#ideally I’d paint first but I do not want paint fumes in the house right now

[fruitless-vain]

Most of the wall panels going up today? Maybe??

[justkeeptrekkin]

Present Mic’s speaker: a shitty tutorial

So this bitch finally finished her Present Mic cosplay for London ComicCon next weekend!! I thought I’d make a tutorial post for the speaker system- it’s a rough guide, and includes the mistakes I made so you don’t make the same!

Read below for the full tutorial! 

STAGE ONE: Plan 

So the first thing i did was that i purchased all the required components. I used foam for this- I couldn’t find any craft foam near me so i bought a foam/roll up camping matt for like £3.99 which was a massive bargain and seriously did the job. Here’s a list of what I used.

Foam

Silver spray paint

Glue/lacquer for making it shine/metallic (I used Mod Podge)

a neck rest- the type you’d have on a plane. I got mine for £1 at Poundland. (Dollar store for my American friends!)

Super glue (the kind that works with fabric!)

Paper and pencil

Ruler

Scissors. A good ol’ big pair, not nail scissors. 

gold and silver marker pens

A mask, or just something to cover your mouth when you’re spray painting 

Optional (It does make life easier to use):

Cutting knife

Cutting mat

Screws- if you have any hanging around the house in a random drawer. In my case i had lots left over from the studs I used on the jacket. It just makes it look more real!

Once purchased, I started out by taking some A3 paper and doing a rough outline of the neck rest. See the end of this tutorial to see the mistakes I made and how I could have improved this part. I made the width of the top section slightly slimmer than the actual neck rest, because I didn’t want foam to be stabbing me chin. That defeats the point of the neck rest, which is to help with the comfort of this bastard as well as being able to clip it on at the back.

I ended up with three pieces of paper. The top, the little square at the front, and the side panel (which is the same for both sides, so I just cut one template.) 

I didn’t make a bottom to the speaker, ‘cause no one’s going to see that bit anyway. No point. 

Stage 2: Cut the foam using the paper templates

In case you’re wondering why I’ve blocked out bits, it’s because I put down paper underneath to stop it from gluing to the table- the paper came from an underwear brochure and I didn’t want tumblr nuking me for the half naked ladies sajkdlajgkd

ANYWAY So I used the templates to draw an outline and cut the foam. It’s... not actually easy to cut this foam with scissors OR a proper craft cutting knife. It leaves little messy bits. But it turned out alright I think. You guys might be tidier than me. 

I then superglued the shit out of it, sticking the panels together as you can see. I glued the side panel to the bottom of the top one, rather than the side. (If that makes sense). It ended up so that the edge of the foam shows on the side rather than the top. Choice is yours. But if you do it that way, remember that you’re adding about an inch to the height of the speaker. If you stick it the other way, you add to the width on the front. 

Shit it’s hard to explain this lmao

So with this supergluing, the glue dries QUICKLY so try and be sharpish. Hold it in place for about 30 seconds and you have yourself a winner.

Step 3: add the details

Check out my cupcake slippers in the background

So i added the details here, trying to emulate the speaker bits on the side- they’re actually concave in Mic’s costume in the show, rather than poking out- but i wouldn’t even attempt to scoop out foam. It would be so messy. So I improvised.

The reason the front looks messy is because I accidentally glued the square and the circle on the front the wrong way around. i could have left it, I’m sure, but I’m a fussy bitch so i tore them off and swapped them, gluing them down again. To be fair, if you make mistakes like that, you can fill in the tears/holes with the lacquer glue at the end to smooth out. 

Step 4: spray that shit

IMPORTANT- DO THIS OUTSIDE. You want ventilation so you don’t nuke your apartment with fumes, your flatmates and landlord won’t like you if you do. I did this in a carpark with people staring at my nerdy ass

I used silver spray paint from Poundland- actually, car spray paint. I thought, hey, I’m making a metal speaker- sounds ideal. 

I didn’t use a mask here, but i covered my nose and mouth with a scarf and I’m not dead. Definitely cover your face with something when doing this, though. This stuff is really horrible.

Leave it to dry for as long as you can- It was windy outside which made this whole process HILARIOUS I was chasing after it now and then as it flew away, determined to find freedom. But I let it dry in my basement because I’m lucky enough to have one. I’d recommend your bathroom, otherwise.

I then finished off by adding little gold bits- just to make some of it stand out. Do what you like with this, but I just added it round the edge of the side speakers, drew some of the mesh on the front speaker- a cross-hatch effect- and whatever I thought needed it, really. You can tell I’m not a perfectionist 

I also added some of the screws at this point- just. stuck ‘em right in here and there.

Step 5: Glaze it like a cake baby

If you wanna make that shit shiny like metal- and importantly NOT SMELL LIKE SHIT, because spray paint smells so bad holy fuck- you need to seal it in.

Everyone online recommended Mod Podge Gloss-lustre-lustre and it was amazing. I got the pot of it which required a paintbrush. You can get a spray version too, which I think I should have done to be honest. It would have left a much more even finish without streak marks.

It takes a while to dry, so wait a few hours at least before doing the next layer. Keep on layering that shit till it shines, I did 4 I think.

Step uhhhhh 6: stick on the neck rest

YOU’RE SO CLOSE MATE! All you need to do is add the neck rest. I superglued which works a treat. As you can see, I’ve got a safety pin there, so i can pin it at the back and it’ll stay around my neck, all comfy like.

Problem is, as you’ll see below, this is when i realised that it’s TOO BIG to fit under my jacket and it poked out all unattractively. 

Final step 7: trim and amend

I amended by cutting off the pokey-out bits at the back, and just. made it fit better and tuck in more. Essentially, I should have drawn my paper plan to the shape of the neck rest when it was pinned, like below. I used the trimmings to cut down, amend and stick to the speaker system. 

