#I like to lean into the digital media aspect from time to time

[sonicdesolation]

Omg the gif thing you did for the new page is

✨Amazing✨

The urge to scream in joy is too much AAAAAAAAA-

Thank you!! It was very fun to make :D

[jiggery-duggery]

Hitting you with the SEVENTEEN

Auuufh Nat you have truly hit me with the WHOPPER bc favourite character? Like, in general??? Of all time???? I can only pick one?????

Impossible. So instead of giving one long detailed answer about my All Time Favourite Character Ever Of All Time I’m going to give a series of half assed answers on some guys I like

I feel like I have to start with the Beheaded since so many ppl here see me as the Dead Cells Guy. I like them. Lots to discuss and think about because SPOILER ALERT, they are actually the soul of the king, who doomed the whole island to ruin, who was separated from his body and has amnesia, and who it’s strongly implied has gone a bit insane in his pursuit for immortality. I honestly often wish dc would lean a bit less heavily on the humour aspect of the game and actually sink their fingers into the lore, really dig deep and get into it and feed us poor lore fans, but that’s just not the kind of game it is, and that’s ok. At least we will always have going insane with your friends in discord servers.

Since we are forever sisters in Okami I should talk about that next. Back in the day I’d say my favourite character was Waka or Yami but now? I’m an Oki guy. I like him, he’s funny. I wanna draw him again. I like the part where he goes back in time to face Orochi and is like “your words can’t hurt me because I’m not from here and have no fucking clue what you’re talking about.”

The media I have currently been consuming is Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. There’s a lot of characters who I vibe hard with but if you asked me to pick one favourite character right now it would be Envy. Yes they did All That but were also kind of slaying at the same time? They lived, served cunt, got turned into a worm, got revived, served even more cunt, got turned into a worm again, then killed themself. Their death made me feel a bit bad. Not a lot, but a bit.

Also as you know I have been reading the Legend of Drizzt books lately. Favourite character from those? Jarlaxle, hands fucking down, no contest. Love that guy. Cheer and clap whenever he’s on the page. Definitely a contender for top fictional character ever of all time. Don’t know all that much about him yet because I’m not even in the double digits, but I’m excited to learn more. Hear he gets lowkey possessed by an evil crystal later on and recreates 9/11. I for one cannot wait.

As for favourite original character? Heh. Well. You know…

[margapenelopebasa]

In a blink of an eye...

...media has really grown since then, hasn't it?

To think people once started with carving rocks to simply pressing a button on a screen for them to interact with each other is, without a doubt, nothing short of astonishing. Sometimes, we start to forget how much of a long way we came from---especially in regards to how easy it is to exchange with other people. If we pretend like nothing of the sort happened, for all you know, we'd still be painting caves and chanting rituals for us to understand each other. I mean, I'm pretty sure none of our first ancestors would have imagined being able to post their MIL Values Integration activity on Tumblr using a phone before.

Now, with all this evolution and progression, we've come to create numerous types of media that can be so similar yet different at the same time. They all, in a way, share the same purpose, yet have varying mediums they are expressed on. Again, we've come SUCH a long way since then that we now have different categories to classify these examples of media! How cool is that?

According to the Media and Information Literacy subject, there are 4 types of media; Print, Broadcast, Digital, and Converged Media. To put is simply:

PRINT - is when the media is physically written or printed on paper, BROADCAST - is when the media is transmitted through local stations, national networks, and public networks, DIGITAL - is when the media is organized and distributed through digital platforms, and CONVERGED - when the media is a combination of all aforementioned three simultaneously.

So how did the evolution of the different types of media shape the values and norms of people and society? With how I see it, the way we lived our daily lives significantly changed depending on what type of media was available or most in favor at the time. For example, it must've been normal for our early ancestors to communicate through painting and carving. Instead of a singular reliable verbal language, they communicated through drawing and depicting pictures. At the time, pictographs and the like were the norm, and so the people of this period leaned on this type of medium---which can be heavily classified as print media.

This later evolved into sending letters and other written forms of media. Text messaging was not a thing back then, and it usually took ages for people of this period to receive said letters from their loved ones or friends. And as you know it, the cycle goes, and what people perceive to be normal and on trend greatly corresponds to what media was in use at the time.

Now that you've gotten this far...

As a student uploading on Tumblr, it just goes to show that we now live in our current age, where digital facilities and the internet are prevalent. Following this, I would also like to note how these same different types of media help us right now and how they affect our quality of life in general---namely in three given aspects: Education, Business, and Healthcare.

EDUCATION. I don't think you'd be able to learn or educate in the first place without using media. In any type, be it print, broadcast, digital, or converged media, schools use these to produce materials so that their students are able to learn the necessary lessons they are expected to master. Textbooks, educative podcasts, learning resources online, or scholarly websites on the internet all showcase different types of media.

BUSINESS. Workplaces produce paperwork on a daily basis---and they make a LOT of it. Aside from physical paperwork, it is also common to see these workplaces hosting seminars, specially for their own workers. They also use digital platforms, and often use social media and the internet as platforms to promote their business.

HEALTHCARE. Have you ever noticed when you attend a check-up with your doctor, they give you different papers for all the processes you go through in a hospital? Papers are necessary for documentation, though they also back up these files digitally. There are also free courses online that when attended to, can expand your knowledge on the in-and-outs of medicine. Additionally, doctors, in order to garner an audience and attract patients, tend to use the internet to promote their services.

So, when you really think about it, media surrounds all of us. And not only does it do that, but it also widely used in everything around us. We, as humankind heavily rely on each other to get by. Without media, there really wouldn't be any communication, organization, and togetherness within a community; and are we even classified as a society if there wasn't any interaction?

#AMILeAhead

[dk-wren]

Rogers: The Musical First Impressions

Just finished watching a recording of Rogers: The Musical, which I am so happy to finally say, is currently running at the Hyperion Theatre inside Disney's California Adventure theme park on select days through Aug. 31st!

While subject to change, Rogers: The Musical will typically run from Tuesday to Saturday, with performances at 12:30, 2:00, 4:00, and 5:30

Here is a link to the recording I watched, but there are already plenty of videos of the whole show to choose from. Just thought I'd include it since my thoughts may be specific to what I saw in this video.

Summary of Final thoughts: I was very excited about this musical actually becoming a real thing and being developed more. Additionally, I was super interested to see if Disney tried to develop it as a serious musical or leaned more into the satire and comedy of "Save the City." Bottom line, I had so much fun watching it and thoroughly enjoyed it. I am a huge theatre fan, so definitely have a few critiques, but given its constraints, for a first production, really great.

And now, if you are interested, here is my long list of more in depth first impressions/thoughts:

Even based solely on what's been adapted in the MCU, there's still a lot of history that could be covered in a musical about Steve Rogers, which this musical does attempt to cover. So, the pacing is pretty quick.

It's kinda like a slideshow where you see the snapshots, but not the details. The only times it felt like I had a break to just sit and be in the moment was during the songs/musical numbers. Now, I don't think I can necessarily say this is a negative since it is only a 35 minute musical. I just had to sorta shift my expectations.

Building off of that, for a 35 minute, theme park musical, I'd say it's pretty darn good. It had less base material compared to Aladdin or Frozen (the previous two musicals staged in the Hyperion Theatre) that could easily translate to the stage, which allowed this creative team to have a lot of freedom in how to adapt this story for the stage. And, honestly, I really enjoyed their choices.

It's Disney and it's their theme parks. Avengers Campus is literally steps away from this theatre, so they absolutely could have gone all in in designing beautifully elaborate costumes, specifically the super hero suites. But they didn't, and I kinda liked it. Part of the decision for the actors' costumes to look more like everyday clothing likely comes from the design choices made for "Save the City" when it appeared in Hawkeye, but also, if the Captain America walk-around costume was to be the one used in this musical, I feel it would actually look a little out of place. I enjoyed how the costumes weren't one-to-one reproductions, but rather representations of each character and their signature look. You can still clearly tell who is who, but it matches the more minimalist style of the stage design too.

Loved The Starkettes! In terms of costuming, loved how their looks changed between the 40s/USO look and the modern day/business look to reflect the setting. I'm debating if I want to refer to them as the narrators or the chorus, but either way, loved their interactions with the Marvel characters and responses to certain lines in the show.

At least from this video, the projections and digital backdrops looked well done. Loved how there was not an emphasis on making like Times Square look hyper-realistic.

I don't think I'd say the digital backgrounds looked cartoonish, especially in a bad way, but there definitely is an aspect to them that's meant to be stylized. Again, this then compliments the design choices of like 3 comic book covers and that whole sequence about Steve fighting in WWII.

I could be wrong, but Rogers seems to have a smaller cast than Aladdin or Frozen. Absolutely loved their performances, but sometimes it felt like the stage was a little too big or too bare for the size of the ensemble/cast (could also be due to having minimal set pieces). - This is meant as an observation not as a critique

During the scene in which Steve and Peggy are chatting about going dancing before he crashes the plane into the ice, that conversation was translated into a song. And in my head, I was like YES!!! That's how you do a musical adaptation. You take those iconic and emotionally charged lines and put them to music.

