The Level Event is up and ready for your shopping pleasure! If you are like me, you have a habit of dressing the for season (ok, it might just be me), this event is perfectly timed to kick off Spring!
New season means new look! Hair, nails, skin and make-up to begin the season’s new you. Stunning options from Mila, Glamocracy, and Ascendant just to name a few.
I personally adore the Cindi outfit from Safira and will be giving up the 1299L for the 20 color fatpack. The color options are perfect for moving into warmer weather with an aire of sexy sophistication.
If you need something a little more risqué and eye catching, A Breakfast Convo is offering up the Eiffel Sparks Dress in 13 colors. This dress would pair perfectly with the Enviee Aremana Metallic Heels and the Nadiyah Earrings from November. Talk about cocktail party perfection!
Second Life has cursed me with a bit of a shoe addiction and Marchese is making sure that I don’t leave this event without at least one new pair! I adore everything about these shoes! The design, metallic accents, and the fact that they are only 299L!
Purses have never really been my thing, in RL or SL, but the Slow Me Down Bag from DDl is an adorable accessory and could make me a convert. At least this season.
I have always LOVED the shopping events. You can get a little taste of the latest offerings from so many different designers without having to search 20 blogs or landmarks. Though never rule out a designer based on a single event or outfit. Some of my favs took me a while to fall in love with. It’s like that guy you are good friends with but you’re convinced he is in the friend zone, and then, BAM! You love everything about him. In SL, you might change partners as often as the season’s style, but at least with shopping you will get an amazing wardrobe and not a single hit to your reputation!
Dear Mahogany, I met the love of my life in SL many years ago. We were friends for a year, then partnered for another year before becoming a RL couple. Three years into it, I found out that he was having an affair in SL. He eventually partnered this woman against my wishes, then left me for her. I guess the grass wasn’t greener, because after almost a year with her, he showed up on my doorstep saying he had made a huge mistake.
I took him back, because I am still in love with him, and I miss having him in my life. Things seemed to be going really well, until I found out that he is still financing this woman in SL. He is spending a lot of money in world to keep her SL business going, and to make sure she has everything she needs. He justifies it by saying if he helps her in SL, she won’t ask him for money IRL and he won’t have to have any contact with her. I am okay with that. I don’t depend on him for money, so as long as he pays his bills, I don’t care. But, I’m afraid that this continued contact will cause him to leave again.
I don’t know what to do. I don’t want to appear too needy, but I don’t want to be alone either.
Sincerely, Don’t Want to be Lonely
Honey, Here is what you need to do: get some self respect!
I don’t know what kind of game this man is playing with your life, but this is not something you want hanging over your head or your heart.
I can understand being in love, and not wanting to be alone, but is it really worth your peace of mind to constantly worry about whether or not this guy is going to dip out on you again?
Ask yourself what’s more important, being with someone who clearly wants to be with someone else, or being able to love the person you face in the mirror each morning?
Whatever you decide to do, you have to live with it. Just don’t get mad when the people close to you start to look at you funny for staying with him.
A person who imagines or foresees a state or society where there is great suffering or injustice. The dystopian protagonist challenges that which would control his or her life and helps others see the truth of the dystopian world through a unique perspective.
Patrick Ireland of FOCUS sat down with our friend, Dystopyan, to get to get a better sense of his “view of the world.”
Patrick: Thank you so much, my friend, for being our FOCUS artist for April 2019! Let me begin by also saying thank you for being such an inspiring friend. Truly, your talent in RL and SL is tremendous!
First question, just so we can get to know you personally: What’s one memory in SL that you have, or an event or experience here, that you have incorporated into your daily real life?
Dystopyan: Three and a half years ago, I had no clue that SL even existed. It was so intriguing to me when I first heard about it. After joining in, and seeing the amazing creations produced by the SL community, a spark was triggered in me. Since then, it has been a constant learning curve, taking creative inspiration from SL to RL, and vice versa.
