#vintage jv

[novelconcepts]

17 for taivan?

17 - Stealing or Sharing Clothes

Van starts stealing her clothes when they're fifteen, and she's sneaky as fuck about it. Taissa doesn't even realize her sweatshirt is gone until she knocks on Van's door one Saturday morning, intending to drag Van out shopping.

(Van kind of hates shopping; "I have clothes," she said blankly, the last time Tai pulled this. "How many does one person need?" It is therefore funny to inflict upon her the ravages of Claire's and Forever 21.)

Van opens her door, bleary, rubbing her eyes. She's wearing basketball shorts with a hole in the black mesh and Taissa's JV sweatshirt.

"Hey," she says, "that's mine."

Van twists at the waist, looking over her own shoulder at the name imprinted on navy cotton. "Wouldja look at that. How'd it fall into my laundry basket?"

Taissa takes it back from her that very day, even going so far as to buy Van a replacement hoodie. Not that she needs to replace it, since it's her fucking property, but whatever.

A few weeks go by before Van steals it again.

It becomes a thing. Taissa will go searching for a favorite t-shirt or sweater, certain it's been devoured by whichever laundry goblins are responsible for lost socks, and lo and behold: she finds it. In Van's room. Slung over Van's chair, or under Van's jacket at a party. Tucked into Van's locker, hanging between Van's backpack and Van's upsetting stash of ancient book reports.

"We don't even have the same style!" she groans. "Stop stealing my shit!"

"Our shit," says Van sagely, pulling yet another sweater down over her head. She's already wearing a sweater. It's September. This is so gloriously stupid, all Taissa can do is laugh.

When they crash, Van's thefts grow less intentional. They all do this now, dressing with blind eyes, paying little attention to the original owner of any given article of clothing. Clothes with overt wear-and-tear are recycled into blankets or bandages. Whatever's left is fair game, tossed into a communal stash.

Van wears Taissa's jacket often, pulling it tight around her diminishing frame. Taissa, in turn, wears Van's zip-ups, her rugby stripes. There's a modicum of control in swapping closets, though it pains Taissa to think they're now the same size, that they've shrunk down to a single-stitch format of a person. She tries not to focus on the facts. Tries to think instead of the dizzy warmth that comes from wearing Van's clothes, as if Van is--always--wrapping her close.

Eventually, she forgets. What was hers. What was Van's. Some things might even have begun life in Travis' suitcase, or Natalie's, adopted by the two of them instead. Even when they go home, some of those items remain. She touches a flannel shirt, hanging off Van's otherwise naked shoulders as she flips pancakes one morning, and thinks maybe it was Shauna's, once.

The line is razor-thin. What is hers. What is Van's. She has trouble telling the difference. They share the same shoe size. The same jacket size. They dress for warmth and the steady assurance that they will be safe, should another tragedy strike. For a long time, fashion is such a non-issue, Taissa can't imagine ever having cared about the mall, about Forever 21, about laughing when Van insisted she already owned plenty of shirts.

Time ticks by, and Van's in her closet more and more. Van's henley hanging off her own torso. Her jeans clinging to Van's hips. Is there any difference? Aren't they one soul sharing two bodies?

The first time Taissa comes home with a new dress, Van whistles. Grins. Still, there's a shadow in her eyes. That's not for me, she seems to be thinking. That's not for sharing. And, maybe: You did this on purpose.

It's the first step down a freshly-lain road. Taissa begins buying what she likes. What feels professional. What feels interesting. Van continues pulling from her side of the closet, but only the old stuff. The vintage t-shirts, the weathered hoodies. She leaves the new items be.

Maybe that's why Taissa buys a soft gray sweater one day. Not fancy. Straight-cut, simple, a loose collar. She buys it for herself, but when she looks into the mirror, it's Van she can picture curled within the warm fabric.

Van, who--indeed--is sitting on the couch in that very sweater not three days later.

"Stealing my shit," says Tai fondly. As if they're totally normal these days. As if they haven't been arguing more. As if Van hasn't been sleeping on the couch. As if the sex hasn't been near-violent, and the silences, afterward, excruciating.

"Our shit," Van replies, craning her head back. Long red hair forms a waterfall over the back of the couch. Taissa bows to kiss her, fingers clenching around the collar of her sweater. She runs her fingers over the soft knit, uses the weave to pull Van close. It's a good sweater. Looks better on Van than it did on her.

She will miss it when Van is gone.