Like I said at the very beginning, there's a lot that could be covered in a musical about Steve Rogers, so I kinda appreciated how there was like a mini reprise or continuation of "Save the City" as announcements came about attacks in different locations, which corresponds to all or most of the movies Captain America has been in. It reminded me of "Drive" from The Lightning Thief of quickly condensing a bunch of events/locations into the span of a few minutes, something the musical needed given its runtime.

This way, it acknowledges those events rather than completely ignoring them, but doesn't spend a whole lot of time with each one. The way I interpreted it too, when Cap sings the very last "I can do this all day," it then feels kinda somber in that he is reflecting on having to continuously fight in all these battles, with the expectation of always "saving the city." Plus, I thought it was a great transition to the next song, which in all honesty, I could not tell from the video if it was meant to be pre-serum or old Steve.

Loved how everyone came back out in the end for the finale (it's like memory lane)

Hoping to see it in person. This recording just confirmed to me that I am going to have a good time. Literally, big smile on my face, quietly cheering and whooping throughout the show, I'm just so excited to (hopefully) go to the theatre for a purely fun/good time.

[dylan-harris17]

Week 1 Blog

Social media, in my opinion, is best defined as digital platforms that enable individuals and communities to create, share, and interact with content in real time or asynchronously. While the textbook may focus on the technological or business aspects of social media, I believe its essence lies in its ability to connect people through shared ideas, experiences, and conversations. Social media is more than just tools or apps; it’s a cultural phenomenon that has transformed the way we communicate, consume information, and express ourselves. From platforms like Facebook and Instagram to TikTok and LinkedIn, social media serves as both a mirror and a catalyst for societal trends and personal expression.

As a social media user, I would describe myself as a "selective participant." I use platforms primarily to stay informed, connect with friends and family, and occasionally share my thoughts or experiences. However, I am not the type to document every aspect of my life or chase viral moments. My habits lean toward consuming content rather than creating it, and I gravitate toward platforms that offer a mix of entertainment and information, such as Instagram, Twitter (or X), and YouTube. I’m also mindful of the time I spend on social media, often setting limits to ensure it doesn’t interfere with other aspects of my life. In some ways, I see myself as a critical observer of social media—I’m fascinated by the way trends evolve and how platforms influence public discourse, but I’m also wary of its potential downsides.

One of my strengths in understanding social media is my ability to analyze how it shapes communication and culture. I’ve studied media literacy and have a solid grasp of concepts like algorithmic influence, echo chambers, and the role of user-generated content. This analytical mindset helps me approach social media critically, allowing me to discern credible information from misinformation and recognize the underlying motives behind certain types of content. Additionally, I’m comfortable navigating multiple platforms and understanding their unique features and audience dynamics, which gives me a broader perspective on their uses and impact.

However, I do face challenges when it comes to social media. One of the biggest is keeping up with the rapid pace of change. New platforms, features, and trends emerge constantly, and it can be overwhelming to stay updated. I also struggle with balancing the positive aspects of social media—like staying connected and informed—with its more negative sides, such as doomscrolling or feeling pressured to present a curated version of myself. Another challenge is understanding the deeper technical aspects, such as how algorithms are coded or how data privacy policies impact users, which I hope to learn more about in this class.

Through this course, I want to deepen my understanding of social media from both a theoretical and practical perspective. I’m particularly interested in learning how social media can be used responsibly and ethically, both as an individual and in professional contexts. I hope to gain insights into effective strategies for content creation, community engagement, and digital marketing, as these skills are increasingly valuable in today’s world. Beyond the class, I want to become more intentional in my social media use, leveraging it as a tool for personal growth, creativity, and meaningful connections rather than letting it become a passive or negative influence. Ultimately, I aim to leave this course not only as a more informed user but as someone who can critically engage with social media to make a positive impact.

[emergent62]

The Post-Holiday Blues: A Personal Journey

As I sit here, wrapped in my favorite blanket and nursing a cup of chamomile tea, I can’t help but reflect on the whirlwind of emotions that always seem to follow the holiday season. If you’re anything like me, you might be feeling a mix of relief that the festivities are over and a touch of sadness that the magic has faded. Trust me, I’ve been there – post-holiday burnout is real, and it’s something I’ve grappled with year after year.

I remember last year vividly. After weeks of non-stop shopping, cooking, and socializing, I found myself slumped on the couch on January 2nd, surrounded by discarded wrapping paper and half-eaten leftovers. The house felt eerily quiet, and a wave of exhaustion hit me like a ton of bricks. That’s when I realized I needed to take action and prioritize my mental health.

Recognizing the Signs of Post-Holiday Burnout

Before we dive into the self-care strategies that have been my saving grace, let’s talk about what post-holiday burnout actually looks like. For me, it manifests as:

Feeling physically and emotionally drained

Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

Irritability and mood swings

A sense of emptiness or lack of purpose

Disrupted sleep patterns

Sound familiar? If you’re nodding along, don’t worry – you’re not alone, and there are ways to bounce back.

Self-Care Routines for Post-Holiday Recovery

1. Embrace the Power of Rest

After the holiday hustle, I’ve learned that rest isn’t just a luxury – it’s a necessity. I make it a point to carve out dedicated time for sleep and relaxation. This might mean going to bed an hour earlier or indulging in a midday nap without guilt. Remember, your body and mind need time to recharge after all that festive energy

2. Nourish Your Body

I’ll be the first to admit that my eating habits go out the window during the holidays. To combat this, I focus on getting back to nourishing, whole foods. I stock up on fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, and I make sure to stay hydrated. It’s amazing how much better I feel when I fuel my body properly

3. Move Your Body Gently

While I’m not one for intense workouts right after the holidays, I’ve found that gentle movement works wonders for my mood. A leisurely walk in nature, some light stretching, or a relaxing yoga session can help shake off that post-holiday sluggishness and boost those feel-good endorphins

4. Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude

One of the most powerful tools in my post-holiday recovery kit is mindfulness. I take a few minutes each day to meditate or simply focus on my breath. Additionally, I’ve started a gratitude practice where I jot down three things I’m thankful for each day. It helps shift my perspective from what I’ve lost (the holiday cheer) to what I still have

5. Declutter and Organize

There’s something incredibly therapeutic about tidying up after the chaos of the holidays. I set aside a day to declutter my space, put away decorations, and organize my surroundings. A clean, organized environment helps clear my mind and gives me a sense of a fresh start

6. Connect Authentically

While I love the social aspect of the holidays, I often find myself craving more meaningful connections afterward. I make it a point to reach out to close friends or family members for heart-to-heart conversations. Sometimes, a genuine chat over coffee can be more rejuvenating than any party

7. Set Realistic Goals

As the new year begins, I used to fall into the trap of setting grandiose resolutions. Now, I focus on setting small, achievable goals that give me a sense of purpose without overwhelming me. It might be as simple as reading a book a month or trying a new recipe each week

8. Limit Screen Time

After weeks of holiday movies and endless scrolling through social media, I find that a digital detox does wonders for my mental health. I set boundaries around my screen time, opting for offline activities like reading, crafting, or spending time in nature

9. Indulge in Small Pleasures

I’ve learned that self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate. Sometimes, it’s the small indulgences that make the biggest difference. For me, it might be taking a long bubble bath, lighting my favorite scented candle, or curling up with a good book. These little moments of joy can be incredibly restorative

10. Seek Support If Needed

Finally, I want to emphasize that it’s okay to ask for help if you’re struggling. Whether it’s talking to a trusted friend, joining a support group, or seeking professional help, reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness

Embracing a Gentle Transition

As I’ve navigated post-holiday burnout over the years, I’ve come to appreciate this time as a period of gentle transition. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the past year, reset our intentions, and move forward with renewed energy and purpose. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish – it’s essential. By taking care of ourselves, we’re better equipped to face the challenges and joys that the new year brings. So, as you navigate your own post-holiday journey, be kind to yourself. Take it one day at a time, and know that with a little self-care and patience, you’ll soon be feeling refreshed and ready to embrace all that lies ahead. Here’s to a year of growth, self-discovery, and well-deserved moments of peace. You’ve got this, and remember – I’m right there with you, taking it one cup of tea at a time.

Contact Us

[rosesartcorner]

It's funny, once you've got space to grow and change you become unstoppable.

A little personal blurb about my personal artistic journey below the cut.

I can not overstate how much I never thought Id be at this point. For a long time I felt like my art wasn't good enough. Because I was made to feel that way by my father. He made me feel like it was a career, and if I wanted to "make money" doing this I couldn't draw what made me happy.

I've been practicing my traditional and digital art skills for over 10 years. I doodled here and there when I was little but nothing ever really came of it. Then when I was in middle school I met a lot of friends who are now my family, that we're artistic. It really inspired me to start drawing and sketching. It was fun and I made quite a bit. Nothing was really anything fantastic but it was the start. No one starts good at anything. I continued to draw into highschool, and when I got the opportunity to take a digital media course as a part time vocational class I signed up almost immediately.

Unfortunately it kind of ended up being what shot my confidence and drive as an artist. There were quite a lot of concepts I never really got the hang of. I was never really short on art supplies, but learning material tended to be few and far between. That's also when my father took another shot at my confidence. From that point on it began to feel like a chore, like I couldn't do it for me. I was so focused on trying to force myself to learn to run before I could walk that it frustrated me to a point of not having fun with it any more.

