whole. With my Asian upbringing, lawyers and doctors are always being part of the high and designers as part of the low forms of culture.
Returning to my main point and focus about how media could be a form of extension of man, I found it really eye-opening and deep although already existent in my oblivious mind. That statement pretty much churns out as what I would like to define media is in words. IN the media industry, I would give more importance towards the effects of the given media conjured rather than the content, in parallel to what McLuhan has stated.
Above is a scanogram which I did in January for an Introductory assignment which I have explained on how Media is a part of what I am passionate in.
Charissa Ong
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