201MC: Denise Horsley Collaboration (mini)

Within the next coming weeks, I will be working with Denise on a short collaborative project. This project will highlight various emotions, through particular body movements. Further utilising the following moving image elements, such as 360VR and stop motion. Thus bringing each particular routine to life within this way, further accompanied by stills reflecting ‘muscle’, ‘tone’ and ‘feeling’.

As for inspirational media behind this project, Denise herself showed and studied the following music video, playing close attention to editing, the style of dance and the cinematography of the piece (which I touched on more prominently once I viewed the music video).

Another means of inspiration included my collaborators friend/photographer ‘Simon Richardson’. A photographer who specialises in movement and dance, with key interests in these fields and more.

Official site:Simon Richardson Rhythmic Skin

One particular page on Simon’s page includes his project ‘Rhythmic Skin’, which is one that I’ve sought inspiration from (after being introduced to his work by Denise). For me, these pictures which focus on muscle, skin and movement are really raw and captivating. They are even thought provoking and visually engaging, further creating a narrative of identity and bodily love. This is because each movement is pro-annunciated by a particular body muscle, further embossed through the type of lense and also angle, really adding to the final photographs themselves.

Madonna- Celebration

Upon starting to take inspiration, from Madonna’s music video, I started to capture moving images of Denise and stills. Further emphasising on emotion and feeling by encouraging Denise to improvise some routines. This helped me to really capture the raw emotion of ‘expressional dance’ as it gave me time to film Denise moving from various angles, further merging in 360VR and also moving image (in order to reverse and fast forward in post). One other element which was explored including utilising the ‘burst shot’ function on my Canon 700D. This helped me to document the whole routine in a few seconds, in order to view images back and forth as a ‘moving piece of film, also known as stop motion’.

Upon reflecting thus far on this particular collaboration, I would say that I am very excited to be documenting “feeling and emotion” through dance, with Denise as my subject. This is because she knows her craft inside and out, but is very free flowing in terms of how its distributed and even captured. Thus is further open to utilising modern mediums of technology (i.e 360VR) to really flourish and grow each particular movement.

Bibliography

1. Madonna (2009) Madonna – celebration. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lWTDR6ztcnQ (Accessed: 6 February 2017).In-line Citation:(madonna, 2009)
2. Kikuchi (2017) Rhythmic skin (Simon Richardson © 2017). Available at: http://simonrichardson.org/rhythmic-skin/ (Accessed: 6 February 2017).

Artefact Building

Upon looking over all footage, I wanted to start off with recreating some of the images into mini videos (also known as gifs). In order to hone in on movement and craft, in this way.

Example 1: DH Gif 1

Original Images:

 

201MC: Curational Exhibition (Reflection)

Today, we showcased our full exhibition to the general public and the rest of our peers. Before setting up we came across a few issues, but these were swiftly resolved calmly and effectively, as we had overlooked some of the parts within each equipment piece. This was sorted promptly, leaving us sufficient time to set-up each projection. Further playing close attention to how we’d want to use the space and make it more suitable for our overall exhibition, in terms of layout and how many chairs we settled on using.

One highlight of our exhibition for me, would have to be our use of space. This is because I felt we positioned each projection evenly, making sure to leave enough of a walk-way between each one, further making good use of the sofas within the box, to divide some of the space up (further filling the whole area well).

One negative would have to be our choice of day. Now although this could not be helped as the box was booked every other day, we did find that many of the shops within Fargo were shut. Thus the normal buzz of the village wasn’t very apparent as it was very quite. However, I would say that to an extent this worked to our favour, as we did usher a few people in with flyers and our posters. Further advertising ourselves and our project in a calming and engaging fashion, creating a little bit of a buzz amongst all.

In terms of the videos themselves they were edited well, as they included a still frame of our official logo, further drawing in the public in this way. Considering it was very large and eye catching, simply done using the colour black and white, expressing modernism and professionalism. One thing which could be done next time, could be that each video could be edited to a particular time stamp, so that each could not only play in loop (as they did) but also one after the other. Thus functioning as an automatic transition, in terms fo experiencing one subject and then another, paying close attention to visuals and dialogue more closely in a cozy yet quirky environment.

Overall upon reflecting on the whole experience, I’d definitely say that my team worked very well as a collaborative. I felt we stuck to deadlines (sometimes set myself), alongside various time stamps. Whilst the use of an ongoing agenda, helped us to really stay on track and even organised. Thus allowing sufficient time for us to really think about set-up, audience engagement and so forth. The last minute addition of “I Dream to be..” (a mini photoshoot) really engaged all of the public, as we kept their attention, by including a short sign up sheet, where we’d edit and distribute the photos to them directly. Thus establishing public satisfaction and so forth, as this particular element really helped to lift our exhibition, offering another platform for us to really delve in our overall concept of “Dream Chasers and Aspirational Influencers”, which many were interested to know and see more about, through the installational projections and even through us.