It sucked, I felt the pull but couldn't muster the drive to do it. When I socially transitioned, an aspect that had been a major stressor in my life had finally changed for the better. It forced a lot to come into perspective and I began slowly but surely building that confidence back up. Taking the time to learn and trust the process. Things didn't really start to pick up the pace until February of last year.

February of 2023 one of the most impactful events of my life occurred and a lot of things changed very fast. I ended up cutting ties with my father and being taken in by some of my closest friends. I put a lot of those emotions into my art and really leaned into references. I managed to pull off a lot of growth last year, learning a lot of concepts that I had struggled with in the past. This year was crazy good for development, I feel like I'm finally coming into something that feels like my own. I've been working a lot with color and line weight this year and I'm so happy to know that what once I saw as unachievable is now just a stepping stone for something better. There's no longer a ceiling or a place where I'm trying to get to. I've developed the philosophy that if I think I've perfected things, then I've plateaued. I am to never stop learning.

[iquallinfoweb]

Exploring the Latest Website Design Trends in Rajkot - A Comprehensive Guide

Rajkot, a rapidly growing city in Gujarat, India, is making a mark in the tech industry, especially in website design. With a flourishing digital landscape and an increasing number of businesses going online, the demand for modern, functional, and aesthetically pleasing websites has surged. To keep up with the competition, it's crucial to stay updated on the latest website design trends in Rajkot. In this blog, we'll explore cutting-edge web design practices, from responsive designs to user-centric approaches, and highlight the role of top local companies like i-Quall in shaping this transformation.

As more businesses in Rajkot establish an online presence, website design has become an essential component of brand identity and user engagement. Modern website design not only enhances the visual appeal of a brand but also ensures better user experiences (UX), improved performance, and mobile compatibility. These factors directly influence customer trust and business growth. Let's explore the trends that are currently influencing website design in Rajkot and how these developments align with global standards.

1. Responsive Web Design

One of the most significant trends in website design is creating websites that are mobile-friendly and responsive. In Rajkot, where mobile internet usage is rapidly growing, ensuring that websites are optimized for different devices is crucial.

Steps for Implementing Responsive Web Design:

Fluid Grids: Use percentages instead of fixed pixels to make layout adjustments smooth across devices.

Flexible Images: Images should resize according to screen size without losing quality.

Media Queries: Customize website content for different screen sizes using CSS media queries.

Touch-friendly Design: For mobile devices, ensure buttons and interactive elements are large enough to be tapped with ease.

Responsive design in Rajkot has been driven by user demand, as more locals rely on smartphones to access the web. Rajkot-based companies like i-Quall excel in creating mobile-optimized websites that ensure seamless transitions from desktop to mobile.

2. Minimalistic Design and White Space

Simplicity is key when it comes to modern web design. Minimalistic design focuses on eliminating unnecessary elements, allowing users to navigate websites without distraction. Rajkot’s local market has begun embracing this approach, particularly in industries such as e-commerce, hospitality, and education.

Why Minimalistic Design is Trending:

Focus on Content: A clean design directs attention to the core message or products.

Faster Load Times: Fewer elements mean less data to load, improving website performance.

Enhanced Readability: Using ample white space improves user experience by making content easier to read.

Designers in Rajkot are leaning towards using minimal color schemes and clean typography to present information in a structured, appealing way.

3. User-Centric Design (UX/UI)

User experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design have gained immense importance in Rajkot’s web development scene. Websites are now being designed to cater to users' needs, ensuring intuitive navigation, better accessibility, and engaging content.

Steps to Enhance UX/UI in Website Design:

Clear Navigation: Ensure the website has clear menus and call-to-action buttons to guide users effectively.

Fast Load Speeds: Optimizing website speed is essential for reducing bounce rates.

Consistency: Use consistent design elements (fonts, colors, buttons) throughout the site.

Accessibility: Ensure the website is accessible to users with disabilities by using proper contrast, alt-text for images, and keyboard navigation.

Local businesses in Rajkot, with help from experts like i-Quall, are increasingly adopting user-centric design practices, enhancing their engagement with customers.

4. Bold Typography and Custom Fonts

Typography has become an essential aspect of modern website design. Bold fonts, custom typefaces, and creative use of text draw attention and contribute to a brand’s identity. In Rajkot, businesses are incorporating bold typography to make websites more distinctive and memorable.

Examples of Effective Typography Use:

Headlines in Bold, Large Fonts: Catch the user’s attention immediately.

Custom Fonts for Brand Identity: Use fonts that align with the business's tone and message.

Readability Across Devices: Ensure the font sizes adapt well across different screen sizes.

Bold typography is particularly useful for Rajkot’s local businesses that want to stand out in competitive markets.

5. Interactive Elements and Micro-Animations

Interactive elements and subtle animations have taken website design to new heights. These trends engage users by offering dynamic experiences, making the browsing experience more enjoyable.

Types of Interactive Elements:

Hover Effects: Show changes in button color or shape when the cursor hovers over it.

Scroll Animations: Elements that appear or animate as users scroll down the page.

Interactive Forms: Make data entry forms dynamic with real-time validation and feedback.

Adding micro-animations enhances user engagement without overwhelming visitors. Rajkot’s web design community is increasingly incorporating these features to differentiate websites and make them more dynamic.

6. Dark Mode Design

Dark mode has grown popular due to its visually appealing look and reduced eye strain, especially when browsing at night. This trend is picking up in Rajkot, where websites are offering both light and dark mode options.

Benefits of Dark Mode:

Reduced Eye Strain: Darker backgrounds are easier on the eyes in low-light environments.

Energy Efficiency: Dark mode saves battery life on OLED screens.

Modern Aesthetic: It gives websites a sleek, futuristic appearance.

Designers in Rajkot are integrating dark mode as a toggle option, giving users control over how they view the content.

Rajkot-based i-Quall, a leading web design and development company, is at the forefront of adopting these trends. Specializing in responsive, user-centric, and minimalistic designs, i-Quall ensures that local businesses remain competitive in the digital arena. Their team of experienced designers and developers not only follows global best practices but also tailors solutions specific to the unique needs of businesses in Rajkot. Whether it’s integrating interactive elements or ensuring fast load speeds, i-Quall is setting benchmarks in the web design industry.

Consider a local clothing retailer in Rajkot that wants to revamp its website. The business approached i-Quall with the goal of making the website more mobile-friendly, visually appealing, and user-centric. i-Quall redesigned the website by:

Creating a responsive layout that adapts to mobile and tablet screens.

Using minimalistic design with bold typography to highlight their product offerings.

Implementing interactive product galleries with hover animations.

Enhancing UX by improving navigation and site speed.

The result? The business saw a 30% increase in mobile traffic and a 15% boost in online sales within three months.

Conclusion

Staying ahead of the latest website design trends is critical for businesses in Rajkot to thrive in the digital era. From responsive and user-centric designs to bold typography and dark mode, these trends reflect the evolving expectations of users and the digital ecosystem. Companies like i-Quall Infoweb are leading the charge by delivering cutting-edge solutions that not only enhance aesthetics but also improve functionality. By embracing these trends, businesses in Rajkot can ensure a competitive edge, delivering better user experiences and driving growth.

URL : https://www.i-quall.com/rajkot/website-design-trends-rajkot/

[wengyan]

Week 8: Body Modification on Visual Social Media

Hello! It’s been a while, I hope everyone is doing well. Welcome back to my blog~  

Before I start, has anyone ever experienced comparing our looks with influencers/celebrities on the Internet? Well, I’m sure the majority of us have gone through this stage, especially during puberty. Sad to say that I, myself have gone through it too. However, I walked out of that stage! With this being said, I would like to dive into body modification on visual social media in this blog.

As we all know, social media users like to present their best side and will go to any length to appear as the most flawless version of themselves in order to meet social media standards (Linton 2023). Body changes have been increasingly severe throughout time, and they may now be affecting younger generations. It all began with influencers and celebrities undergoing cosmetic surgeries such as the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) and rhinoplasty. 'What is BBL?' you might wonder. It is a surgical treatment in which fat is extracted from the stomach or back and injected into a woman's buttocks to achieve a larger, more shapely behind and a smaller waist (Greenwood 2021).

BBL is more commonly found and done in the West because Westerners’ body standards lean towards the wider aspects. As for Asians, they focus more on facial surgeries rather than body surgeries. For example, South Korea has been famous for getting rhinoplasty (nose job), liposuction and blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) for almost a decade and people would travel all the way there just to undergo the procedure (Peterson 2023). 

However, other than plastic surgery, there are various ways to showcase your good qualities on the Internet. There have been an increasing number of editing tools that allow people to transform their appearance into a completely different person. Individuals who solely care about how they appear on social media might choose to edit because it is free and takes only a few minutes. Meanwhile, people with a strong desire to modify their appearance in real life and in the long run will choose cosmetic surgery to boost their confidence and self-esteem.

The widespread acceptance of body modification has made people so insecure about their natural appearances that they strive to transform themselves into what is deemed as 'perfection' on social media. Despite this, I feel that as social media users, we must remember and be mindful that nearly anything posted online is false and never represents reality. What we see on social media reflects only a fraction of a person's life. We should never compare ourselves to others, especially strangers, because we do not know their entire story. In contrast, we should begin to prioritise our well-being and seek out things that bring us happiness and positivity rather than pessimism (How to Cope if Social Media Affects Your Body Image 2023). 