[jvfurniture]

Furniture & Home Design Predictions for 2024 in the UK: Embracing the Future of Interiors

As we step into 2024, the landscape of home design and furniture in the UK is poised for exciting transformations. At JV Furniture, we're thrilled to give you an exclusive sneak peek into the trends that will redefine our living spaces this year. Here's what to expect:

1. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Designs:

The green wave continues to surge, with a heightened focus on sustainability. Expect to see more furniture made from recycled materials and ethically sourced wood, as environmental consciousness takes center stage in home design. JV Furniture proudly offers a range of eco-friendly options, marrying style with sustainability.

2. Multi-functional Spaces:

As remote working becomes more prevalent, furniture that can adapt to various needs is on the rise. Look for convertible desks, foldable tables, and modular sofas – perfect for the modern professional balancing work and leisure at home.

3. Bold Colors and Textures:

Say goodbye to the muted palettes of yesteryears. 2024 is all about making a statement with vibrant colors and rich textures. From deep blues to energetic yellows, our collection will help infuse your space with personality and warmth.

4. Vintage Revival:

There's a growing appreciation for the charm and quality of vintage pieces. Expect a blend of retro and contemporary styles, creating unique, time-transcending spaces. Our vintage-inspired selections offer a modern twist on classic designs.

5. Smart Furniture:

Technology integration isn't just for gadgets anymore. Furniture with built-in charging ports, voice-activated features, and even health-monitoring capabilities are becoming mainstream. Explore our smart furniture range for a glimpse into the future.

6. Biophilic Design:

Bringing the outdoors in remains a key theme. Natural light, plant integration, and organic materials will dominate, creating serene, nature-inspired havens. Our new line includes pieces that perfectly complement this trend.

7. Handcrafted Authenticity:

In contrast to mass-produced items, there’s a growing desire for handcrafted furniture. Artisanal pieces with unique stories to tell will become coveted items in UK homes.

8. Maximalism Over Minimalism:

While minimalism had its moment, maximalism is making a comeback. Expect bold patterns, eclectic mixes, and a 'more is more' approach to decorating.

9. Wellness-Centric Designs:

Furniture that contributes to wellbeing – think ergonomic chairs, standing desks, and relaxation-focused pieces – will be in demand as health continues to be a top priority.

10. Local Influences:

There's a rising trend in celebrating local design talent. British craftsmanship and design nuances will be sought after, reflecting a pride in national artistry.

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At JV Furniture, we're excited to be at the forefront of these trends, offering a range of products that not only align with 2024's predictions but also set new standards in home design. Whether you're redecorating, renovating, or simply looking for that perfect piece to complete your space, we have something for every trend and every taste.

Visit us at jvfurniture.co.uk to explore our latest collections and start bringing the future of home design into your living spaces today!

[globalatomic]

John Varvatos the Riley vintage wash textured roll neck sweater - Black

CA$298.00

This understated piece features a vintage wash that infuses it with an air of time-worn charm, while the all-over textured stitching ensures every glance reveals more depth. Designed with ribbed cuffs, a rolled neck, and forward-leaning shoulders, this sweater is punctuated by a discreet flag label that whispers quality, redefining your casual encounters.

100% Mercerized Organic Cotton

Rolled neck

Long sleeve

All over texture stitch

Vintage wash

Forward shoulder

Ribbed cuff and hem

Signature JV Flag Label

Model is wearing size L

[havnblog]

The Story of My 1962 Bass Guitar

My Most Treasured Possession

In 2010, I went on a school trip from Norway to Los Angeles. I wanted a new bass, so I took a chance, and sold both basses I had at the time, to have funds to spend in L.A.

I sold this 1979 Rickenbacker 4001, in my favourite finish: Autumnglo. I also sold the bass in the background, a 1982 Squire JV Jazz bass.

I was looking for a P-bass

But after not finding anything interesting in Guitar Center and other “regular” music stores, I searched online. There I found a store called Norman’s Rare Guitars. I didn’t know it at the time, but it’s one of the world’s most highly rated vintage shops – and they had a real bargain. You see, Fender instruments from the early 60s are expensive – especially the “Pre-CBS” ones.1 To put things into perspective: Norman’s have one currently, in great condition, which they want $10,900 for!

Mine looked like this when it was new. But not any more!

The one I ended up buying was even older, from 1962, but “only” $3,000. Not only that, the currency rate was much more favourable, from Norwegian Kroner, at the time. I paid what today would be $1,700.

Why it was so much cheaper

The guys as Norman’s said that the bass spent most of its life in the possession of a man they know who was. However, he wasn’t a stranger to experimenting with chemistry and his own blood – and the bass bears witness to this.

