Cracking On...

'Call Centres' is finished and posted on SoundCloud and has already led me onto the next stage.  'Call Centres' describes the depressive effect of waiting in a telephone queue with added monologue from a friend who used to work in one. The over all sound is argumentative as Vivaldi's 'Spring' is upbeat whilst the rest of the samples are the opposite.  This was intentional because it is exactly what happens when one is unfortunate enough to experience a DWP phone queue.


The progression from this will be more about the frustration and anger felt whilst going through the processing system.  An angle I might use is how 'Spring' was used in the classic film 'Soylent Green'. I have always found it amusing and ironic that DWP chose the music that accompanied the death scene!


 'Call Centres' also inspired a piece of artwork, a collage based on letters from DWP. Since the addition of the text to my installation piece I have become more interested in using text in works. I like the patterns it forms whether it is readable or not; printed or hand written. I am concentrating on my own writing, letters etc. at the moment but am looking forward to working with text written in other languages. Some languages are organic and flowing to look at whilst others are harsher.

http://www.listal.com/viewimage/637941

Paddy Hartley - Genius

Very interesting visit from Paddy Hartley yesterday. He did an amazing amount of research for his work; a lesson to be learned from this!


Paddy's work can be seen here:


http://www.paddyhartley.com/


http://www.projectfacade.com/


http://www.patrickianhartley.com/




I emailed him today thanking him for showing us his work, answering our questions etc. Also asked him if he used sound in is exhibitions and if not, would he be interested? The lovely man replied straightaway - he doesn't use sound but wouldn't rule it out, especially for fashion videos.  


My plan for sound now is to finish off the call centre track and start immediately on something for the above.


http://www.paddyhartley.com/

patrickianhartley.com

Project Facade

Progress?

E-mailed Martin Griffiths and asked for his opinion on the First Light audio. Uploaded it to Soundcloud along with 'Kettle'. 


Had response regarding sessions at Sheltered Housing in Cleethorpes and Grimsby; there are already several people teaching card making but there seems to be more interest in art classes. As long as my easel will fit into my ridiculously small car then this should be a rewarding experience.  Having previously taught art at entry level I am well prepared regarding lesson content, handouts, materials needed etc. I can also use my teaching experience to produce lesson plans based on inclusive learning and covering all levels of ability. Am really looking forward to this!

Various

Tried to record the actual message left by the robot on DWP's answer-phone; it wouldn't record! Interesting!


Played the First Light exhibition video and recorded the soundtrack in Audacity.  It sounds even weirder when watching the data rather than the video footage.  Toned down the voices, coughs etc. so it easier on the ear at high volume. Am quite excited about this field recording although not sure what I will use it for yet.  Maybe I will contact Martin Griffiths and see if he has any suggestions...

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=10150339214158807

Call Centres

OK, got the recording, courtesy of Ky. It makes uncomfortable listening which is perfect for my piece.


Am considering distorting the key of 'Spring' by a minuscule amount or even changing the major to minor at certain points in order to stress the anxiety of listening to it. Think I have everything I need now; Tally Ho!

Next Day

Well, the food was gorgeous and I slept really well... until about 1300hrs.  Must have needed it.


Kettle track is coming along nicely but the DWP phone queue piece still has a long way to go. I really need the sample from the other perspective...

Anxiety Strikes Again

Forgive me if there are lots of typo's, can't find my glasses.


Thought I was getting somewhere but am becoming increasingly bonkers.


Been cooking for a while, hopefully a proper meal and a good night's sleep will sort it. Had to email tutors earlier cos I don't think I will make it in tomorrow.


Cooking pork steaks, mustard mash, carrots, cabbage, cauliflower and processed peas all in proper gravy.  


Comfort food?