As the saying goes, “Everyone has imperfections and insecurities, that is what makes us humans!”. With this blog, I hope people will start to appreciate their natural beauty and accept themselves for who they are. If you are still reading, thank you for scrolling all the way here. I will see you in my next blog, byebye!

References

Greenwood, D 2021, The BBL Bubble: How Social Media Fuels Body Modification, Psychology Today, viewed 14 June 2024, <https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/mirror-mirror/202108/the-bbl-bubble-how-social-media-fuels-body-modification>.

How to Cope if Social Media Affects Your Body Image 2023b, YoungMinds, viewed 14 June 2024, <https://www.youngminds.org.uk/young-person/blog/how-to-cope-if-social-media-affects-your-body-image/>.

Linton, LB 2023, Digital Modification on Social Media: How Does the Content You Engage with Affect Your Body Image? – PIT Journal, PIT Journal – The People, Ideas, and Things Journal, viewed 14 June 2024, <https://pitjournal.unc.edu/2023/06/20/digital-modification-on-social-media-how-does-the-content-you-engage-with-affect-your-body-image/>.

Peterson, J 2023, Beauty Across Borders: Exploring the Most Popular Plastic Surgeries Around the Globe! - Jack Peterson MD, Jack Peterson MD, viewed 14 June 2024, <https://drjackpeterson.com/blog/most-popular-plastic-surgeries-around-the-globe/#:~:text=In%20South%20Korea,%20the%20most,and%20blepharoplasty%20(eyelid%20surgery)>.

[lexdigitalpartners]

Digital Marketing Agency in Lexington: Transforming Business Growth

In today's competitive landscape, having a strong online presence is essential for businesses of all sizes. With the digital world constantly evolving, it can be challenging for businesses to keep up with the latest trends and techniques. This is where digital marketing agencies play a crucial role in helping businesses navigate the digital landscape and achieve their marketing goals.

Understanding the Importance of Digital Marketing Agencies

A digital marketing agency is a company that specializes in providing a range of online marketing services to businesses. These services often include search engine optimization (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, social media marketing, content marketing, email marketing, and more.

Businesses need digital marketing agencies because in today's digital age, consumers rely heavily on the internet to find products and services. A digital marketing agency helps businesses increase their online visibility, attract targeted traffic to their website, and convert visitors into customers.

The Significance of Localized Marketing

Targeting local markets is crucial for businesses operating in a specific geographic location. Localized marketing allows businesses to connect with their target audience on a more personal level and drive foot traffic to their physical location. A local digital marketing agency, such as Lex Digital Partners, understands the unique needs and challenges of businesses in a specific area. By leveraging their local expertise, they can create customized marketing strategies that resonate with the target audience and drive results.

Introducing Lex Digital Partners

At Lex Digital Partners, we are more than just a digital marketing agency. We are a fast-moving, efficient, and new-age agency dedicated to the Lexington, Kentucky economy. Unlike traditional agencies with huge offices and staff, we operate lean and leverage the best technology available for our internal operations.

Services Offered by Lex Digital Partners

We offer a comprehensive range of digital marketing services designed to help businesses thrive in the online world. From SEO and PPC advertising to social media management and content creation, we have the expertise to take your business to the next level. Our team understands that every business is unique, which is why we tailor our strategies to meet the specific needs and goals of each client.

Advantages of Working with a Digital Marketing Agency

By partnering with a digital marketing agency, businesses gain access to a team of experts with years of experience in the industry. Our team stays up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques to ensure our clients stay ahead of the competition. Outsourcing your digital marketing efforts to an agency like Lex Digital Partners can be more cost-effective than hiring an in-house team. We handle all aspects of your online marketing strategy, saving you time and resources that can be allocated elsewhere in your business.

Why Choose Lex Digital Partners?

As a local agency, we are deeply invested in the success of businesses in the Lexington area. We understand the local market dynamics and know what it takes to help businesses thrive in this competitive landscape. Unlike traditional agencies, we operate lean and leverage the latest technology to streamline our operations. This allows us to deliver exceptional results to our clients while keeping costs down.

Client Success Stories

But don't just take our word for it. Here's what some of our satisfied clients have to say about working with Lex Digital Partners:

"Since partnering with Lex Digital Partners, our online sales have skyrocketed. Their team's expertise and dedication have truly made a difference for our business." - Sarah, Local Retailer

"Thanks to the customized marketing strategy developed by Lex Digital Partners, we've seen a significant increase in website traffic and leads. I highly recommend their services to any business looking to grow online." - John, Small Business Owner

Conclusion

In conclusion, digital marketing agencies play a vital role in helping businesses navigate the complex world of online marketing. By partnering with a local agency like Lex Digital Partners, businesses in the Lexington area can benefit from customized strategies, expert advice, and tangible results. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help take your business to new heights.

FAQs

What makes Lex Digital Partners stand out from other agencies? At Lex Digital Partners, we prioritize personalized service, cutting-edge technology, and a deep understanding of the local market.

How can digital marketing help businesses in Lexington? Digital marketing can help businesses in Lexington increase their online visibility, attract more customers, and drive growth.

What industries does Lex Digital Partners specialize in? We work with businesses across various industries, including retail, healthcare, hospitality, real estate, and more.

Do you offer customizable marketing packages? Yes, we understand that every business has unique needs and goals. That's why we offer customizable marketing packages tailored to each client.

How can businesses get started with Lex Digital Partners? Getting started with Lex Digital Partners is easy. Simply reach out to our team, and we'll schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and how we can help you achieve them.

[adagencyappplcombine]

Ephemeral Content: Unlocking the Magic of Short-Lived Ads

The Power of Ephemeral Content

In the digital world as fast as it is now, where attention spans are shortening while information left behind becomes a dominant force, ephemeral content grips are an intriguing drive. These small virtual ads are ephemeral in that they are here for some days and then disappear. They have a great role to play in advertising for the brand names. The probability is that you will get a belt and fly with us through this cosmic theater. All the while, the reflections on how to use it creatively will come one after another.

What Is Ephemeral Content?

Ephemeral content is like a firefly in the night—a brief, luminous spark that leaves an indelible impression. It encompasses various forms:

Stories: The beats of fleeting content are epitomized by stories on channels such as Snapchat, Instagram, and Facebook. These small stories tell my day-to-day experiences, which are just 24 hours of life, and take the users on a pleasure ride in one's life.

Live Streams: In Instagram Live, especially, Twitter does enjoy real bonding, leaving only ephemeral streams instead. The range of situations, from a product launch to viewer talk broadcast live, excite them so that their involvement is genuine.

Snippets and Teasers: This instant content, on the other hand, is similar to the trailer for your brand's cinematography. Suggestive glimpses and snapshots, subtle hints and teaser clips, and unexplained announcements all build up the mysterious suspense.

Why Should Brands Dive into the Ephemeral Pool?

Urgency and FOMO: Transientness content takes advantage of the lifestyle of short living. The garb of time drives users to step up the action at a time when people often think of procrastination and excuses to delay the task. FOMO(Fear Of Missing Out), the reflex of everyone, becomes the main cause of engagement—be it clicking on a link, getting a deal of a lifetime, or familiarizing yourself with a new collection of clothes.

Authenticity Reigns: Fugacity is somehow more real. Through behind-the-scenes moments that are natural and unscratched, audiences will be engaged in a different way. Realness helps or causes trust and faithfulness, which is an important aspect of a successful business.

Cost-Effective Creativity: Nowadays, the true meaning or message raised by the arts does not need to be done like a Hollywood movie production. I have a smartphone, creativity, and some randomness, and my company can make these moments special. This is not only shooting the film but also teaching people how to tell stories.

Where Can You Unleash Ephemeral Magic?

Snapchat: It is a novel way to communicate with friends and followers that is becoming increasingly popular among teens. Snapchat’s temporal snaps and open stories are settings where any creative can unleash their creativity. Filters, geotags, and doodles can be the identifying labels for your business.

Facebook Stories: Located above the stories of this social platform, Facebook Stories present a stream of publicity across platforms, which is enough to create a certain climate of interest and attract attention. Go with the visuals, or what you call a photograph, a video, or a sticker; you're the teller of the momentary story.

Instagram Stories: Instagram has the general idea of Snapchat’s concept. Heads up again, left swipe—here is the story for your brand’s posterity. Place polls, questions, and GIFs to engage. Create an interactive social media calendar for brands. Include posts for Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Conclusion

The fleeting nature of content doesn’t mean long-term holding; it’s more of a brief moment to touch someone’s life. It’s the brief grace note that rings in our consciousness forever, following the end of its reality. Have fun, by all means, roll with the impermanence, throw your story on stage, and witness your audience leaning in.

Your Ephemeral Odyssey Begins

Ready to ride the ephemeral wave? Here’s your mission:

Craft a Story: Share a day-in-the-life snippet or a cryptic clue.

Go Live: Host a Q&A session or a product reveal.

Play with Filters: Let your brand’s personality shine through.

Remember, impermanence can be your secret weapon. Now, go forth and create ephemeral magic!

For more marketing insights and cosmic revelations, Contact us Now!

[chaya-mga2022mi6021]

Answering Key Questions from the Brief

Before going through my ideas for the final project, I decided to answer these key questions from the brief to get a better idea.

1 - What do I want to do after completing the degree?