Here’s what I know about originality

I know that the volume pot is new (as I’ve swapped it myself) – and I don’t think the knobs are original.2 The rear strap button has been moved (to accommodate the heavy tuners). The headstock strap button is missing, alongside the pickup and bridge covers. However, as far as I know, the rest is original: Neck (more on this later), thumb rest, bridge tuners, pickup, and electronics.

As mentioned, my bass used to look like the one in the image above here – same finish and all.3 But now, and when I bought it, it looks like this:

The tortoise pick guard has been sanded down, or something, to appear matte. The sunburst finish has been removed, and then he's applied a gold finish before adding a dark purple. The pickup also got a bit of the dark purple colour. He's also made notches on each side of the neck, for some reason. And even weirder, is that he's made tiny holes in the clay dot inlays, and filled them with a bit of lime green paint.

I think he was a bit lazy, or something, with the backside. It’s a much lighter shade of purple, so I think he only bothered with one layer. More notches, above the neck plate. It’s a bit hard to tell here, but you can see that when the purple wears away it shows gold first, then wood.

He also made notches around most of the headstock. I think the decal is newer (late 60s). It might've been from the time he did this weird notch job? Because they've actually been lacquered over properly! A bit of lime green here as well. 👍🏻

Quite a bit of wear on the neck.

The pick guard is quite wobbly – which I like, as it gives a nice spot for my pick. Here you can also see that he filled the inlays on the side of the neck with green as well. (But, funnily enough, not the one furthest in. I guess it was too much of a faff.)

“All the best swords instruments have names”

I’ve named the bass Hufsa, which is the Norwegian name for The Groke. Not only does my bass and her share colour and general shape – I also like the idea of both being a bit off-putting, while only looking for friendship.

The neck

I love, love, love the neck of this P-bass – precisely because it’s not a P-bass neck. I don’t have the largest hands, so I love that, according to Norman’s, the original owner asked the Fender factory (which was local to him) to deliver it with a jazz bass/A neck.

The bass serial number indicates that it was delivered in early 1962, and the neck is dated September 1961 – so the story is very plausible, as Fender would make bodies and necks separate, and match them up later.

Re-fret and more

Currently, the bass is “in the shop”.4 It’ll get new frets, new clay dot inlays, and a bit more – but I won’t be going for a refinish or other restoration efforts. I want to keep the mojo!

I’m glad it has the story it has

Now, if the bass was closer to mint, it would obviously be worth way more than it is today. But then I would never, ever been able to afford it! And it’s a remarkable player, that keeps its tuning forever and sounds terrific. And I will never get rid of it. The only bad thing, is that it’s completely removed my GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome) for new basses…

Sound examples

Here’s a song from my band Klondike:

Feet in the Water

And another one:

Feet in the Water

In 1965, Fender got bought by CBS. And the quality dropped a bit after this. ↩︎

But they are old and heavy. ↩︎

The sunburst is barely visible in the electronics pocket. ↩︎

Will report back when it’s done! ↩︎

[mywifeleftme]

209: Rob Hertner // Bucky's Heartaches

Bucky's Heartaches Rob Hertner 1989, Texsun

Private press alert! Released on the (evidently) one-off Texsun Records in 1989 by one Rob “Bucky” Hertner, there isn’t a ton of information online about this one (regarding the music anyway), but a country record cut at Abbey Road Studios (!) tends to stand out nonetheless. This is no elaborate production job, but sounds quite good for a self-produced independent release, and the presence of B.J. Cole on dobro and pedal steel (he played on “Tiny Dancer” and a bunch of Scott Walker LPs, among hundreds of other recordings) suggests Hertner either had the money to hire good session players or considerable reserves of personal charm.

Hertner’s stuff is pure honky tonk in the Gary Stewart mould (“I play the jukebox to remember / What I’m drinkin’ to forget”; “She put the hell in hell-o / The good in goodbye”), and as a singer he’s not bad at all. Particularly by the too-slick-by-far standards of ‘80s country, Bucky’s Heartaches is a passable disc for traditionalists. Though it starts to repeat itself a bit by the end, it’d sound good ambiently twanging away behind the cracking of billiard balls and peanut shells at a saloon.