To end,  in planning and organising a curational exhibition from start to finish (including logistics, promotion etc.) with my whole team, I definitely learnt more about my skills and even my craft. This is because I have nurtured my independance and communication skills to a much more varied level, further stepping out of my comfort zone in working on a much bigger audience engagement project so far, to really offer all an engaging yet inspiring exhibition. Further celebrating the talent and professionalism of us as media practitioners/creators to those subjects which we spent time with and filmed, learning about their stories and spreading their vision to all. Thus I’d like to say a very big thank you to my team and even bigger one to the management team of ‘The Box’ and of course the general public/all our media peers/our lecturer(s) for visiting and taking time to really engage with our exhibition.

201MC Placement: Aarushi Shetty (Stop Motion Poem Collab.)

A few months ago, I began to collaborate with another student on a stop-motion project, surrounding their own written word poems.

Attached above include all my notes from each meeting. Upon reflecting on the progress of the project itself so far, I would probably give the following feedback to myself:

• Clear indication of project outline
• Clear lines of communication outlined between both students.
• Engaging and visually creative professional opportunity
• A chance to brush up on my editing skills in a more competitive way
• Possible future collaborations already established

Overall I would say, that I am very intrigued and excited to see how this particular project plans out. I’m further interested in pushing myself in terms of creativity and even professional practice. Considering I feel very passionate about what I do, whether that’s works as a solo creator or with another as a fellow collaborator. One main part of the project which really stands out to me at the moment, includes Aarushi’s strategies of promotion, as she is entrusting me with a large portion of the responsibilities involved in this particular role. Thus giving me the chance to showcase my skills as a promoter and also creator, in terms of poster designing, interactive photos and so forth.

201MC Curational Exhibition (game plan)

Before getting into groups, I had already had a general idea of what I’d like to do for the exhibition. This inspiration came from a piece of film which I had created with one of my groups in first year. In particular, the documentary of ‘People2People’, for which I chose ‘The Big Comfy Bookshop’ as my subject. I then talked to some of my peers which were involved in the ‘People2People’ project with me. Further deciding that it would be nice to gather all those with documentaries around Fargo Village, for which we’d merge together in order to present in some kind of exhibition.

People2People (Yr.1):

For example:

• An exhibition showcasing ‘the underdogs’ (peer suggestion), in Fargo Village (The Box).
• An installation where individuals can explore the documentaries themselves in an enclosed environment, with possible interactive features. in Fargo Village (The Box).

• An exhibition celebrating ‘dreams/aspirations’ with many still images from the general public showcasing this. With the final documentary mash-up featured somewhere within the exhibition. in Fargo Village (The Box).

Upon gaining critical feedback from one of my lecturers on behalf of my group, the following notes were discussed:

In terms of location, ‘Weavers House’ (near Ramada Hotel), St. Marys Guild Hall and ‘The Music Museum’ were suggested by my lecturer. She further pointed out that we could use a projector or even a Klynt which could really make our project stand out. As the Klynt could act as an interactive element to our exhibition, as audiences could choose where they’d like to start viewing each documentary mash up from, or even pictures either randomly or in order. Almost acting as an interactive media presentation (audience led). Other possible location suggestions included the media studio, The Canal Basin near the Transport Museum, Herbert Gallery and The Quadrant Pub. Overall

Overall its clear that these are very diverse suggestions, which would compliment our project well.

Another thing which was discussed included the logistics of the project. For example, my lecturer could not stress enough how important communication, agreement forms, risk assessments, consent forms and so forth would be. Considering that although it would be a small project, we’d have to make sure that we were compiling paperwork along the way, in order for us to deliver our project safely and well roundedly.

Overall I would say that general feedback was that my groups idea has alot of potential, as long as it is executed really well.

Thus to include, I am very excited about this project as I feel as a group we’ll really be able to showcase our strengths and so forth.

Below includes a full summary of my groups discussion around the project so far:

 

December 2016

Recently, I started to re-email all, after speaking to a Fargo Village representative (Jo). This helped me to gather more information, plus secure a particular date for our exhibition. Before doing so I had to tweek my groups overall idea due to a limited time frame. I then made sure to secure ‘The Box’ (Fargo Village) as soon as possible. this involved me emailing the main person in charge for queries regarding ‘The Box’ (Colin), who talked me through payment, availability and so forth. Although payment for the box (£50) day hire, proved expensive, I made sure to clear all with my group so that we could collate all documentaries together for a mash up plus plan the whole exhibition. So that we’d have everything planned and in motion a week before airing our main projectional event.