2 years ago if you had asked me this question, I would've said I want to work in the game design industry as a visual development artist. However, as time passed, and I got to connect with a few artists in the industry who do visual development, I realized that the role of a visual development artist extends beyond the confines of the game design industry. They do visual development for all kinds of things; like children's book illustrations, animation, and film production.

Initially, I wanted to be in the game design industry as a visual development artist solely because I was deeply fascinated by the industry and had a love for video games. But now I've realized it's not just the game industry that I'm passionate about, I also like book illustrations, animation, and a whole bunch of other things. I want to do everything. I feel like since I have knowledge in 2d, 3d, and mixed media now, visual development suits the set of skills I have.

So, if you were to ask me the same question today, my answer would be straightforward: I want to be a visual development artist.

First of all, what is a visual development artist?

A Visual Development Artist is a creative professional in the field of visual arts and entertainment, particularly within the animation, film, illustration, or video game industries. The primary role of a Visual Development Artist is to contribute to the visual storytelling and design aspects of a project, helping to establish the overall look, mood, and visual style.

Key responsibilities and tasks of a Visual Development Artist include concept art, color scripting, character design, environment design, visual style development, and working closely with directors.

so, this is what I want to do.

2 - What do I want to be known for?

One significant dream that has been a constant in my life is to inspire children to be as creatively expressive as they want. And one of my interests and passions lies in children's book illustration.

Ever since I was young, I've always been inspired by the timeless works of Janaki Sooriyarachchi and Sibil Weththasinghe and the impact their stories and illustrations had on my childhood. This inspiration has driven me to create illustrated storybooks for the modern generation of kids.

I've noticed a gap in the local space for iconic children's book authors since the era of Janaki Sooriyarachchi and Sibil Weththasinghe, and I aspire to fill that void. My intention is not to surpass anyone; rather, I aim to contribute to this space as someone from the current generation and be a part of the legacy of amazing creators like Janaki Sooriyarachchi and Sibil Weththasinghe. I want to bring my unique perspective and creativity and inspire children.

I want to create narratives and illustrations that not only captivate today's children but also share an important message and leave a lasting legacy, remembered by generations to come.

In essence, I aspire to be known as a storyteller and illustrator who brought back the magic of illustrated children's books and made a positive impact on the imaginative worlds of countless children:)

3 - What ideas have I been yearning to bring into the world?

I want to create something that's not only fun but also carries a deeper message, and I think it's crucial to present these ideas in a way that also makes sense to kids. Making complex concepts easy for them to understand is a big part of what I want to bring to the world.

So, it won't be just about providing entertainment but also about instilling values, sparking curiosity, and inspiring creativity.

4 - What am I good at? What are my strong suits?

I'd say I'm comfortable with both digital and traditional art. When it comes to digital art, I lean more towards 2D work, where I enjoy painting environments, props, lighting, and setting the mood for a scene. And when it comes to traditional art or mixed media, I'd say my go-to strengths are watercolor painting and drawing with ink pen.

So, for my final major project, I'm thinking of combining both digital and traditional/mixed media aspects to showcase the range of skills I've picked up along my creative journey. I want the project to showcase all of the techniques and styles that I enjoy working with.

5 - What are my weaknesses?

One area where I recognize I have room for improvement is animation. I find that my comfort zone in animation lies more in handling elements like 2D special effects, where the movements don't necessarily adhere to a strict anatomical structure. For instance, animating something abstract like a swirling ring of water feels intuitive and enjoyable for me. However, I do recognize my challenge when it comes to animating subjects with clear anatomical features and specific, set movements, such as a human figure. It's an area where I find myself less at ease and where I see room for improvement and focused practice.

6 - What am I the most passionate about?

What I'm really passionate about is painting environments, especially when I get to dive into different lighting setups and moods.

I also love telling stories through illustrations and capturing moments and emotions in a way that speaks to people.

After last year's mixed media module, I realized that I'm also passionate about experimenting with different art mediums and techniques. It keeps things interesting and gives me a chance to look away from the screen and touch paper once in a while, which is nice.

7 - What kind of project would help me to demonstrate all of the skills I've learned so far?

Definitely a project with a mix of all digital art, traditional art, and mixed media– a bit of everything. Preferably an animation for a younger audience. I'd love to create something that's not just entertaining but also carries a deep message, simplified in a way that clicks with kids and makes it easy for them to grasp important ideas.

[ffcarlos-grad604]

[Draft] Essay - Section 3: The Creative, Positioning the Researcher

Instructions

This is where you will introduce yourself as a creative maker, thinker and research. Defining in 3-4 points:

The key values and ideas that underpin your practice;

The conventions, media and processes that you gravitate towards;

The key methods and tools you use to undertake research, locate ideas and context, to find a topic, subject matter and themes;

Share your point of view about the role and importance of design. This could be for a specific social or cultural impact, audience or cause, sustainability, gender issues, equality etc;

--

My practice is rooted in certain key values and ideas that drive my work, informed by my experiences and aspirations. My multidisciplinary approach includes communication and interaction  with themes in music, faith, and social good. The wide range of topics and themes enriches my creative process.

As for media and processes, I lean predominantly towards digital tools and platforms. Graphic design finds its home in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign. For interaction design, I utilise Miro and Figma to craft intuitive and user-centric digital experiences.

Research is always a crucial aspect of the creative process. The vast landscape of the internet holds a massive trove of information and inspiration. However, actively engaging with the stakeholders and audience to really understand their needs, preferences, and pain points is paramount in creating resonant solutions as well. Collaboration and open communication are valued and essential processes to ensure the success of projects.

My view on design is that it is a means of fostering impact and encouraging positive change. Whether it's through creating engaging visuals for the church community, designing campaigns for social good, or enhancing user experiences, design can be a tool for communication, education, and transformation.

--

Other Paragraphs I've Written

An essential dimension to “The Creative” I’m integrating is my faith. My family comes from a Roman Catholic background, and while I’ve always identified as a Catholic, my connection to it has deepened recently. This year, I started attending my local parish, and contributing to the ministry by playing piano with the choir at masses.

Alongside doing creating branding and promotional material for church, I aspire to leverage graphic design to nurture my relationship with Christ as my journey in faith is very personal. While I haven’t undertaken any creative projects tied to Christianity due to my short time of involvement with the church, I’m considering how having some sort of journal/diary could  be a valuable tool to harmonise my path in faith with my interest for publication/editorial design.

A faith journal or diary would serve as a personal space where I synthesis and articulate my thoughts, relections, prayers, experiences, scriptural and quote collections, regarding spirituality expressed in creative ways. It could include illustrations, typography, and other visual aids thoughtfully laid out. I aim to create a free and comfortable space for self-discovery, so I will personalize it to align with my needs and preferences, yet also design it to be engaging and aesthetically pleasing.

The Holy Bible is a historical and spiritual artefact, officially compiled in the late fourth century, and the best-selling book in the world with hundres of millions of copies printed over the past 1500 years (History.com Editors, 2018). The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) is a reference work summarising the fundamental doctrines of the Catholic Church, often used as a teaching tool (Hopkins, 2023). But at a glance, the Bible and the CCC seem like plain and dense volumes, hundreds of pages long, and jam packed with text.

Both of these essential books offer a parallel to my interest in publication and editorial design. I’ve often felt frustated at the challenge of comprehending theological concepts.

I could create storytelling elements comprising of typographic designs, symbolic illustrations and capture the essence of the biblical narratives. These preserved centuries of wisdom and inspired writings can engage viewers with spiritual depth.

--

Aside from design, my other talent and passion lies in music and I play the piano and viola. From being a part of a world premiere production with New Zealand Opera, to accompanying singers, and teaching kids; my musical journey has enriched my personal growth.

My journey began when I was 8 years old. Over the years, this passion has helped me grow so much as a person. Through countless practice sessions, lessons, and rehearsals, I have been taught discipline, patience and perseverance. Through my effort and commitment, I have been rewarded with many accomplishments and awards. Music has been a big part of my life and will continue to be.

Almost everyone is familiar with music and has been exposed to various genres, but many fail to fully grasp the significance and influence it holds in our daily existence. Music serves not only as a form of artistic expression and entertainment, but also possesses the potential to be therapeutic and beneficial to our mental and physical well-being.

I would be open to designing for CD’s, album covers, posters advertisements for concerts and festivals. Additionally, I would like to do work that engages and inspires the newer generations in music education and provide the opportunity for them to explore it.

--

Design is integrated in every part of this world, from the products, services, and spaces we work, move, and live in. Design is not merely about aesthetics but also about innovating, inspiring, and offering solutions that will impact lives.

Alongside graphic design, I would like to pursue a career in the User Experience (UX), or Customer Experience (CX) design industry. In my Interaction Design Studio class last semester, I chose to redesign Webjet’s website focusing on the flight booking section.

I conducted user research such as surveys and user testing to identify problems, limitations and weaknesses of the Webjet website as well as competitor analysis research and critically examining, and comparing similar websites.

Using wireframing and prototyping in Figma, I employed a design system with typography, colour, icons, grid and components. I improved the design’s consistency and cohesiveness so that users could build the most streamline travel journey.

This project made me realise that I enjoy working on designs that improve customers’ interactions and therefore, I want to do this type of work in the future. I want to positively influence consumer’s experiences with products, services, and systems in a way that is intuitive, smooth, and pleasant.

