So begins my research into understanding wave theory. My goal is to have a grasp on the basic principles of waves as I begin working with water ripples in my work. The research might lead to consideration of waves outside the scope of water (i.e. - sound), but initially attempting to keep my focus on waves as they relate to liquid.
Odes to Opposites
I first learned about Chilean poet Pablo Neruda when my older brother Karl returned from a year of volunteering at an orphanage in Santiago, Chile in 1993. He brought me back a few gifts from his travels - a (scary-looking) marionette puppet, some candy, and a compilation of Neruda's poems. Though the poems were in Spanish, I understood enough to realize the depth and beauty of Neruda's writing.
Recently, I came across Neruda's 'Odes to Opposites' while browsing the stacks at a local bookstore (i.e. - thumbing through Amazon on my iPhone). The title captured my attention due to my interest in the psychological concept of cognitive dissonance. Cognitive dissonance is the psychological discomfort you feel when you hold two opposing beliefs/ideas simultaneously. This theory acknowledges the push-and-pull we experience in our lives, and looks into the ways we reconcile this tension.
As the title suggests, the book explores 'opposites' in poetry form - 'Ode to fall' is followed with 'Ode to spring.' Each poem is presented in Spanish and English. My Spanish has been packed away for a few years, but I challenged myself to read Neruda's work in its intended language - to sense the rhythm and melody present. My eyes did wander to the English translation a few times, and this action surfaced many of the conversations on semiotics we have been having in Theory & Criticism Seminar.
Inaugural Post
After years of being a voracious consumer of art and design blogs, the time has arrived to create my own. This blog will explore that which inspires my work as an artist and a designer, and serve as a platform for self reflection throughout the creative process.