See emails attached below (+):

 

 

Upon reflection, I managed to stay calm and completely focused whilst negotiating all, in order to secure my groups desired location in due time. Luckily, I managed to sort all before Christmas time (as a lot of ‘The Box’ had already been booked out for the start of January). Thus proving effective on my part, as I really went above and beyond in liasoning and communicating with the making people I had too, in a professional and commanding way. Further making sure to emphasise ‘community engagement’, due to the fact that our project fits into the Coventry 2021 scheme.

To further reflect on my groups overall progress, I would say we each communicated effectively over the Christmas break. This further gave us a chance to go through all material that we’d like to collate, further assigning roles in greater detail. Followed by extensive to-do lists done by myself, to be done on a weekly basis as much as possible. Which were looked over and abided by, by all peers, further promoting effective team morale and communication.

 

 

201MC Professional Experience: Masterji (Exhibition)

Recently, I came across a post by one of my lecturers who had been working on the Masterji project, making the documentary.  Upon emailing photo archive miners, I was sent across more information about the volunteering project (see below). I further filled out a WP01 form to make the placement valid for my 201Mc Module.

volunteering-offer-masterji

A short video[1] on ‘Masterji’ by Nichole, which I came across on Photo Archive Miners official website [2].

What interested me, was the subject matter and the way in which the exhibition will be set up. One thing, upon speaking to the main co-ordinator/organiser of Photo Archive Miners for Masterji that I came to know about was what the exhibition was aiming to include. Elements of the exhibition on the whole, would feature a small photo gallery, a screening of the documentary and a photo booth (in Masterji’s style).

(3 hours completed) Before aiding with set up, I arrived at Fargo Village ‘The Box’ (where the exhibition will be held) promptly. However, upon walking into the box, we were met with an obstacle, as the previous people who had the venue, left all their stuff over time. This was later resolved as we’d realised there was a conflict in bookings. Luckily we made up a little time from 1:30pm instead of setting up at 10am. Upon constructing the small boxes, we soon got a schedule going on ordering all wood planks with the wood walls. After this was done, we later organised all into the correct formation. I was then informed alongside the other volunteers that the walls would be painted first, to remove marks thus scruffy wear was encouraged. Followed by the photographs which would go up later.

Photos from today’s session:

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Upon reflecting on my first day as a volunteer for this  project, I would say I’m very excited and intrigued. Considering I’m very eager to see the final set up for the exhibition. I further feel in helping with the set up of the project, promoting it and possibly helping out with the workshops that I’ll gain some really valuable skills in working as a team plus individually too thus am looking forward to my time on the ‘Masterji’ exhibition.

Bibliography

[1] Nichole (2016) Masterji. Available at: https://vimeo.com/159136063 (Accessed: 30 October 2016).

[2] Masterji | projects | photo archive miners (no date) Available at: https://photomining.org/projects/masterji (Accessed: 30 October 2016).

01/11/2016 (3 hours)

Today, I arrived early at Fargo Village, to see what I could help with in preparation for the exhibition. Upon entering, I got briefed on all the progress that had been made so far. I also met with Mark Cook, who I had talked too about the project right from the start,as he was the head co-ordinator of it. My roles today included doing another coat on the wooden panels, whilst also painting the skirting board too. Although I was the only one available to volunteer, during the morning, all those who were present (i.e the co-ordinators and me), really pushed selves to get things done. This worked to our advantage as we were thorough, precise and communicated with each other throughout. Upon reflecting on today’s volunteering experience, I’d say I am really having a very fun time lending my time to the exhibition itself. For me, its about working behind the scenes but also during the scenes aswell (i.e before, during and after the exhibition). Considering I feel by taking part in various roles with different prominence, I will truly grow as an individual in confidence, stamina, communication and effectiveness as I feel that this project is one which is not only truly fascinating but is a true gem to grace Coventry’s Fargo village very soon.

8/11/16 (1.5 hours)

Today, upon reaching Fargo Village I got to see the final exhibition. My duties today included clocking people in, whilst answering any questions they might have on the exhibition itself. I was further briefed on the manner in which I should greet all, and what the best way to enjoy the exhibition would be (i.e which way to go round). I further learn’t a bit more information on the exhibition itself by Mark Cook (Photo Archive Miners) and more information on the private screening coming up.

Reflection: Upon completing the whole project I contacted the head co-ordinator of the whole project in order to express my gratitude in taking part. During my time as a volunteer, I learn’t a lot about community service, hard work,presentation and even commitment. Considering that the whole team at ‘Photo Archive Miners’ really worked extremely hard in putting together an exhibition celebrating the life of ‘Masterji’, in re-mastering all of his photos within an entire exhibition. To end, this project has really shown to me the art of ones talent and how when shared with the community can really light up the whole atmosphere in such a positive and vibrant way.