-

Social good is a theme that will come up more frequently in my design practice as I have acquired two internships for the upcoming summer. One of them is at Good Health Design, a transdisciplinary design and research studio based in AUT’s School of Art and Design. The other is at Waiheke Resources Trust, a professional non-profit organisation the promotes sustainability and environmental responsibility on Waiheke Island (Waiheke Resources Trust, n.d.)

During the mid-term break this semester, I was diagnosed with pneumonia and admitted to the ICU with a life-threatening complication at Middlemore Hospital. This unexpected hiatus caused me to take few weeks off to recover, and revaluate my priorities in my life. This disruption and challenging ordeal has sparked an interest in design in the healthcare sector.

I look forward to my 2023/2024 summer internship at Good Health Design. I’m excited about the prospect of collaborating with clinical experts, healthcare professionals, and researchers from different fields to empower, enhance and enrich the communities and the healthcare experience of individuals. This isn’t limited to the medical needs, but also the emotional, psychological and social aspects of health (Good Health Design, n.d.).

[researchdocumentationdump]

A Rather Decent While Later....

The Media Outputs I'm Leaning towards.

Photography

i'd then like at least one of my media outputs to really pull an artistic approach to awareness of coeliac backing the podcast with either photography, painting or a short film. To creatively display the feelings that living alongside coeliac can create. This will involve looking into feelings both physical and emotions and how those feelings have been visually displayed by other artists, not necessarily around coeliac in specific but then I can see how certain feelings can be displayed visually. The elements of photography can be used to tell a story and that story can be used to convey a message. consumers of information are visual and therefore having images to grab there attention can be a good way of passing on information and/or awareness.

Images I like that I feel speak to their audience interns of their emotion and thought provoking nature

Edvard Munch

Erwin Olaf 

Lee Howell

not to degrade myself but I'm not the best at photography. I think there is lots of room for improvement in the field of art involving cameras. I do, however, thoroughly enjoy catching moments and the aspect of comprising images to make them meaningful is even more appealing! so I'm going to start here.

In the 3rd class lecture we touch on digital photography and there was something mentioned that really resonated with me and that was the fact that photos and images in general and very accessible and easy to consume, as it it takes less time to take in the information displayed in a photograph than it is to say read an article, unsaying this, that isn't necessarily true for all photos but in a generalisation it is.

Despite my topic of Coeliac Disease, I found a cool journal entry that talks about the power of photography I raising awareness. the page only talks in terms of environmental issues but I felt there was some all rounding truths that can be apply to raising awareness in any situation.

Photography has the power to change peoples’ hearts, minds, and actions. Newspapers can write about environmental issues all day, but unless there’s photo evidence, many readers will just continue on with their day - maybe taking with them some ‘gee-whiz’ facts. 

Powerful photos, however, can inspire people stop, take notice, and (maybe) take action.

Photos transform abstract ideas into concrete reality, and provide undeniable proof of change, destruction and abuse. This is why photography is one of the most powerful tools for raising awareness of climate change and environmental/wildlife issues.

- Christopher Davila 

A passage I got from another online article,

It is understood that photography can help to create social change, or at least to help it happen slightly faster. Just by being able to take a picture and immortalize a moment that reflects a position on a subject or a concern – and its consequent publication in the appropriate medium – is perhaps one of the most effective ways to achieve this state.

I really enjoyed reading this article because it talked lightly on the ins and outs of using photography as a tool in raising awareness, as well what that might look like and that you don't need to be a professional photographer to do this effectively.

I aim to raise awareness of coeliac disease and promote better understanding of its impact by creating a visually engaging representation through photography. I hope to encourage viewers to connect with and experience ideas around coeliac in a unique and visceral way. It's more than an allergy but doesn't necessarily require segregating those who suffer from it, from our social customs. I also want to emphasize that everyone's experience with coeliac is different. I plan to use semiotics to communicate through an awareness campaign poster or creative photography portfolio, with the goal of making it impactful enough to be used beyond this assignment and university setting, potentially becoming a part of coeliac awareness campaigns in the future.

there is many roads I could approach this topic but ill do more research to try and find which road or which part of having coeliac dieseas I want to raise awareness for... for example, if I want to raise awareness on coeliac to help people understand as so they stop saying things like "can you eat potatoes" or "a little bit won't hurt" then I will want to maybe outline what gluten actually is... and the what coeliac actually is and how an autoimmune disorder is just a bit different from an allergy or a intolerance.

Maybe my awareness will take the root of highlighting the symptoms that can happen or the physical mental consequences if someone who has coeliac eats gluten.

Its funny actually because I recently meet this amazing person! and they have been diagnosed with coeliac however, all their doctor did was give them some pamphlets and say..."don't eat gluten and you'll be alright" and they didn't actually find out a lot of the stuff about what they were diagnosed with.

I have to remember that this is a touchy subject for some people so I have to approach it with the greatest amount of empathy and compassion as everyone has different thoughts on their own coeliac journey and it is a matter of finding the right part to raise awareness on that won be upsetting but more lighthearted in a way. "By the way guys... coeliacs a thing.."

At this point my specific aim is still a bit fluffy but I do feel I'm narrowing it down slowly and I believe that this will come with time and more research and talking to more people with coeliac to understand it better and which approach will be the most beneficial.

Below is a small first step brainstorm I made after a small about of researching. It was to hopefully trigger more ideas for me later on in my media research.

[therentyoupay]

CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION from your lovely lovely tags!! @thelovelybitten

#WOW my brain exploded #you see I look at them in depth but this makes so so so much sense #it’s always how do they make each other better that I can never get a grasp on. #and especially looking at this now: I never even considered speech patterns in terms of emotion #like when elsa is upset for example—since she is emotionally anxious how would a (normal? stereotypical.) person respond to these emotions #plus how do you morph the societal normalcy of emotional perception into elsa that makes sense— #at least for her character that feels natural ??? #god ur mind#me sitting here on my phone writing down things I’ll need to explore before doing simple sprints #thank god I’m going to be an English major this might help me with my summer project LMFAO #this was eye opening OP just knows what’s up #MOVING ON LMFAO

SPEECH PATTERNS, SPEECH PATTERNS.

YESSS. 🔥🔥🔥

while i think we all to some degree can recognize that specific speech patterns, dialects, idiosyncracies, word choice, and quirks, etc., etc., are connected to the ways in which we present ourselves (and by extension, how we showcase different aspects of our identities with other people), i think the most formative experiences for me in really digging into this idea were my forays into EPISTOLARY writing:

questionable ; 

by therentyoupay for seevikiifangirl Fandoms: Harry Potter - J. K. Rowling  (Teen And Up Audiences) 2 Oct 2016 | Hermione/fred, epistolary, accidental pen pals

check the pipes for frost ; 

by therentyoupay Fandoms: Frozen (2013), Rise of the Guardians (2012) (Mature) 18 May 2015 | Jelsa, epistolary, accidental pen pals

before writing these fics, i had played around characters texting each other (e.g., korra and tahno in personal record), but check the pipes for frost was totally exploratory and super transformative for me when it came to really leaning into improving my dialogue-only interactions.

the really cool part of writing ctpff was playing with two layers:

PLATFORMS AS (a) CHARACTERIZATION DEVICES AND (b) CONTEXTS/RULE-DRIVEN PLAYGROUNDS:

first,

jack and elsa's communications take place across multiple platforms. the progression of their burgeoning friendship (and, later, more 👀) is shown first and foremost in the progression of the media they use to actually communicate, which

(a) acts as a narrative device to indicate their growing fluctuating trust levels with one another (accidental postcards → emails → g-chats → facebook → selfies → skype → texting | can you tell that this fic is now a time capsule lmao), and

(2) provides the unique context-specific rules for how they can interact, namely, all of the specific features of digital communication therein, including but not limited to:

the nonverbal cues that are and are not possible with these platform choices (e.g., jack's emoji style is different from elsa's; what happens when elsa uses an emoji in a marked or notable way and how does jack react? 😂);

what kinds of email addresses do they use? (my favorite part is jack dragging bunny for still using hotmail in 2016)

what kinds of phones do they have? (for me elsa has always been iPhone and jack has always been Droid; this affects the way messages are presented and arranged on the screen)

what are their email signatures like? (fun fact: i copy/pasted a real disclaimer end note from my actual dentist for toothiana's professional email, which jack emails by accident lmao)

the immediacy or delay in replying in any of these modes;

the cultural connotations of taking a long time to reply or double-texting or Suddenly Using Punctuation to Indicate that This is A Serious Conversation, or using capital letters to indicate A Thing;

typos;

are they able (or willing) to send photos? gifs? memes? what do these things reveal about their comfort levels, confidence levels, trust levels, senses of humor?

what does someone share about themselves when they send a meme, and what do they expect from their recipient when they share this inside joke, or shared scrap of humor with the other?