Then I tried it on again, and it fit like a glove!

Below is the finished product- i hope you guys think it looks as good as I think it does, I’m SUPER PROUD of myself. I also hope you manage to learn something from this, including my mistakes!

Thanks everyone! <3

[vertiny-main]

100 Asks.

The lovely @yep-too-gone-already requested all 100, so here you go dear

·         1. What is your middle name? Kym.

·         2. How old are you? 17.

·         3. What is your birthday? 15/01/2000.

·         4. What is your zodiac sign? Capricorn.

·         5. What is your favourite colour? Red.

·         6. What's your lucky number? 15.

·         7. Do you have any pets? Yes, two dogs and two cats.

·         8. Where are you from? Australia.

·         9. How tall are you? 5’9.

·         10. What shoe size are you? I can’t remember and my tag on the shoes have worn off.

·         11. How many pairs of shoes do you own? 1.

·         12. What was your last dream about? Meeting the peeps from Discord.

·         13. What talents do you have? I’m double jointed in my fingers.

·         14. Are you psychic in any way? Nope.

·         15. Favorite song? I’ll Be Good by Jaymes Young.

·         16. Favorite movie? The Aristocats.

·         17. Who would be your ideal partner? Anyone who makes me feel like I’m special, wanted, needed and important, and can also make me laugh even when I don’t want to.

·         18. Do you want children? At this particular age? No. In the future, I’m unsure, it could be a possibility, but only if my partner and I both agree that it’s time. I don’t see myself as a mother, I see myself more as the cool aunt that the kids want to go to so they can get free candy and such.

·         19. Do you want a church wedding? Personally, no. I really don’t. If my partner does, we’d have to compromise in the end.

·         20. Are you religious? I’m not, but per my mum's request when I was younger, I had a Bible Study.

·         21. Have you ever been to the hospital? Yes. When I was born, broken/dislocated bones, family.

·         22. Have you ever got in trouble with the law? Nope.

·         23. Have you ever met any celebrities? I’ve met a celebrity’s sister?

·         24. Baths or showers? Both tbh. Baths are for when I’m feeling sickly, and showers are the everyday thing and are also used for when I have headaches.

·         25. What colour socks are you wearing? Black and teal.

·         26. Have you ever been famous? Nope.

·         27. Would you like to be a big celebrity? At times, yes, but no.

·         28. What type of music do you like? Everything. If you looked into my music app, you’d see covers, heavy metal, boybands, Soul, Rock, Disney, and so on, so on.

·         29. Have you ever been skinny dipping? No way.

·         30. How many pillows do you sleep with? 13. But they usually end up being thrown around haphazardly during my sleep.

·         31. What position do you usually sleep in? Head on the pillow, one arm under the pillow, other arm is over my stomach and my legs are crossed at the ankles and curled up into a ‘V’ shape.

·         32. How big is your house? Medium size.

·         33. What do you typically have for breakfast? Nothing.

·         34. Have you ever fired a gun? In games, yes. In real life, no.

·         35. Have you ever tried archery? Nope.

·         36. Favorite clean word? Future. My best friend and I made a little tune for it when we were younger so we could remember how to spell it.

·         37. Favorite swear word? Either ‘Fuck’; because I use it a lottttt, or ‘Bitch’ because it’s a versatile word.

·         38. What's the longest you've ever gone without sleep? A week.

·         39. Do you have any scars? Don’t we all in some ways?

·         40. Have you ever had a secret admirer? Nope, don’t blame anyone, I’m trash.

·         41. Are you a good liar? I would assume so. I don’t have any tells that give me away.

·         42. Are you a good judge of character? Generally. Multiple times, I have had a bad feeling about a friend or their partner or just a stranger, and 9 times out of 10, I’m right.

·         43. Can you do any other accents other than your own? Well, given that I speak 13 languages (currently learning the 14th one), my accent is bound to switch, but I can easily go from sounding normal to being a True Blue Aussie.

·         44. Do you have a strong accent? I personally don’t think so, you’d have to ask the Discord Peeps.

·         45. What is your favourite accent? Spanish. I’ve always loved the Spanish language and yeah, I fell in love with it.

·         46. What is your personality type? I’m not going to answer this one because it’d all be bad things. But I do believe myself to be kind.

·         47. What is your most expensive piece of clothing? Probably the pair of boots I own that my dad gave me. If he didn’t give them to me, they were retailing at around $120.

·         48. Can you curl your tongue? Yes.

·         49. Are you an innie or an outie? Innie all the way.

·         50. Left or right-handed? Right-handed.

·         51. Are you scared of spiders? YES.

·         52. Favorite food? Pizza.

·         53. Favorite foreign food? Bruschetta.

·         54. Are you a clean or messy person? Depends on my mood and such, but I generally sit in the middle of the scale.

·         55. Most used phrased? ‘Fuck off’ or more recently, ‘I love you’

·         56. Most used word? Probably ‘Hi’ or some obscene swear word.

·         57. How long does it take for you to get ready? Under 10 minutes.

·         58. Do you have much of an ego? I’ve been told I don’t, so I’m going to say no?

·         59. Do you suck or bite lollipops? Suck ‘em. I only bite them when they get tiny.

·         60. Do you talk to yourself? I do. If I haven’t talked to my friends or the Discord Family, I need a sane conversation per day.

·         61. Do you sing to yourself? Yes, I do.

·         62. Are you a good singer? I’ve been told I am, but I don’t think so.

·         63. Biggest Fear? Spiders, rejection, being a failure, being a disappointment.

·         64. Are you a gossip? Not really.