Photography in SL has caused me to perceive photography in RL a bit differently too, pulling my work outside the box. And one thing I learned the hard way, posing people in SL is so much easier than RL. 🙂
Patrick: What is your background? You get bonus points if you can tie your life experiences to your artwork.
Dystopyan: I’ve always had an interest in different types of art since I was young. I used to draw a lot and play guitar. To be honest, I never thought I would ever go professional in RL photography and digital painting until I was forced to make the decision to drop everything and pursue the passion I have.
Since then I’ve tried to create a different approach — mixing photography, image editing and digital painting — to pull off some surrealist concepts and themes most of the time.
Patrick: What does your work aim to say?
Dystopyan: My work is about people. My work says: People are different and no 2 are alike. My work can mainly be split into 2 categories, commissioned and personal work. If you really analyze my images you will notice that no 2 photos are the same. Whenever I want to photograph someone or create a specific look for someone, I try to pull the person’s character out. I try and get to know the person behind the avatar and the reason why they look the way they do. Doing that helps me visualize the photos in my mind, makes me able to fine-tune their avatar and push the photos to the extreme. The other half of my work is my personal work which shows my interests in BDSM and erotic art, fantasy and some surrealistic views of the world — trying to capture whatever SL has to offer.
Patrick: Does your work comment on current social or political issues?
Dystopyan: I know that some artists are huge social and political influencers. Not me. I try to capture emotions in my work. I like to meet different people and help spread the beauty of those people living in different parts of the world. The main message I have to share is to accept the person in front of you for who they are. Find the beauty in them and spread that out. I do not bother myself with politics either, and as Plato said: “One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors.” I am willing to live with that risk for the sake of what I love.
Patrick: Who are your biggest influences?
Dystopyan: I was first a musician before becoming a digital artist, so music plays a big role in my life. I enjoy all music, from the classical masterpieces to the more heavier and aggressive genres. As for visual artists and photographers, I like the genius classic work of Ansel Adams for some reason even though my work is exactly the opposite. On the other hand, I like Alberto Seveso, Aaron Nace and Aleksi Goferman —to name a few — who inspire me and push me to advance and develop my photography, image editing and painting skills, to be able to do what I do now.
Patrick: I’ve noticed that you’re quite helpful to “younger” photographers here in SL. Have you collaborated with others here and how do you feel your real life experience in art and photography has helped others in SL capture their own spirit for design and composition?
Dystopyan: I haven’t had big collaborations in SL — except for a few with other friends who are photographers — but I always try and help people who want to discover photography in here. Maybe because I am self-taught in RL, and I know how hard it can be for someone to learn by themselves. So I always try and lend out a hand whenever I can. Seeing other people’s work and creativity is inspiring to me. Some photographers see that as competition. I see it as growth and inspiration. Explaining some few techniques in composition, color theory and light can bring an amateur’s photos to professional levels, and that alone gives me pleasure when I see it happen.
Patrick: Lastly, is there a story behind your name?
Dystopyan: Long story short, I guess it’s because I think we’re heading towards a very dystopian era in the future. I like works such as Lovecraft and everything related as well. I guess it’s a combination of stuff. It’s just something that resonated with me when I created my av and I’m damn impulsive. 🙂 So, Dystopyan.
Patrick: Your photos have an air of your perception of dystopia as well.
Dystopyan: Yes. I try to show that.
Patrick: Thank you again, Dystopyan, for your time and sharing with our readers.
The saying that March comes “in like a lion, out like a lamb” has always seemed a straightforward enough proverb: when March starts, it’s still winter, and by the end of the month spring has begun. As I write this Editor’s Note, March is coming in like a lion in the northeast. We are expecting 18 inches of snow this weekend alone!