Emails:

201MC:Geese Theatre Nursing I-Doc Summer Opportunity (reflection)

Duration: Summer 2016- Winter 2017 (2 Months +)

Over the summer, I was presented with the opportunity by one of my lecturers to take part in an Interactive Documentary project. Before I got on board, I was quite anxious and a little nervous as I had not done something like this before. However upon receiving a lot of information on the project, and details regarding my role I soon became very intrigued with the whole concept and so forth.

Essential Documents/Timesheet:

participant-information-sheet-copypost-module-surveypre-module-surveyresearch-question-areas-and-prompts i-doc-project-timesheet

Before starting the project, there were some concerns raised regarding my role. This was due to my location of where I was set. Considering that I was back home, thus the distance to Coventry would have been quite long. Luckily online cloud storage, helped me to receive the files on a weekly basis. This further proved useful, when I upgraded my cloud storage to 100GB as I managed to receive even more files than the standard storage usage.However as soon as the files came to me swiftly, my job as ‘editor’ became exciting and challenging.

In short, the project involved editing footage which focused on Geese Theatre Company giving a play to nursing students on mental health etc. The footage focused on The Faculty of Health and Life Sciences holding lectures for the students. Further capturing their thoughts and feelings on the whole project. To my understanding this was so The Faculty of Health and Life Sciences could use the final video as a way of promoting the Faculty and reaching out to new nursing students etc. But to also give those who are already students, some valuable information within the video, by including some footage from Geese Theatre Company.

Geese Theatre Company

Based at the Midlands Arts Centre, and working to develop theatre as a rehabilitative and motivational tool within the Criminal Justice System.[1]

Feedback/Progress Emails

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Edits

Draft 1

Amended Draft

Final Draft (Phase 1)

Upon creating various edits, I made sure to create separate bins for all files beforehand. This helped me to stay organised in the editing process, as everything was labelled and clear. Further helping me to pick and choose clips from the following categories which I labelled the folders as. For example Geese Theatre Performance, Week 1, 2 etc. One highlight of the editing process would have to be receiving the footage. This was because I was given enough freedom to experiment and try out different narratives or even sequences for the I-Doc itself. Further offering me scope to not only brush up on my editing skills but to also gain crucial and critical feedback from those involved in the project, to boost the overall quality of the short film and its sequence order.

Geese Theatre Company (Exclusive Clip)

 

Overall, upon reflecting on the project I would say I have learn’t alot. I have grasped the importance of time frame and feedback, managed to organise all the clips I recieevd quickly and efficently. Furthermore I took on feedback encouraging, making sure to push myself in meeting the project co-ordinator(s) needs and expectations. Whilst also keeping in regular contact with the file transferer and others involved in the project, giving me a greater idea of the importance of team work and organisation.

For next time, I would try an anticipate the duration of the project and where it would be best to be. Further maybe involving myself in the filming process, granted my location is nearby. Overall I would still carry my enthusiasm, focus and charisma to future projects. As I felt that although this was my first big summer project, I really dived into it straight away, gaining valuable skills and insights along the way.

Full Reference

ashish_patel_feedback_kw-signed

A few months after I had completed the assignment (November 2016), I was contacted by one of the supervisors on the ‘Geese Theatre PBL project’, who I expressed some suggestions for one final edit. Upon receiving the email, I swiftly brought up the last edit on my mac and started to amend all within the video, in order for a swift turn over upon sending footage to Danai herself.

Final Edit: Geese Theatre (Final Edits)

After receiving feedback on the edit, a few changes were suggested to tailor video more specifically. Upon going back to the video itself, a few problems arose. The main one being that some clips had merged audio files, thus the audio in particular clips did not match the specific image. Although it took some time, to re-loop some clips, I managed to keep my workflow organised. Attached below include all email grabs and the final edit itself (in various formats).

Final Version: FINAL version I-Doc

After sending over draft, further amendments had to be made. Although this took longer than planned, due to footage unlinking itself. I still managed to send over all in due time as quick as possible. This was appreciated highly from the main collaberator of the project(Katherine) who admired my time management skills and my attention to detail.

I-Doc Geese Theatre Professional Video 3: Final Final Edit

In terms of sorting out the final film to be interactively integrated, I used the following site ‘Storygami’. Upon reflecting on using the site, I had a lot of fun adding in all the interactive elements. Further adding in extra content to really boost the overall film. As I’ve used this tool before, the whole process ran fluidly and swiftly in me completing my time on the Geese Theatre project over the course of 7 weeks +, running from Summer 2016 all the way to Winter 2016.

Screen grabs + final film

 

Storygami Version:

Storygami Edit (Geese Theatre PBL Project)

Bibliography

[1] Geese theatre company (no date) Available at: http://www.geese.co.uk/ (Accessed: 22 September 2016).

[2] Geese Theatre Company (2015) Geese theatre company training and conferences. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YC8zEUxHlsw (Accessed: 22 September 2016).