·         65. Best dramatic movie you've seen? (When this says dramatic, I’m going with over the top fight scenes and such so) Kingsman.

·         66. Do you like long or short hair? On myself? I like long hair because it hides my flaws, but I do enjoy the feeling of free-ness from having short hair.

·         67. Can you name all 50 states of America? Nope.

·         68. Favorite school subject? English and music.

·         69. Extrovert or Introvert? Introvert, which is hard at times because all my friends are extroverts.

·         70. Have you ever been scuba diving? Nope.

·         71. What makes you nervous? The dark, waiting for results.

·         72. Are you scared of the dark? Not as bad as I was when I was younger, but there still comes times where I’d prefer to have some source of light.

·         73. Do you correct people when they make mistakes? I do it to my irl friends in a joking manner, so I guess you can say yes?

·         74. Are you ticklish? Yes.

·         75. Have you ever started a rumour? Nope. Got better things to do than to spread false news.

·         76. Have you ever been in a position of authority? Yeah, but not like major. Just stuff for school.

·         77. Have you ever drank underage? Kinda. Only had bits and pieces here and there, so not really.

·         78. Have you ever done drugs? I’ve done a soft drug once, and it was a great experience, but I probably wouldn’t do it again, unless I was in the right situation/with the right person (if that makes sense) I’m one of those, ‘I’ll try anything before I knock it’ type people.

·         79. Who was your first real crush? A guy in year 1 I think. His name was Ruben Canon. He was one of the first guy friends I made and showed me kindness, so.

·         80. How many piercings do you have? I have just my ears pierced, but I want to get my cartilage, my nose and lip pierced.

·         81. Can you roll your Rs? Nopeity nope.

·         82. How fast can you type? “God Speed” if I recall Ana correctly.

·         83. How fast can you run? I don’t know, I don’t check.

·         84. What colour is your hair? At the moment? Red.

·         85. What colour are your eyes? Blue, but if we go by my best friend’s description – “They’re so blue, that I just want to jump into them.” – But if you do frighten me enough/scare me, my eyes briefly turn majorly green.

·         86. What are you allergic to? At the moment, nothing at all.

·         87. Do you keep a journal? When I was younger, I had one of the voice locked ones.

·         88. What do your parents do? My dad is a paint mixer and delivery driver and my mum is a retail worker.

·         89. Do you like your age? Yeah, I guess.

·         90. What makes you angry? People openly being a dick to someone, being offensive when there is no need to, being a dick to family, hurting someone I care about.

·         91. Do you like your own name? Yes and no. I copped so much shit for my first and last name. All because in my school, SJ became synonymous with Shame Job.

·         92. Have you already thought of baby names, and if so what are they? If I have a child, I’m partial to the name Felix (Not because of Pewds, I’ve always just liked the name) and Natasha.

·         93. Do you want a boy a girl for a child? I’d be happy with either one if it happens.

·         94. What are your strengths? I’m always there for others, I cheer people up, I always lend a shoulder to cry on, I’m always trying my best.

·         95. What are your weaknesses? I let things get to me too easily, I always try my best, I push myself past my breaking point and keep going, I run on fumes, I tell my friends to look after themselves when it’s so hard for me to look after myself, I always keep my problems on the backburner, I’m not as important as the others, I always wear a mask of fake happiness around my friends, I fail my parents, I’m not smart, I’m not good at anything.

·         96. How did you get your name? My name is from my mum’s old best friend. I was originally without the ‘H’ but it was pronounced wrong (Mum wanted it pronounced like Sarah is, just without the ‘H’)

·         97. Were your ancestor's royalty? I haven’t looked into my ancestry.

·         98. Do you have any scars? Already asked this question, so.

·         99. The colour of your bedspread? 1st blanket – Multicolored crochet, 2nd blanket – Purple, 3rd blanket – Red and grey, 4th blanket – Red, 5th Blanket – Mink White Tiger Blanket, 6th blanket – Glee blanket, 7th blanket – Red. (I know I have a lot of blankets)

·         100. The colour of your room? White walls. In my old house, my room used to be yellow walls, and then purple walls with pink accents/roof, and then white walls with a red feature wall.

[farrresidency]

Artist Interview #3 - Joliz Dela Peña

Wanda: When did you start making art? Or considering yourself an Artist?

Joliz: I think everybody started when they’re young but for me I took it seriously when I was around 15 years old. Because in my school they really encouraged doing art because there’s murals in the plazas in my country [Philippines] and they ask students to come in and draw on those big walls.

William: With paint?

Joliz: Yeah yeah with paint, making anything they wanted. It’s not like Graffiti or vandalism. So I was inspired by that but I wasn’t really into the mural thing because of the artstyle I guess. I was more into trying to improve in drawing and painting portraits at the time. But it spiraled down to doing landscapes in the end because in the Philippines I wasn’t allowed to paint inside the house so they made me a table in our garden and I painted there most of the time. I was really influenced by all this organic stuff that surrounded me and also I was really into landscapes and not into the trend at the time in the Philippines with murals and Hyperrealistic portraits.

Wanda: When was this?

Joliz: Around 2013. So that’s how I started, I wanted to make something different that’s not the same as my friends and other students work at the time. So I focused on landscapes and seascapes since that’s what I would mostly see around me.

William: Do you sometimes miss having an outdoor studio versus an indoor studio?

Joliz: Actually yes! That’s why I kinda hate Winter because around this time I won’t be able to go out and just paint in plein air. But a lot of things have changed since I moved to Canada, like I wasn’t able to paint landscapes like I used to back in the Philippines so moving here changed and evolved my artstyle. From being an impressionism Artist to what I do now which is all over the place.