The proverb also seems to ring true this month at FOCUS Magazine. The March issue represents a few big experiences for us. Firstly, this issue will feature our first couples interview with Loegan and Rachel Magic. Their interview has a sweet, romantic dynamic that is a pleasure to read. We have also begun our photography classes, which will occur around the 20th of every month, led by Patrick Ireland, our new Managing Editor. Inspiring, incredible changes are afoot for us all! More and more people have been coming together to help with the FOCUS vision of combining art, friendship and celebrating both. Pleases contact me if you’d also like to participate!
Virtual photography is fast becoming it’s own respected art form. In our lifetimes, it’s possible that we may see CGI images in museums nestled comfortably between famous masterpieces. I’m sure many find that a far-fetched idea but most novel art forms have been historically disparaged. Consider Realism, the dominant style of painting since the Renaissance. Realists cringed and scoffed at Impressionism. And the Painterly style – which placed paint into the amateur hands of the masses – with the metal paint tube. But art does not belong to the elite – or even the highly skilled. I subscribe to the ideal that art is an act of human expression and connection – for all.
I believe that photogs in SL and are taking part in the emergence of an art form that represents our modern curiosities. CGI makes the creation of art more accessible, and access is almost entirely unrelated to race, gender, location, education, and ability. This idea of equality, sharing and friendship are the core foundational values of FOCUS Gallery and Magazine. Our goal is to acknowledge each individual’s contribution, to share experience, and to encourage others to find their own voice in photography within a helpful and kind community. Lofty ideas, I know! But we make it happen every day we participate.
About two months ago, the Isle of Miracles, a community sim with rentals and scenery that attracts SL photogs, became a music venue, too. Arwen Ansaldo, who wears the tag “Miracles Boss,” took the sim over from Madeline Swann, founder of the Tres Chic event. Madeline built the sim, but didn’t have time to run it, so Arwen took over at the last moment and saved the beautifully landscaped sim from being lost. The sim’s description reads “Everyday holds a possibility of a Miracle!” I can attest to that as, on my first visit, I spent 3 hours enjoying the Rock Stage – one of three stages on the sim. First on stage was Loreen Aldrin, our dear TSFTG friend. Then Lisa Brune took the stage with her sexy French voice and joie de vivre. Last, was Jack Slade playing his familiar 6-string guitar. Music events are Thursdays from 1-3pm and Friday from 12-3pm. I definitely recommend dropping by for the photo opp, but stay for the music and idyllic atmosphere!
This month, since we are into May, it will be my last article in the theme of ‘New Year~New You’. And for you guys that are desperate for good quality affordable clothes, you are in luck, this one’s for you. You’re welcome!
Kauna is a tiny store now on the Time Portal sim for men’s formal wear. Even though he hasn’t created new clothing, everything is FREE except for a smoking pipe gotcha. The suits and tuxes are timeless and classic. Since most men now are meshed up, when you wear Kauna you will have to configure your alpha for the suits to fit properly, but it’s a small price to pay for these well designed suits. And you can’t beat free!
The XIV tux is my absolute favorite. When you click that frame on the wall, you will receive all colours and accessories, shirts, bow ties, cummerbunds, and pocket hankies.
Don’t worry. You’re not the only one who has no idea how to pronounce his name. But don’t be fooled by his humble British charm. Underneath his shape-shifting, this guy is a Renaissance man, and we’re very fortunate he has taken a leading role in TSFTG and FOCUS Magazine & Gallery.
Angela: Hello Umshi and thank you for agreeing to be interviewed today, especially by ME! 🙂
Umshi: The privilage is all mine, thank you for asking.
Angela: We usually always start with an icebreaker question so here it goes: If you could have lunch with anyone in the world from any period of time, who would it be?
Umshi: My father. He passed away when I was 7 so I would like to get to know him.
Too Cool for Cats
Angela: Aww hugs! Great answer.
Umshi: Thank you.
Angela: So, you are a pretty prolific photographer in SL. What kinds of things inspire you?
Umshi: Mainly songs. I get inspired by the music – a line from a song or the title – and usually an image pops up in my head. I have to try and recreate using myself, surroundings, etc. made affordable by the wonders of SL.