Alright, stick with me a little longer, we’re nearly at the good stuff. Hertner, who passed away in 2012, was always a musical dabbler (he cut an unreleased set of Buddy Holly covers as Bob Hertner in 1981 at Norman Petty Studios in New Mexico; Discogs lists a 7” of unknown vintage under the name Robert Hertner Group), but he was somewhat better known as the self-styled Ambassador and Consul General for the Republic of Texas (R.O.T.) to Europe. The Republic of Texas was (and perhaps is) a sovereign citizen-adjacent armed militia which claims that, because a majority of residents voted to secede from the Union in 1861, Texas has been illegally held captive by the US government for the past 150 years or so. They’re best known for a very dumb JV Ruby Ridge standoff with the Texas Rangers back in 1997 that resulted in (in ascending order of importance) the arrest of leader Rick McLaren; one R.O.T. member’s death; a gunshot wound to innocent bystander Joe Rowe; and the death of Rowe’s loyal dog Luca.

That was about it for the nascent Republic, but somehow Hertner, who’d moved to the UK some time in the mid-‘80s after a failed bid to become mayor of Amarillo, got involved anyway, and became its most visible post-standoff exponent. Following his ascendance to the ambassadorship, Hertner popped on occasion in the ‘human interest’ section of the papers: here are The Guardian and the Southern Poverty Law Center clowning on his failed multi-million pound lawsuit against British television licence collectors; The Independent covered his attempt to establish diplomatic relations with Tony Blair; at least one uh outlet picked up a wire item about Hertner’s disgruntlement at not snagging an invitation to Harry and Meghan’s 2005 royal wedding.

It's difficult to tell how much of the Ambassador's activity was in earnest, though his music suggests a sense of humour. In spite of the mainstream media’s mockery of his politics, or perhaps because of it, Hertner did have the respect and even admiration of a number of his peers. I found the following obituary by Dave Russell, a poet and longtime outsider folk musician (Billy Childish produced an LP in the early ‘90s):

“Suddenly at his home in Holmfield House on Wednesday evening the legend that was Robert Hertner passed away. Robert, known as 'Bucky' or 'The 9 Stone Cowboy' worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for fellow residents north of the borough. His relentless campaign against residents being bullied by TMO [Ed. Tenant Management Organization] staff has resulted in the sacking of some but not all of the TMO bullies. He was currently holding the TMO to account over a vulnerable resident being assaulted by a TMO staff member. For some time, he had been asking the TMO for proof of identity of the person said to have carried out the attack. As usual the TMO refused to reveal this information. Robert was a generous man always first to put his hand in his pocket. Never afraid to make a counterattack when in the pub. Robert will be sadly missed by all who knew him and it is unlikely that his likes will ever be seen again. A talented musician and filmmaker Robert captivated audiences with his unique style. An outstanding guitarist, composer, arranger and songwriter Robert produced some wonderful recordings. Robert was an inspiration to many. Tracey Emin the well-known artist is said to have taken inspiration from Robert's living room. Anyone who met Robert could not help but be impressed by his wealth of knowledge both useful and useless.”

It would not be unreasonable to infer that Hertner’s conflicts with the TMO were a further result of his lifelong libertarian streak, but it is worth noting that the organization in question was the Kensington & Chelsea TMO, which would later be dissolved and sued to hell for their management of Grenfell Tower, which infamously caught fire in 2017 causing more than 140 casualties. I recently reached out to Russell to try to learn more about what Hertner was like as a person—our conversation didn’t add much detail to the picture, but he continued to hold him in high regard, characterizing Hertner as “a major talent with an exceptional understanding of economic history, whose works deserve to be in major circulation.”

I also reached out to B.J. Cole (a longshot) to see if he had any recollection of Hertner, but as of press time haven’t heard anything back—if any of you happen to have Tracey Emin’s contact info, y’know, hit me up. I’ll update this post if I learn anything more about him.

209/365

[tasiturney]

i love the presets but the jv-880 being my only proper Synth makes me wanna forego presets and make my own patches for everything, especially since i have the vintage synth expansion card due to absurdly dumb luck

[paincorpsrarefinds]

Vintage Lane Miniature Cedar Chest/Jewelry Box - Roth's Furniture

COLLECTIBLES: Seller: bearlady1543 (100.0% positive feedback) Location: US Condition: Used Price: 23.95 USD Buy It Now https://www.ebay.com/itm/115820575880?hash=item1af771bc88%3Ag%3AYy8AAOSwmxFkd~Jv&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAA4IlEr1MZPftxHNaLimYJoZRmPtAfdn%2BbxK5YUfZwSTgf8hWPAqjlTnkxoWVVe7BPlozoJkgMFG%2F0W1dSndpCZmcYOTr3tKbFPx7jrx6yjKnvKwfNteH0Gveak5ZlRHS96AOi8wSha8txS22fhUexJUN9f2%2B8T4npezz7u%2FKfM%2FE7hArZVlUNZvbmq0clS59%2BpSJX5%2BBPwXcfEaReB4FbbU5QOdLfGdrT3a%2FJyh7QuTiq17JH49nzySaVIQq2Z7wgAneZ9szBLJa%2BEB%2FTJ2GRC%2BO6p4jcd1vKG4fLUcbze0zj&mkevt=1&mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&campid=5338779482&customid=&toolid=10049&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=tumblr