Wanda: Do you think that has something to do with the move and adapting? Because you were used to always making art outside and painting things around you, now you’re in a country where you have to be indoors so the things around you don’t change as much unless you manipulate them. So do you think your artwork is reflective of the place where you make your work currently?

Joliz: Yeah I think so. My previous apartment I was sharing my bedroom with my sister and it was really cramped. I didn’t have a proper desk. Like that dresser was my desk at the time. So I was sitting in an uncomfortable position trying to paint. I was enjoying the work I’d make at the time but I was making art for people to see and not for me to feel better. So I stopped and took a really long break. I didn’t do any art, I just shut myself out from the world. Forced myself to find a new artstyle that will make me happy but I realised that’s not the point and to just release art that you feel good about. So I started painting random stuff, it’s not really my kind of artstyle but I enjoy doing it. All the stuff I’ve been doing I really like, I know it’s not consistent and I really liked that [impressionistic] art style for two years because I felt that I could build it and improve it and people would soon like it. But that didn’t happen. I was creating to make social media like me but not making myself feel better. Art for me is almost therapeutic and an escape so I wanted to force myself out since I’m restricting myself from happiness I guess. Just making it worse. So I stopped doing it.

Wanda: What year was this?

Joliz: Well between 2015 and 2017 I did that impressionism style.

Wanda: And during that time you were sharing your space with your sister?

Joliz: Yeah in a small room. Really cramped.

Wanda: So you clearly arranged your room to work around art. When you were arranging it, what were your considerations?

Joliz: I was considering more space for me to explore. Because back then I wasn’t really able to make bigger art and paint bigger spaces. I wasn’t allowed to use chemicals or oil paints because I was sharing a bedroom with my sister and she doesn’t like that. Having a small space really restricted me to explore other mediums, and now I’m able to do all of that because I have this bigger space. I have a window that I can open up. It’s really nice to have your own room to do more things. But again it’s not really ideal for me to use a lot chemicals because I’m trying to get into screenprinting and sometimes I want to develop my own films. I’d need a bigger space to do that, right now I’m content with how the space looks like and the mediums I can do in here. But if I could have an opportunity to get a studio I’d be happy to take that. I miss the fact that in the Philippines I’m out in the open and I used to paint in oils, ventilation was really nice and you don’t have to worry about inhaling the fumes.

Wanda: So how do you organise your studio space to match the mediums you practice?

Joliz: I’m not sure. I mean everything is all over the place. I said I have a second personality. I don’t touch her stuff because sometimes she would go over into my things. It’s really hard to explain because when I’m not active this other personality is active and she doesn’t her thing. I don’t really get to see how she does it. But whenever I wake up things are all over the place. I’m a really organized person, right now it isn’t because I was working with stuff. But now if I’m not doing anything or not doing a project at the moment this would all be really tidy I would organize it in a way in which every medium is in their own storage space.

Wanda: Which part of the room belongs to your other personality?

Joliz: This part of the right. My things are in the cabinets [and desk]. So all this stuff on the right is hers though the paintings in the box are mine. But I don’t really let paint of paper pads, I just gave her this wall to paint on. One time I woke up and the papers were blank and there was this note saying this is my space now. I’ve never really told anyone about my DID, my mental illness. Because I’m really scared about how people would perceive it. Like even my sister knows little about it. She only knows this part of my room.

William: Would you want us to omit that?

Joliz: No it’s ok. At some point I feel that I should tell people about it. It’s just recent that my depression crumbled into this and at first it’s just scary. Like this painting right here really scared the shit out of me. I never really do anything like this and there’s something engraved in here saying “do not touch”. It’s just different from my own art style and that if I post this anywhere on my social media or tell this to any of my friends they wouldn’t think that it’s me. I mean it’s not really me it’s the other personality in me.

William: Have you ever thought then about making a separate social media presence for the other personality?

Joliz: I would love to, I think she has one but I don’t really know. Because whenever I wake up I just see some stuff and I’m just like oh this is something new here. Like I just painted a picture of me so I put paint over it and the next day she did this green thing on here. I would love it if she had a different social media but again that would be really confusing with people because we have the same face but we have different art styles.

Wanda: Well people don’t need to know everything. Like you can always do… If you allow me to say it but you should always do what you feel comfortable with. Like this work is beautiful and you should do with it what you want to do with it and fuck everyone else. Like who’s the ultimate judge out there? Random kid with 5 billion likes but at the end of the day this is very real, it’s very human, and it’s very you. It’s a part of you in one way. But yeah it’s beautiful I love it.

William: I agree...  even though it scares you.

Wanda: So how long did it take for your space to get to where you wanted it to be?

Joliz: It took me from day one of moving here… I mean it’s not like what I wanted. Before I wanted to have a really long table so it’s definitely not yet what I wanted it to be. Still a work in progress but right now I’m pretty happy with what I have. But I would love to expand my space more but ever since she came up… I mean I still like it, I don’t want to be selfish and make her do art on the floor so I’m making her have this space.

Wanda: So it’s like if you’re sharing a studio essentially

Joliz: Yeah that’s true.

Wanda: Do you feel that there was a difference in your art before you started sharing your studio?

Joliz: Oh yeah definitely. This [pointing to right of the room] is very abstract. Now I’m starting to incorporate it into my own work like. I started doing the transfer with the acetone. It’s so boring and I needed to do something to do with it. So I try to incorporate what I’m seeing here and use the same colour palette and the gesture and brushstrokes onto my type of artstyle. I’m still trying to stay in my lane because she does acrylic and I do watercolour. Sharing with this type of art it influences me and whatever I make and it really translates to whatever I’m doing currently.

Wanda: If you could change anything about your space right now what would it be?

William: Like you have full omniscient power, you can literally change anything.