WHAT DOES CAPSLOCK MEAN? who uses it? when?

can multiple threads of conversation occur simultaneously (e.g., direct messages/texts) in ways that are not possible in face-to-face conversations?

how do they react to a suggestive freudian slip of a typo?

what does miscommunication look like?

i could go on forever!

p.s. for those of you have read the story and you remember The Letter, well. 💕 YOU KNOW.

second,

within the contexts, constraints, and flexibilities afforded by these various media platforms, i also played with the following:

how do they write to one another when they are strangers who got each other's addresses by accident?

how do they write to one another when they're seriously contemplating the pros and cons of potentially trying to meet each other in person?

how do you convey degrees of distance/closeness at the word-, sentence, message-, and conversation-levels?

what happens to their typing when they are in the middle of a high-stakes argument?

how do they apologize when the other person cannot see their face?

what kinds of inside jokes can they create in texting or messages or emails that are easier to convey in writing than in speaking verbally in person?

what would they attach or include in their emails?

what would they do/say the first time they opened up skype for the first time to finally talk to one another in real-time?

what kind of conversations can they have (and what kind of turn-taking can they have) when they are writing long-form letters or emails asynchronously vs. synchronously in real-time through instant messaging or texting?

how do they sound if they accidentally send each other a message that was meant for someone else?

And then, of course, you get into the other factors that can influence speech patterns on a more foundational level (e.g., background, education, personality, manners) and...

a more temporary, local level (e.g., mood, comfort level, time of day. 😂 social battery. patience level.). and so on!!

the fic is here, if anyone wants to check it out: check the pipes for frost

TL;DR → if you want to really explore and play around with dialogue and speech patterns as characterization devices, i highly highly recommend trying out some EPISTOLARY works!!!! 💕 have fun!!

TRYP thoughts on characterization

jack frost // elsa | characterization considerations

PART 2 | OVERVIEW: the tl;dr of personality + dialogue choices

ground rules + intro

overview: the tl;dr of my personality + dialogue choices

deep dive: characterization, personality, + identity

shared ice powers (or AU-equivalent) + shared connections

questions/points to consider as you write

PART 2 | OVERVIEW: the tl;dr of personality + dialogue choices

(this was written super fast so tell me if i missed stuff)

for elsa, i look to create and explore moments that highlight her journey from fear to self-acceptance. i focus on her struggles with control, her deep sense of responsibility, and her moments of quiet reflection (or LOUD, powerful, FREEDOM). when writing her personality, i try to capture the sometimes contradictory variables of her reserved nature, her inner strength, her desire for freedom, and the way she often internalizes (suppresses, ignores, fights, hides) her emotions. i also pay attention to how she interacts with others, particularly the contrast between her public demeanor and the more intimate, personal side that she rarely shows. 

in terms of register, she adopts a more formal tone, more precise diction, slightly more advanced vocabulary. readers have described my elsa as generally varying degrees of:

“regal,”

“proper,”

“classy,”

“measured,”

“analytical,”

“thoughtful,”

“astute,”

“clever,”

“intelligent,”

“responsible,”

“introspective,”

“dignified,”

“determined,”

“guarded,”

“reserved,”

“funny,” and

“(deeply) passionate,”

although to suggest that she’s only those things would be to do her a disservice (we are all messy, sometimes!),

so it’s all about balance and context. (re: passionate: please remember that there is a physical and metaphorical storm inside of her. <3 )

for jack, i’m drawn to the contrast between his outwardly playful, carefree persona (his center, rooted in his pain and his inherent optimism and resilience born from trauma and perseverance and survival) and the deeper, more complex emotions he hides (ignores, neglects, doesn’t understand) beneath the surface. i look to emphasize moments that show his loneliness, his sense of duty (especially when it ties to his need to belong, to be loved or WORTHY of being loved, his feeling that if he does not do something for someone/if he is not useful then he will be abandoned), and the way he uses humor to create light, deflect from his pain, bring joy to others, and cope with what he’s lost. when writing his dialogue, i focus on capturing his wit, his tendency to tease, and the occasional glimpses of his more serious, reflective side. i also think about how his interactions with elsa differ from his interactions with others, showing the unique bond they share. 

when i write jack, it’s not as punny as chat from miraculous ladybug… i love it when his humor (and elsa’s!) is sharp and clever and fast. i love when he uses self-deprecating humor (but it’s usually layered; he’s saying it lightly but he means it heavily, and the humor and dry tone and the carefree word choice has a lot about ‘hiding in plain sight’, sometimes, i think). readers have described my vision of jack as,

“playful,”

“protective,”

“witty,”

“optimistic,”

“clever,”

“insecure,”

“smitten,”

“hilarious,”

“tender,”

“supportive,”

“impatient,”

“selfish(/selfless, depending),”

occasionally “possessive” (especially re: fear of abandonment/rejection/loss),

“covetous,”

“jealous,” “envious,”

“tenacious,” and,

in his own way, “guarded,” too.

in their dialogue, i aim for a mix of lightness and depth. jack might generally bring a playful tone to the conversation, but elsa can absolutely be light and playful, too, depeneding on where they are at in their journeys. 

elsa’s responses are often measured, thoughtful, and occasionally tinged with uncertainty or hesitation, reflecting her internal struggles and her cautious approach to new emotions. the dialogue between them often becomes a dance of words, where what’s left unsaid is just as important as what is spoken.

both of them speak highly respectfully to one another but (we are all human) can also occasionally lash out; one of the natural byproducts of getting to know someone so well is that you also create an arsenal of all the most effective ways to (intentionally, or perhaps not) hurt them. 

(at the center readers…. you know. 🥹  please please please no spoilers. 💕🙏)

OVERALL, THEIR DYNAMIC (DEPENDING ON ANGST/WHUMP/FLUFF/DRAMA LEVELS):

what fascinates me most about elsa and jack is the way they mirror each other. 

ISOLATION: both of them are, in their own ways, defined by isolation—elsa by her fear of hurting others, and jack by his literal invisibility to the world. 

IT IS ABOUT THE YEARNING: they both yearn for connection, for someone who sees them for who they truly are, yet they’re afraid of the vulnerability that comes with that. in my mind, their interactions are usually charged with this tension, a push and pull between wanting to get closer and fearing the consequences of doing so.

WHAT IS LEFT UNSPOKEN (UNTIL IT IS NOT 👀): when i write them together, i’m constantly aware of the unspoken emotions that simmer beneath the surface—the trust that’s slowly building, the attraction that both excites and terrifies them, and the fear of what it would mean to truly let someone in. there’s a kind of quiet longing in their relationship, a recognition of kindred spirits who have found each other in the midst of chaos. (pining. SO MUCH PINING.)

JOURNEYS: elsa’s journey is one of self-discovery, of learning to embrace her powers and her emotions rather than fear them. jack’s journey is about finding his place in a world that has long forgotten him, about understanding that he’s worthy of love and connection—and not just for the contributions that he makes to the Guardians, to the world, to the children, to nature. Just him. 

GROWTH: together, they challenge each other, push each other to grow, and in doing so, they start to heal the wounds that have defined them for so long. (well. at least when things go well. 👀 I HAVE ALSO BEEN KNOWN TO DABBLE IN ANGST.)

MUTUAL DEPENDENCE AND TRUST: both characters are strong (physically mentally emotionally) (and weak) in their own right, but they eventually come to realize that they are stronger together.

DEFINED BY SACRIFICES (*coughSISTERScough*): sacrifice is a recurring theme in their individual journeys and their burgeoning relationship (in any universe). both elsa and jack are a times willing to sacrifice their own well-being for the other—sometimes to their own detriment. jack’s determination to keep elsa safe, even at the cost of his own life/happiness/feelings, and elsa’s willingness to push herself beyond her limits to protect jack/keep jack/keep jack but also keep him away. however, this selflessness also creates a barrier between them, as they are both reluctant to fully admit their feelings (are afraid of being selfish, or of being perceived as selfish), fearing that doing so would be a distraction from their mission/duties/responsibilities, or a weakness they cannot afford (UNTIL THEY CAVE AND THE TENSION BREAKS AND THEY GIVE IN AT LONG LAST).

tl;dr

elsa and jack are two deeply complex characters, each carrying the weight of their pasts, their powers, and their responsibilities. their relationship is marked by a delicate balance of strength and vulnerability, trust and fear, duty and desire. 

as they navigate the dangers (emotional, physical) around them, they also grapple with their growing feelings for one another, feelings that challenge their perceptions of themselves and their place in the world. 

together, they form a powerful yet fragile bond, one that is constantly tested by the forces, pressures, and expectations around them and their own internal struggles. 

i love writing this story in so many (33 and counting?? universes) because their story is one of mutual growth, as they each learn to embrace their vulnerabilities and find strength in their connection.

🥹💕🙏

[queeniegalore]

Our Dear Friend Jonathan - an Academic Analysis of Dracula Daily

I’ve had a little interest, so I'm posting the short project I did on DD for my Digital Humanities class at uni way back in June! A few caveats - this is technically an 'analysis of a digital artifact' and not an essay, so it's not hugely in depth, plus I was only given 1000 words (which i exceeded by quite a bit, whoops) so I didn't get to included nearly as much as I wanted to. Also tumblr only let me include 10 images, so I've cut out a few of the memes I'd used (it also erased my links but I have them all saved so I'll add them in list form if anyone wants me too). Finally, I've contacted all the artists included and obtained permission to post their (credited!) work! Enjoy!