[southlakethreads]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: Vintage JV REED Metal Dust Pan M. Taber Dutch Amish Folk Design.

[babiesarelazy]

[mamotreco]

Roland JV-880 Synth Sound Preset Demo Part 2 Roland JV-880 is a digital rackmount synth (keyboard version is called the JV-80) that came out in 1992. In this video, I go through my favourite sounds from the B-Bank, specifically where you can find all tasty string sounds this line is known for (A-Bank here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4G183tv4eU). If you want to hear a specific sound, I've put a list of time stamps below. Also apologies for the video glitch in the middle of the video, the audio is unaffected though. #synth #roland #rompler Here's an electro track made with a Roland JV-880 as well as other synths https://youtu.be/KSA2-xZM3Co If you'd like to support this channel with a one-off purchase, please check out our affordably priced music: https://synthandsundry.bandcamp.com

[manusupra]

Advance Family... #gba #gameboy #nintendo #gameboyadvance #gameboyadvancesp #gameboyadvancemicro #retrogaming #vintage #jv #videogame #gaming https://www.instagram.com/p/B4kSsUiBfeV/?igshid=pjcovq2wt4qq

[jvfurniture]

Vintage Vibes: How to Blend Classic and Contemporary Furniture

In the ever-evolving world of interior design, the blend of vintage and contemporary furniture creates a timelessly chic aesthetic. At JV Furniture, we're passionate about helping you master this art of mixing old and new to achieve a home that's both unique and stylish. Here's how you can create a space that marries the charm of the past with the sleekness of the present.

1. Start with a Neutral Base

Begin by setting a neutral backdrop. Neutral walls and floors provide a canvas that allows both vintage and contemporary pieces to stand out without clashing. Think soft greys, warm whites, or muted beiges.

2. Choose a Focal Vintage Piece

Select a statement vintage piece as your starting point. It could be an ornate mirror, a classic chandelier, or an antique armchair. This piece will act as a centerpiece around which you can design the rest of the room.

3. Balance with Contemporary Lines

Pair your vintage focal point with contemporary furniture that features clean, simple lines. The sleekness of modern design balances the ornate details of vintage pieces, creating a harmonious look.

4. Mix Materials and Textures

Combine different materials and textures to add depth. Pair the rich wood of a vintage table with the smooth metal of contemporary chairs. Mix plush fabrics with minimalist accessories for a layered effect.

5. Play with Color Accents

Use color to tie the room together. Select a few accent colors that complement both your vintage and contemporary pieces. Cushions, rugs, or artwork are great ways to incorporate these colors throughout the space.

6. Don't Overcrowd

Remember, less is often more. Give each piece room to breathe. This not only prevents the space from feeling cluttered but also allows each item to make its own statement.

7. Blend Lighting Styles

Lighting can dramatically change the feel of a room. Combine a modern floor lamp with a vintage table lamp to add warmth and character.

8. Incorporate Personal Touches

Finally, add personal items like family photos, books, or collections. These elements make the space uniquely yours and give the room a lived-in feel that complements both vintage and contemporary styles.

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At JV Furniture, we offer a diverse collection that caters to your unique taste in blending the old with the new. Whether you're looking for that perfect vintage gem or a sleek modern piece to complete your space, visit us at jvfurniture.co.uk and start creating a home that's as unique as you are.

[globalatomic]

John Varvatos CBGB Limited Edition T-shirt - Washed Black

CA$178.00

Channel the audacious punk rock energy crafted into the newly released CBGB Tee. This short-sleeve, raw edge t-shirt showcases an appreciation of the iconic legendary club. Complemented by a unique spray dyed and wash technique, the tee gains a distinct texture, enhancing its raw edge finish. Pair it with slim fit jeans and timeless JV leather jacket for a look of daring edge.