Joliz: Oh damn, I would break this wall and just expand it. I really want a bigger space. I’m now sharing with another person or personality and I think that it’s not big enough for the two of us. I kind of like her stuff and I want to see her do it on a proper surface like a canvas, not just on drawing paper and stuff on the wall.

Wanda: Do you think it’s important to have a specific recurring space in which you produce your work or do you personally feel capable of working in a multitude of locations?

Joliz: In my preference I would love to work in different places and I think I’ve already experienced it before, moving from the Philippines to this small apartment to having this space now. I realize that I don’t like settling down in one art style. Seeing all the evolution in my art… the journey is really nice for me. Seeing that I could improve in some ways is…

William: Gratifying?

Joliz: Yeah exactly.

Wanda: Do you feel that you work better in a situation of controlled chaos or neat tidiness in your space?

Joliz: I like a neat and tidy space. I find things when I leave them where they’re supposed to be so I really like organizing my stuff. But I think it’s inevitable to be chaotic in some sense. I feel that it will give you raw emotions when you let it go and be loose.

Wanda: Do you find yourself stressed out when working in here or do you feel that the space is relaxing?

Joliz: I feel that the space is really relaxing. As I said it’s an escape for me. I don’t do art in school that much, I’m only taking a complimentary. So outside this apartment I’m not doing art. So whenever I come back home I get to sit down and do whatever I want, paint and draw. It’s really relaxing for me and it’s like a stress-reliever.

Wanda: And what are you studying right now?

Joliz: I’m just in general sciences right now. I don’t really like the idea of going to an art school. I feel that you get restricted in some ways. I have friends that are taking studio arts at Concordia and they’re saying things like it’s not making them find their art style. My true essence. They’re making rules to be in the norm and fit in the system of art nowadays. I don’t really want to be a part of that. I just want to do my own thing in my own space. So I’m pursuing animal health tech. I don’t feel like I need validation, I don’t need to graduate in Fine Arts to be called an Artist.

William: I feel targeted, I’m the only Fine Arts student in here!

Wanda: We had a conversation about this before

William: Oh I know I know, I don’t take it personally

Joliz: I mean art school is fine it teaches you different techniques and stuff but I feel you can research about it on your own before.

William: I just like the aspect of seeing all of my classmates’s work. Like I like being in the space that everyday when I go to school it’s all people doing their work.

Joliz: Because everybody has their different perspective and how they approach art yeah.

William: Like most people in my classes do portraiture which is not at all what I do well. So some of them are doing like fashion photography, I have no… like I don’t do that. That’s not my style. So it’s cool to see. And a lot of my professors, I mean I can only touch on photography but like my prof Jérôme, he’s an artist resident. He’s not like a tenured teacher. So like when you’re doing an artist residence they pay you but you also have to teach some classes.

Wanda: And he’s badass.

William: So yeah I think that’s one of the advantage of art school, you kind of have to push back when people tell you to do a certain kind of work but I feel that the advantage is just being around people that are doing cool shit. But I don’t know if, like I can only really talk about photography.

Wanda: Yeah it’s as long as what you’re doing makes you feel good.

William: Yeah like I don’t think… like Art school is definitely not for everyone

Wanda: I would one hundred percent suck in art school. I love art but I like just spitting it out when I’m feeling something

William: I think like some people strive, like I know I strive when I have a deadline. People tell me ok do this by then. Or else I just do a series forever and I never finish it. It’s kind of hard to end my series with the type of photography that I do. Because I do a lot of documentary and historical stuff. It can go forever, so having someone tell me “no you have to hand it in now.” is really beneficial for me.

Wanda: Yeah I don’t really strive doing that

William: I think it just depends. Sorry for the tangent though!

Wanda: No no it’s ok

William: Just had to defend myself!

Wanda: But it’s really cool. Like you have to know yourself as a person. Will feels really comfortable doing that.

William: Like I know it’s for me and you also know that it’s not for you and it’s just as good and valid.

Wanda: And being an artist it’s equally hard being in any subject you take, like going business school I start to realize that everyday more and more because you’re an outcast to the artists and then you’re also an outcast to the business students.

William: Especially in business!

Wanda: Especially! I feel that when you’re an artist and you do things that you love you’re going to be an outcast, like the world is not a competition. Everyone has their own essence and brings little things to the table and do things a certain way. Whether it’s art school or the middle of the street, outside, in your room. It’s all dope. Like look at you [Joliz], like your book! You haven’t been living here for that long, you’re in science, you’re a woman, you’re an immigrant… there’s so many things that unfortunately could work in your disadvantage but you make beautiful work so more power to you

Joliz: Thank you, hell yeah

William: I mirror that

Wanda: On that note! What do you use the most in your studio?

Joliz: Oh that’s a tough question…

Wanda: Your chair!

Joliz: Well yeah! I guess… It would be super obvious if I say like a brush… but I would say masking tape. I love sticking shit on my wall as you guys can see. Masking tape is everywhere. Before you guys came here I cleaned up my room and I had a big ball of masking tape on my table. It’s an essential for me. I can’t properly make my art without it. I make clean borders, even with my watercolour paper.

Wanda: So universally, what do you think it a must for any studio?

Joliz: I’d say…

William: Masking tape?

Joliz: Yes! But no! Good lighting. And good ventilation! Because I love painting with natural light. I’m so happy I have this room with big windows. But working with an artificial light like this it really changes the way I paint and my mood. And yeah also good ventilation, I’m doing acetone and I don’t want to die here.

Wanda: So what is the prevailing emotion when you’re in your studio space?