Our Dear Friend Jonathan

Substack, Tumblr, and the Digital Intimacy of the World’s Biggest Book Club

By Rebecca F

Dracula Daily, created in 2021 by Matt Kirkland, is an astonishingly simple concept on the surface. Utilising the email subscription service Substack, Kirkland divides Bram Stoker’s 1847 epistolary novel into emails that are sent on the real-world date that corresponds with the in-fiction date of the events. Protagonist Jonathan Harker starts a travel diary detailing his trip to Transylvania on the 3rd of May, and the rest of the novel continues in journal entries, letters, newspaper clippings, and even a diary kept on phonograph, all dated, up until the final entry in November. Some entries are pages long, some only a few paragraphs, many days (almost two weeks in June) don’t have an entry at all. Every entry, however short, is emailed on the correct date, and unless the reader wants to go out and buy a copy of the book to ‘cheat’ and read ahead, that’s all they get. Interestingly, the book itself doesn’t present all of these entries chronologically – dates tend to skip back and forth. Reading via subscription, then, changes the fundamental experience of reading Dracula in more ways than one. In 2021 the mailing list slowly spread by word of mouth, and Kirkland ended up with 1600 subscribers. In 2022, after the idea went viral on popular internet social media sites Twitter and Tumblr, Dracula Daily has 200,000 subscribers – and climbing (Martinelli).

1. Image Header for the Dracula Daily subscription

How does reading Dracula via email change the experience of reading Dracula? For this analysis I’ll be dividing this question into two parts – firstly, the actual physical, practical and individual act of reading the novel via email and the way that effects the intended experience, and secondly, the wider, communal ‘book club’ aspect, which is the real reason Dracula Daily has gone so viral and become such an important moment in what I have coined digital intimacy.

2. Dr Seward by Tumblr user @crepuscol

Playing With Time

Dracula by Bram Stoker is a famously claustrophobic novel. The opening chapters with Jonathan Harker travelling to Count Dracula’s castle only to be held captive there lean on the sense of being trapped and confined with a monster – but these chapters are over in fifty or so pages, freeing the reader quite quickly and bringing a sense of relief before the slower build up to the main climax. Reading the book chronologically, however, changes all that. Having to wait for daily updates really intensifies the sense of time – we can feel how long Jonathan is trapped with the Count, and we can slowly see his mental state deteriorate. Occasionally, unlike in the novel as published, we escape the castle entirely, leaving him there alone, to read letters from his fiancée Mina, her friend Lucy Westenra and Lucy’s three suitors. These are amusing and engaging asides that nonetheless leave us screaming for the focus to return to our trapped protagonist. This builds a sense of intimacy, we’re now directly invested in Jonathan and every entry from him feels like a letter written personally to us. As Tumblr user @atundratoadstool puts it, “We all will–in fact–be skipping ahead some chapters in a few days to meet another narrator only to skip immediately back to catch up with our collective friend Jonathan Harker… You can’t have your dread or anticipation undercut by future events. Like all the characters you’re going to meet, you just have to wait for Dracula to act upon you,” (emphasis mine) (@atundratoadstool). Another user, @soup-is-here, describes it thus, “I think at this point the dread of Jonathan's isolation is so much worse than the idea of him actually being bitten, especially in this email format. It really demonstrates just how long the Count kept him there in a way sitting and reading the book wouldn't,” (@soup-is-here). So, we realise that the act of digitising this novel changes the nature of the novel.

In their essay “Universal Design and its Discontents,” Richard H Godden and Jonathan Hsy discuss the pervasive nostalgia that sometime overtakes discussions about digital culture, quoting Adam Kirsch who asks, “Is it actually true that reading online is an adequate substitute for reading on paper? If not, perhaps we should not be concentrating on digitizing our books but on preserving and circulating them more effectively,” (Godden and Hsy). One can’t help but wonder what traditionalists like this must think of a project like Dracula Daily, which seems to embody everything they despise about the digital humanities – and one could also feel a level of frustration that they would miss or dismiss the excitement that these readers are experience in discovering a new way of reading and meaningfully engaging with an old text.  

3. Dracula going out in his lizard fashion by Tumblr user @horseboneologist

4. Jonathan Harker and Count Dracula by Tumblr user @nehezt

Digital Intimacy

Dracula Daily, as a movement rather than the literal subscription, really came to life on Tumblr. A quick browse through the Dracula Daily tag will show up thousands of posts, a combination of art, memes, discussion and – perhaps surprisingly – serious and thoughtful analysis, all with anywhere from dozens to thousands of interactions. At one point, Dracula Daily trended on Tumblr above popular Marvel Cinematic Universe release, the Eurovision song contest and hotly anticipated Dr Who casting news (Kuppermann).

Marketed as a youth pop culture microblogging site and having somewhat of a reputation for frivolity, one could be excused for being baffled that a 125-year-old piece of classical literature has gathered such a huge and devoted following. But it seems that the digital intimacy the subscription forges between the readers of Dracula and its characters also translates to the readers of Dracula and each other. In short, the act of reading the novel all together, one tantalising piece at a time, has created an exclusive 200,000-member strong book club, and in order to be part of it – to enjoy the in-jokes, to get the memes, to contribute to the meta – one has to keep up with the story.

Every day when the email arrives – the same time for everyone across the world – the Dracula Daily tag becomes flooded with people sharing their thoughts on the latest entry, replying to and reposting each other’s posts, adding to the discussion, arguing, analysing, and joking. This demonstrates a remarkable collective level of reading comprehension and critical thinking skills, as readers mine every sentence of the daily entry for material. There are blogs now to keep track of the different posts, one, who responded to my request for help in putting this project, has entries archived meticulously with tags like “memes,” “reference,” “serialisation,” and “analysis” (@draculadailytracker). And while the Tumblr denizens do tend to run with jokes like Jonathan Harker’s preoccupation with paprika, there is a surprising amount of intelligent literary discourse. An example of this is that when Jonathan writes an entry about the "g*psies" who show up at the castle, a number of posts sprang up acknowledging and discussing the racism, Orientalism, imperialism and anti-Romani sentiments that are embedded through the novel. There have also been mature discussions about the sexual politics of the book, as well as the homoeroticism and queer themes. The literary establishment has tended throughout the years to be overwhelmingly white and male, this is an excellent demonstration of the ways the digital humanities can work towards democratising and opening up these discussions.

 In her essay “Whither the DH?” Lee Skallerup Bessette talks about the way Digital Humanities – in an academic sense – can help foster communities amongst disparate groups of people, she even likens it to the practice of letter writing between artists and intellectuals in years past (Bessette). This Tumblr phenomenon is an unusual demonstration of this, and all the more fascinating because it is entirely organic and without an official organising body. The only thing that holds Dracula Daily together is the daily email. There isn’t a real club, there aren’t prompts, there’s no incentive to join in. The material itself isn’t even new – it is merely presented in a new way. “When asked, Kirkland can only guess why people have been fascinated by the project,” writes Jacob Kupperman. “He proposes that the “gap between ‘vampire cliche’ and ‘actual Dracula’” driven by Dracula’s long cultural legacy may play a role, as well as the communal nature of reading the text via newsletter,” (Kuppermann). Or as a tumblr reader says, “not only is it free and making the novel available to just anyone who has an email, which is by far the most integral and necessary aspect of subscribing or interacting with anything these days in a formal way, but it's introducing this story in an ingenious, new format that gets the readers to interact with it not as a novel but as if, our dear Jonathan Harker, is emailing us personally,” (xmichaelmyers).

Ultimately, it remains to be seen whether Dracula Daily will survive the June posting drought, or make it to the end of its run with anywhere near the same amount of hype and engagement it received in its first month. But this phenomenon is a remarkable achievement in dh – it’s organic, it’s grass roots, and an excellent example of how literature can be reimagined through technology. As we collectively await updates from our dear friend Jonathan, we’re doing it together, intimately engaged, in the world’s biggest and most active book club.

Works Cited

atundratoadstool. Where Wild Flowers Grow of Their Own Accord. 7 May 2022. 10 June 2022. <https://www.tumblr.com/blog/view/atundratoadstool/683528925666770944?source=share>.

Bessette, Lee Skallerup. "W(h)ither DH? New Tensions, Directions and Evolutions in Digital Humnities." Kim, Dorothy and Jesse Stommel. Disrupting the Digital Humanities. Brooklyn: Punctum, 2018. 419-454.

draculadailytracker. Tumblr Book Club. 10 June 2022. 10 June 2022. <https://draculadailytracker.tumblr.com/>.

Godden, Richard H and Jonathan Hsy. "Universal Design and Its Discontents." Kim, Dorothy and Jesse Stommel. Disrupting the Digital Humanities. Brooklyn: Punctum Books, 2018. 91-116.

Kuppermann, Jacob. "Dracula in Real Time." Long Now 19 May 2022. <https://longnow.org/ideas/02022/05/19/dracula-in-real-time/>.

Martinelli, Marissa. "Why Hundreds of Thousands of People Are Reading Dracula Together Right Now." Slate 17 May 2022. Website. <https://slate.com/culture/2022/05/dracula-daily-bram-stoker-book-newsletter-jonathan-harker.html>.

soup-is-here. Absolute Unit. 31 May 2022. 10 June 2022. <https://www.tumblr.com/blog/view/atundratoadstool/683528925666770944?source=share>.

xmichaelmyers. The Wolf's Den. 05 May 2022. 10 June 2022. <https://www.tumblr.com/blog/view/xmichaelmyers/683421341500751872?source=share>.

5. The Three Suitors by Tumblr user @marghen