100% Organic Cotton

Vintage Black

Crewneck

Raw edges

Model is wearing size M

[metalkilltheking]

My Hi-Fi! It's all about the quality of sound

#akai #vintagejvc #vintageakai #vintagehifi #vintagespeakers #vintage #jvs #hifi

[dailykatrina]

PART I

The primary purpose of this blog was to publish the picture of my friend Elīna wearing a red beret. First time we interacted was at our coursmates movie night at his place far away in 2010. We didn’t like each other first. I don’t remember how exactly we became friends (as I don’t remember what was the movie we watched that night. Was it a film by Coen brothers? Or something from Clint Eastwood?). Nevertheless, something more important became evident soon after - we were about to embark on a journey of imagination together and enhance the everyday in such ways that no object would be left as ordinary. 

PART II

This blog became abandoned. It is true. I moved to France in 2016 and it took me about 3 years to fully settle. I’ve traveled a lot during this time as well. There was a lot happening and a lot of effort was put into learning new language, taking care of seemingly never-ending bureaucratic procedures and money earning activities. I didn’t post much during that time and there’s another reason for that. I’ve got a 35mm vintage Canon camera and it didn’t feel right to mix those well framed shots with random everydayness from my phone camera on the same platform. 

I’ve posted some photo series on flickr. There’s only two (or three) that I personally find succesfull and feel the importance of. 

PART III

I went to a film and photo developement workshop as a present for my 29th birthday. It’s been a dream coming true. I knew that I want to experiment with developement and to be more in charge of how sensitive my photography is. However, I continued to develop at an external film lab. My Paris apartment was too small to welcome a darkroom.

PART IV

I got my first real* camera when I was 16 or 17. It was a digital Canon EOS 400. I can still summon the feelings of pride about the marketing speech I gave to my father (in order for him to sponsor this lavish desire). I loved taking black and white and low iso pictures with that camera and a few years later I even expanded my lens collection. However, I loved shooting with the basic 18-55mm lens the most. As much as I almost always shoot on Program with my vintage Canon still today. 

I had a blog on Blogspot. It was called '1000 airplanes on the roof'. That blog was important. I erased it. I even erased the archive of the images I had on my computer from that time. But it was important and there are images I can still recall in my memory that don’t exist in any other realm anymore. JV was following that blog. He asked me to have one of the pictures in full size and I shared it with him. It’s the only picture left from that blog that has a materiality today. 

*I had a point and shoot sony pocket camera before, but my mother lost it a year after I got it. 

PART V

I’ve started using instagram when I moved to France as a way to communicate with my friends. A place for everyday randomness and stunning French landscapes. I love taking pictures with my phone. I am not a farmer of a photography who willfully cultivates and constructs his images. I am a hunter. Or rather, outside of these binaries, I'm just perceptive and sensitive towards objects/elements existing outside of me and them falling into certain ‘images’ that pierce me. I feel like things are cinematographic. And I love to archive things. You know by now that I can be manic and a compulsive eraser, having an inner fight between a desire to share and a desire to keep to myself. Not that there ever was an ambition - even after years of (intermittently occasional but ever-present) shooting, I still considered painting as my primary artistic interest. Painting would be the one I would give my time to. Not photography. 

PART VI 

I am not a painter today. I even developed a fear of a brush. It makes me feel anxious. My last painting teacher criticized my way of being too detail oriented (lack of confidence) and I was vulnerable to that. It made me cry. I am hoping to come back to it one day but for now I need more time for the expression to ripen. 

Things happened photography wise, things that I've already mentioned and some other things that I haven't. I got a Ricoh pocket camera (my digital Canon died of being unused a long time ago already). I realized that I lack literacy, awareness and vocabulary about my own pictorial expressions. I realized that most of my photography is not well served by the small digital format (thanks JV!). I realized that I don’t want my pictures (don’t mind about the phone pictures but not the 135 and MF) to be a scroll through in the middle of the instagram garbage and adds (thanks SF!). I realized that I want the images I capture to be tangible (Thanks to both JV and SF). 

PART VII

It took time to understand what kind of enlarger woud fit my needs best. I didn’t think I’ll get there on my own. But like with everything - persistence and diligence are likely to take you anywhere you want to get to. 

The everyday is important and I am still trying to capture it. Elīna is not here with me but our friendship is a shared book where we both keep writing our experiences. It might not have an immediate visuality. But we'll talk about it and make it alive once we're together. Life continues to be beautiful and ugly and final in both of these expressions as always. I snap this and that and post it here and there. The medium for that is inconstant. 

Sometimes I get into the habit of sharing 

and sometimes 

I get out of it. 

But this place, 

for now 

it’s a place 

of memories 

of an era.