Joliz: A lot of emotions. Basically whenever I walk in here now, I’d see this [Other personality’ work on the wall] and get sad but at the same time, also happy that she exists. I’m sharing a space with her now and not just looking at my own art every damn day whenever I wake up, whenever I go home. So yeah mixed emotions. I can’t really pinpoint what it is because it changes every time. Every time she adds or changes something in this space it would really give me a different emotion.

William: So do you think it inspires you in some way to have someone else’s work to be able to draw from?

Joliz: Yeah. Because my sister [and family] she doesn’t really do art so I wasn’t surrounded by artists. Having this now in my room, I get excited everyday, she probably did something different on her wall and I’m excited to see that and examine it.

William: Having been through building a studio for yourself, is there anything you could warn other artists? Like oh I messed up here don’t do this or just advice

Wanda: Like what would you recommend to other students that might be in a similar situation. Putting a studio space within their room or even having a studio space in your room while living with parents.

Joliz: I guess just build your space and don’t give a fuck because they don’t sleep in that room. They don’t sleep in that room. It’s your own heaven I suppose. If you want to put stuff on your wall, if you want to paint on your wall it’s up to you. Do whatever makes you comfortable and happy because it’s a space that you’re going to be making a lot of art in. Might as well drown your room with art.

Wanda: Did you have any inspirations for arranging your studio space?

Joliz: I actually don’t have any… I’ve never been to another studio or artist’s room. I kind of just build this based on how I feel. Back in my old apartment I didn’t even put up some of my artworks because I think it would look more cramped. Not really spacious. Now I have my own room and I’m free to do whatever I want basically.

Wanda: I’m just wondering, you do different styles and you’ve shown us different pieces that change through time. Has changing your painting style and techniques, has it made you change your room to properly accommodate exploring those different techniques and mediums?

Joliz: Yeah, yeah.

Wanda: Ok hit us!

Joliz: Most of the time I would take all the stuff away from that table and put my easel there, start painting bigger pieces. Sometimes I’d paint on the floor if the painting surface is too big. And also with the acetone, there’s just so many fumes in here that… like I’m still conscious that I’m going to sleep in here and I don’t want all the fumes to be stuck in here. So I kind of cheat and go outside on the patio to do that. Basically I’d love to have a separate room to do art because I feel that I’m really limited in here.

William: And a strong ventilation system! Maybe that’s something you could change about your room; put like a big kitchen hood just suck everything.

Joliz: That’d be nice, I’m going to write that down.

[asheespiquantpeculiarities]

Assault on Various Fronts Pt3

I kept my composure.

I kept silent and calm and did not make a fuss. I stood there through the entire cheering-part of it.

They were cheering for it.

Cheering that I was supposed to be married to this bloody invader! Home destroyer! Murderer!

What the HELL!

As soon as we were inside, I zoned in on my father: “NO. Father, I have been a loyal daughter all my life, but I will not marry this murderer!,” I pointed at him.

And my father shrunk slightly, apparently aware I would not back down on this. But he shook his head: “It is out of my hands, daughter of mine”

“Nonsense, father! You are the one that led the negotiations, you are the one that traded me off, when I wasn't even there! How could you!,” I was fuming. And he didn't even look me in the eye, “Your own flesh and blood, your only daughter! How could you!,” without even telling me, without even asking!

And he just stood there an-

Something had taken my hand, I pulled it away and lashed out.

The slap hung a little in the air. There was a bit of tension.

I should not have slapped said murderer. It's a bad idea to slap murderers. Especially if he has others with him that have their hands on their weapons.

Then he retook my hand – slower this time -, keeping eye contact, and then bared his neck and pressed his lips to the back of my hand.

Against my will, a bit of colour did raise to my cheeks. As horrible as he was, it was not every day that a man declared his love for me.

He then stood back up and took a step back. And I pulled my hand back. Frowning, grumbling.

And he... looked like he meant it when he said: “... I am sorry, lady Gabrielle. It was – apart from being politically ideal – a very selfish decision. I... could not wish for a better partner. You are brave. And knowledgable. It was a joy to walk, talk and work with you in the few instances I had the opportunity to – I regret your sudden retraction from the table. I would have enjoyed your input. You obviously know how to act a true ruler... do what is best for the people,” he gestured to the balcony, “They need all reason to celebrate something right now. And a true sign of lasting peace. You didn't take it from them. Even if you had all right to do so,” he looked truly sorry.

I made a cutting off gesture: “Hah. Simply because I do not want to upset them with a scandal right up front does not mean I am going to go through with it, this marriage is a farce! I hate you, you invaded my home! I will never marry you!,” I almost stormed off when he – the bloody stupid victor of this battle – got down on one knee and looked up with a somewhat sad smile.

“You... are right to say that, to feel that way. But I still think you will do it. Because you were raised your father's daughter. And you put your people first. And this marriage – as much as you might hate it – will form a bond with the Southern Isles. Your nation will be safe from invasions, since we control the neighbouring countries, the much needed sea forces will be added to your disposal, more – and better – trade routes will be usable. It is an inseparable bond. This will bring safety and wealth and this guarantees the promises will be kept. And you can not let your people live in fear. The same as I can not. Of course you are free to decline. I will not force a bond. But this – especially since you are the only daughter of the house – will be an iron clad contract, with a bond between us”

I hated him a bit more.

Then I grabbed the hem of my dress and took a breath: “I will think about it,” and with that, I squared my shoulders and left the room, leaving him on his knees.

…

Three days later, I was with our tailors, getting the dress fitted. Still furious, still hating it, but... he was right. I could not rob my people of their freedom. And not their hope for peace.

Things that were very much in jeopardy if I affronted this blackmailer by refusing his proposal. Bastard. As if I had a choice.

Ugh.