Angela: You have been in SL since 2007, but only in Flickr since 2016. How did you get involved in SL photography to begin with?
Umshi: I was making avatar shapes and needed to advertise. A friend introduced me to Flickr and showed me the basics. I just enjoyed it so much that I don`t bother with the shapes anymore. I just taking pics and socialize.
Angela: In your 12 years in SL, what is a memory that stands out for you?
Umshi: Ha! Is this a PG magazine? Just kidding. 🙂 For 9-10 years all I did was build constantly. When I finished an epic build like a castle or a galleon and it`s all boxed-up in a rezzer and it pops-out with all your scripts working etc., that is a very satisfying moment.
Angela: So when you take a picture, do you have a routine?
Umshi: No. I do like to use all that’s available to me as and when its needed. I do shoot RAW also. It depends. Most shots 1 am using all windlights, camera tools, photo tools, and then I try to choose which appeals to me most. Sometimes, its the raw – the 1st shot. I dont have a favorite routine though but I do love B&W pics.
Angela: How did you learn about SL and what motivated you to join in 2007?
Umshi: I was on a train to London and someone left a glossy at my table. Inside was an article about a Chinese lady who was the 1st to make a million dollars from SL making clothes, I think. So I thought I needed to check that out., I’ve not quite made my 1st million yet though 🙂
Angela: If you could change something about SL, what would it be?
Umshi: The lagg monster. More powerful servers to make the game more slick. SL itself is about freedom to do what you want, be who you want to be – from the beautiful to the darker sides – so I`m all for live and let live. Whatever floats your boat in here. Let’s just get it working more smoothly please. Was working fine 12 years ago before broadband, so why are we still suffering in this day and age?
Technicolor Pachyderm
Angela: Is there anything you would like to say about the group?
Umshi: Just about groups like TSFTG. I love the fact people like yourself and Patrick lend yourselves wholly committed to help others, whether it`s showcasing someone’s art work or getting some more accomplished people together with enthusiasm, sharing knowledge, and helping others. I have been involved in the past in building schools similar and love what you two are doing here with regards to photography. Knowledge and experience should be shared to encourage others creativity. Thank you both for that. I know the hard work you both put in and also others within the group.
Angela: Thank you, Umshi!
Umshi: No, thank you!
Angela: My last question was going to be how TSFTG has affected your SL, but you seem to have answered that!
Umshi: Ohh hugely! Like a new family and new chapter in my SL journey. So many wonderful people here and the photography has been amazing to view in the Flickr group. Some really talented people here who`s work I greatly admire, But even some of the newer members, the creativity inspires me to keep on clicking.
Angela: And you are a moderator for the TSFTG Flickr group! Do you have any other groups of your own?
Umshi: Yes, I have several. “You are Cordially Invited” which is a more selective artsy group – not for snapshots – and “Show Me Your Stuff” which is a free for all anything goes group.
Angela: Do you consider yourself an artist?
Umshi: A piss artist maybe. I sing, play several instruments and build guitars in RL.
Angela: Wow! You are a man of many talents! You are a luthier in RL?
Umshi: I am, clever lady. 🙂 I have have a proper job, but I luthier at home in my spare time. I have many guitars out there by nearly-made-it guitarists. No super stars but have repaired a few for some UK stars. Not whole builds. And I still play and sing like a strangled cat though.
Angela: I doubt that! Have you ever thought about singing in SL?
Umshi: Excuse my French “fk that!” I play okay on my own, but in front of an audience I suddenly seem to be wearing boxing gloves.
Angela: Hmm. So what kinds of guitars do you build?
Umshi: Lately I have been into Cigar Box guitars. They sound so freaking awesome to me. Very raw and basic.
Angela: That is just amazing! Thank you so much for this interview, my friend!
Umshi: Thank you for asking. Though I got washed and dressed for this. I thought it was in voice with a piccy at the side, like doing a phone call for a chat show! I could of stayed in my board shorts and string vest.