The tailors fitted my top right now. I'd usually delighted in this. It was very fine lace, great details and floral patterns woven into it. Over one shoulder was thrown a long, flow-y cloth, clinging to my skin and accentuating my figure while still spreading itself all around. It felt heavenly on the skin.

I would really enjoy this a lot more, especially with Michelle looking like this.

She was the only thing keeping me halfway sane these days. Those last few days before I had to leave. Leave.

I hadn't told her yet, that she couldn't come with me. But Sir Israfil was an asset to the council. And kept father level-headed when emotions welled up. I knew how that is and... he wouldn't do well without someone like this. And Sir Israfil would follow his sister everywhere, if it was too dangerous. And this... was too dangerous for his tastes. I knew.

It would be one of the worst good-byes.

Because she was one of the only people that saw that they were not all good, but- but...

…

I still looked at Michelle and I could swear there were tears in her eyes. She just sat there, on the bench, hands clenched on the seat and had the most stupid, wobbly smile on her face. Like she wanted to be angry, but she somehow... couldn't.

… since I knew her almost better than myself, I knew this to be true.

“What is it, Chelle?,” I twitched a bit, the tailor apparently enjoyed spiking me with needles. Well, they were under pressure...

“You're... you're just so beautiful,” I was not sure if I was even capable of putting this amount of adoration into a sentence. And... I mean... I knew she appreciated me and my body, but this was... a little excessive. I mean... she forgot to be fierce. That... didn't happen.

But it was... my wedding dress. And they got the paint and hair done as well – had toupéd it up and there were tiny curls falling down and framing my face.

… it was the day I was supposed to look perfect.

They put a belt around my middle, to better hold the accessories. And Michelle was just somewhat losing it, staring at me and somewhat... vibrating. I couldn't even be mad right there and then.

I let it happen and enjoy being adored by this fierce, impossible woman.

I mean... she had stared down my groom-to be when he had tried to talk to me during the preparations. Then lectured him about decency. She was not too great at talking to royalty when it had anything to do with my own comfort or safety.

She would be a great bridesmaid, no matter what other's said. And no matter how much I had to badger her into a dress. She agreed, in the end.

So, in another four days, she was whom I followed into the hall, filled with people, lead by my father to the altar. She was still looking fierce in her dress, ready to defend me at a moment's notice (only not if she looked at me, that still ended with a forlorn smile).

And then... the groom entered. And what in the goddesses name was he wearing.

Just... what.

He had matched colours with me, using navy blue and white, but otherwise... it... was nothing I had ever seen before, full of ornaments and that is... fit.

It was an asymmetrical... thing. A cape falling down on the opposite shoulder. And otherwise it... fit. I mean, I had seen him in his war outfit and the diplomatic clothes, but they never had... accentuated a figure. That was muscular. And...

… he really did have wide shoulders. And perfect hair.

He was wearing breeches, for all that was holy! There were sequins stitched to his uniform, too, and  horizontal threads of navy blue and the reflected slightly and... I... he...

I looked away. Staring at form-fitting clothing was not appropriate. It was not.

And this was not part of our culture! He just... tried to make it fit in! And didn't take what he gave him, but made an effort to incorporate our colours to compromise and-

… just because it was clever didn't mean this was any less of a farce!

No matter how much this clung to perfectly formed calves.

… this day was just too full of people. I looked toward the priest again. She... would read the sermon. Would make us read our vows, would make us swear to be loyal, to be true. Would make us swear to stay at each other's side.

Because politics. What else.

And we read our vows. And I swore to serve the people – his and mine – and to be only the best for them and as his wife and he... swore to protect his people, to never let harm come to them again and to love me. To be there for me and honour me for the rest of my life. Because I was more than worth it.

And he looked bloody sincere.

We each accepted the tattoos on our wrists – a stylised hippocampus, crest animal of my family - drawn by the best artists in the land. And bowed before one another.

And the crowd cheered. And thus. We were pronounced husband and wife.

My first marriage – the one in my home was done. The second would follow when we reached the Southern Isles. At least I was spared until then.

Tomorrow... we would start the travels. And I would need to say good bye.

[asheewrites]

Assault On Various Fronts Pt 3

I kept my composure.

I kept silent and calm and did not make a fuss. I stood there through the entire cheering-part of it.

They were cheering for it.

Cheering that I was supposed to be married to this bloody invader! Home destroyer! Murderer!

What the HELL!

As soon as we were inside, I zoned in on my father: “NO. Father, I have been a loyal daughter all my life, but I will not marry this murderer!,” I pointed at him.

And my father shrunk slightly, apparently aware I would not back down on this. But he shook his head: “It is out of my hands, daughter of mine”

“Nonsense, father! You are the one that led the negotiations, you are the one that traded me off, when I wasn’t even there! How could you!,” I was fuming. And he didn’t even look me in the eye, “Your own flesh and blood, your only daughter! How could you!,” without even telling me, without even asking!

And he just stood there an-

Something had taken my hand, I pulled it away and lashed out.

The slap hung a little in the air. There was a bit of tension.

I should not have slapped said murderer. It’s a bad idea to slap murderers. Especially if he has others with him that have their hands on their weapons.

Then he retook my hand – slower this time -, keeping eye contact, and then bared his neck and pressed his lips to the back of my hand.

Against my will, a bit of colour did raise to my cheeks. As horrible as he was, it was not every day that a man declared his love for me.

He then stood back up and took a step back. And I pulled my hand back. Frowning, grumbling.

And he… looked like he meant it when he said: “… I am sorry, lady Gabrielle. It was – apart from being politically ideal – a very selfish decision. I… could not wish for a better partner. You are brave. And knowledgable. It was a joy to walk, talk and work with you in the few instances I had the opportunity to – I regret your sudden retraction from the table. I would have enjoyed your input. You obviously know how to act a true ruler… do what is best for the people,” he gestured to the balcony, “They need all reason to celebrate something right now. And a true sign of lasting peace. You didn’t take it from them. Even if you had all right to do so,” he looked truly sorry.

I made a cutting off gesture: “Hah. Simply because I do not want to upset them with a scandal right up front does not mean I am going to go through with it, this marriage is a farce! I hate you, you invaded my home! I will never marry you!,” I almost stormed off when he – the bloody stupid victor of this battle– got down on one knee and looked up with a somewhat sad smile.

“You… are right to say that, to feel that way. But I still think you will do it. Because you were raised your father’s daughter. And you put your people first. And this marriage – as much as you might hate it – will form a bond with the Southern Isles. Your nation will be safe from invasions, since we control the neighbouring countries, the much needed sea forces will be added to your disposal, more – and better – trade routes will be usable. It is an inseparable bond. This will bring safety and wealth and this guarantees the promises will be kept. And you can not let your people live in fear. The same as I can not. Of course you are free to decline. I will not force a bond. But this – especially since you are the only daughter of the house – will be an iron clad contract, with a bond between us”

I hated him a bit more.

Then I grabbed the hem of my dress and took a breath: “I will think about it,” and with that, I squared my shoulders and left the room, leaving him on his knees.

…

Three days later, I was with our tailors, getting the dress fitted. Still furious, still hating it, but… he was right. I could not rob my people of their freedom. And not their hope for peace.

Things that were very much in jeopardy if I affronted this blackmailer by refusing his proposal. Bastard. As if I had a choice.

Ugh.

The tailors fitted my top right now. I’d usually delighted in this. It was very fine lace, great details and floral patterns woven into it. Over one shoulder was thrown a long, flow-y cloth, clinging to my skin and accentuating my figure while still spreading itself all around. It felt heavenly on the skin.

I would really enjoy this a lot more, especially with Michelle looking like this.

She was the only thing keeping me halfway sane these days. Those last few days before I had to leave. Leave.

I hadn’t told her yet, that she couldn’t come with me. But Sir Israfil was an asset to the council. And kept father level-headed when emotions welled up. I knew how that is and… he wouldn’t do well without someone like this. And Sir Israfil would follow his sister everywhere, if it was too dangerous. And this… was too dangerous for his tastes. I knew.

It would be one of the worst good-byes.

Because she was one of the only people that saw that they were not all good, but- but…

…

I still looked at Michelle and I could swear there were tears in her eyes. She just sat there, on the bench, hands clenched on the seat and had the most stupid, wobbly smile on her face. Like she wanted to be angry, but she somehow… couldn’t.

… since I knew her almost better than myself, I knew this to be true.

“What is it, Chelle?,” I twitched a bit, the tailor apparently enjoyed spiking me with needles. Well, they were under pressure…

“You’re… you’re just so beautiful,” I was not sure if I was even capable of putting this amount of adoration into a sentence. And… I mean… I knew she appreciated me and my body, but this was… a little excessive. I mean… she forgot to be fierce. That… didn’t happen.

But it was… my wedding dress. And they got the paint and hair done as well – had toupéd it up and there were tiny curls falling down and framing my face.

… it was the day I was supposed to look perfect.

They put a belt around my middle, to better hold the accessories. And Michelle was just somewhat losing it, staring at me and somewhat… vibrating. I couldn’t even be mad right there and then.

I let it happen and enjoy being adored by this fierce, impossible woman.

I mean… she had stared down my groom-to be when he had tried to talk to me during the preparations. Then lectured him about decency. She was not too great at talking to royalty when it had anything to do with my own comfort or safety.

She would be a great bridesmaid, no matter what other’s said. And no matter how much I had to badger her into a dress. She agreed, in the end.

So, in another four days, she was whom I followed into the hall, filled with people, lead by my father to the altar. She was still looking fierce in her dress, ready to defend me at a moment’s notice (only not if she looked at me, that still ended with a forlorn smile).

And then… the groom entered. And what in the goddesses name was he wearing.

Just… what.

He had matched colours with me, using navy blue and white, but otherwise… it… was nothing I had ever seen before, full of ornaments and that is… fit.

It was an asymmetrical… thing. A cape falling down on the opposite shoulder. And otherwise it… fit. I mean, I had seen him in his war outfit and the diplomatic clothes, but they never had… accentuated a figure. That was muscular. And…

… he really did have wide shoulders. And perfect hair.

He was wearing breeches, for all that was holy! There were sequins stitched to his uniform, too, and  horizontal threads of navy blue and the reflected slightly and… I… he…

I looked away. Staring at form-fitting clothing was not appropriate. It was not.

And this was not part of our culture! He just… tried to make it fit in! And didn’t take what he gave him, but made an effort to incorporate our colours to compromise and-

… just because it was clever didn’t mean this was any less of a farce!

No matter how much this clung to perfectly formed calves.

… this day was just too full of people. I looked toward the priest again. She… would read the sermon. Would make us read our vows, would make us swear to be loyal, to be true. Would make us swear to stay at each other’s side.

Because politics. What else.

And we read our vows. And I swore to serve the people – his and mine – and to be only the best for them and as his wife and he… swore to protect his people, to never let harm come to them again and to love me. To be there for me and honour me for the rest of my life. Because I was more than worth it.

And he looked bloody sincere.

We each accepted the tattoos on our wrists – a stylised hippocampus, crest animal of my family - drawn by the best artists in the land. And bowed before one another.

And the crowd cheered. And thus. We were pronounced husband and wife.

My first marriage – the one in my home was done. The second would follow when we reached the Southern Isles. At least I was spared until then.

Tomorrow… we would start the travels. And I would need to say good bye.