Andi F.

[collegeblog-humanities]

Manifest: Embracing the Power of Connections/Humanity

The chief cultural/artistic value that I want to promote in my manifesto is the importance and power of human connection, which can be through family or friends. Family is a fundamental institution that shapes our lives and provides a sense of belonging, love, and support. In a world where individualism is often celebrated, I believe it is crucial to recognize and celebrate the value of family relationships. Through various forms of art and cultural artifacts, I intend to highlight the significance of family connections and promote a sense of belonging and unity. Throughout various forms of art and cultural artifacts, the theme and love of family are prominently displayed. From music about family to architectural interiors of homes, these artifacts demonstrate the deep-rooted significance of family connections.

Many of my blogs represent this idea. In my post about veteran memorials, the concept of family often plays a significant role. These memorials honor the sacrifices and bravery of individuals who have served their country, highlighting the impact of their service on their families. The sense of unity and support within families is a common theme in these memorials, underscoring the deep connections that exist within the family unit.

Photography has been a powerful medium for capturing the essence of family connections. Family portraits and candid moments captured through photography serve as a reminder of the love, joy, and support that families provide. These photos often evoke a sense of nostalgia and gratitude for the presence of family in our lives. My blog “photographer’s eye” speaks for exactly this. In this fast world, we take many things for granted. The pictures that I chose to capture in that post were also about family, love and connection. In this post “Through Grandma’s eyes” is black and white photo capturing the reflection of a grandmother's face in the window. Her wise and wrinkled eyes reflect a lifetime of experiences and wisdom. This photo represents the importance of cherishing our loved ones and the wisdom they impart. “On the other hand, "The World Outside" is a shot of a little girl looking out of a rain-streaked window as she observes the world outside. This photo symbolizes curiosity, innocence, and the desire to explore beyond the confines of our immediate surroundings.

My musical theme “Family” emphasizes what numerous musicians have explored with the theme of family in their songs, capturing the complexities and emotions that come with familial relationships. Whether it's celebrating the love and support of family members or reflecting on the challenges and conflicts within families, music has the power to evoke strong emotions and convey the importance of family connections.

In addition, I chose to describe my friend’s home in my blog “architectural interiors”. The design and architecture of homes often reflect the values and connections within a family. The layout and decor of a home can symbolize the comfort, warmth, and unity that families provide. Architectural interiors serve as a physical representation of the love and togetherness that defines family relationships or deep relationships/connections with friends.

In our “abstract week”, I chose the “untitled” painting by Sohrab Sepheri. I interpreted and defined his abstract art as a simple form that suggest a humble painting of his hometown, which just like all the other topics mentioned so far, represents and stands for family, connection, and one’s roots.

I oppose the idea that family connections are not important in today's society. In a fast-paced world where personal achievement and success are often prioritized, the traditional values and importance of family can be overlooked. It is my belief that family connections should be cherished and celebrated, as they provide a sense of identity and emotional support.

Through various art forms and cultural artifacts, the theme of connection, friends and family is depicted and celebrated. The importance and power of family relationships resonate across music, veteran memorials, photos, architectural interiors, and paintings. By recognizing and promoting the significance of family connections, we can foster a sense of belonging, unity, and love within our communities and society. The power of family and connection is a fundamental aspect of human experience, and it deserves to be valued and cherished.

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Ekphrasis:

The visual piece I have chosen is “Starry Night” by Vincent van Gogh. This iconic painting has spoken to me, with its swirling, vibrant colors and dream-like quality. I have decided to write a poem derived from this work, aiming to capture the ethereal and mesmerizing atmosphere that Van Gogh has created.

Starry Night

The night sky dances above, swirls of blue and gold

Stars shimmering in the heavens, infused with a celestial glow while the village sleeps below

Muted and still the moon casts its soft light

Upon the landscape, hushed and tranquil

The cypress tree stands tall

Reaching towards the heavens

Its dark silhouette a contrast.

To the vibrant, swirling colors above

The wind whispers softly

Through the landscape, alive and wild

Carrying with it the secrets

Of the magical, starry night.

I chose to preserve the essential details of “Starry Night,” such as the swirling colors, the sleepy village, and the cypress tree standing stoically in the midst of the cosmic chaos. The poem attempts to capture the mood and feeling of the image by using vivid, flowing language to evoke the sense of wonder and awe that van Gogh’s painting conveys. I have also tried to replicate the original visual details in my words and style by using descriptive language to paint a picture of the serene, otherworldly scene. In my ekphrasis, I aim to bring a new understanding to the original piece by delving into the feelings and emotions that the painting evokes. By using poetry, I hope to evoke a sense of beauty and wonder that complements Van Gogh’s creation, bringing a deeper emotional resonance to the viewer's experience.

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Tragedy Scripted and Staged: Hamlet Scene

One of the most intriguing and iconic scenes in Shakespeare's "Hamlet" is Act 3, Scene 1, also known as the "To be or not to be" soliloquy. This scene is a turning point in the play, where Hamlet reflects on the nature of life and death, and wrestles with the idea of taking his own life. The language Shakespeare uses in this soliloquy is deeply philosophical and introspective, as Hamlet grapples with existential questions. The turns of phrase are rich with metaphor and poetic imagery, as Hamlet ponders whether it is nobler to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, or to take arms against a sea of troubles and end them. In this scene, Shakespeare creates Hamlet as a complex and multi-faceted character. He is portrayed as a deeply introspective and contemplative young man, who is struggling with the weight of responsibility and the burden of grief. Through this soliloquy, Hamlet reveals his inner turmoil and the depths of his despair, while also displaying his sharp intellect and eloquence. The language and imagery used in this soliloquy bring the character of Hamlet to life in a profound and mesmerizing way, allowing the audience to empathize with his inner conflict. When watching the staging of this scene, it is crucial to pay attention to how the interpretation aligns with one's own understanding of the character of Hamlet. The portrayal of Hamlet can vary greatly, with some interpretations emphasizing his indecisiveness and melancholy, while others depict him as brilliantly cunning and calculating. This scene can reveal new insights into the character of Hamlet, depending on how it is performed. The stage can be used in a variety of ways to bring this scene to life. It could be set in a dark and brooding atmosphere, reflecting the somber mood of the soliloquy, or it could be staged in a more abstract and symbolic manner, using visual elements to convey the inner workings of Hamlet's mind. The use of lighting, sound, and props can all play a crucial role in creating the ambiance and conveying the emotional depth of the scene. As for the interpretation of Hamlet himself, the actor's portrayal can offer a unique perspective on the character. A skilled actor can infuse the character with layers of complexity, bringing out different aspects of Hamlet's personality and inner struggles. Whether he is depicted as a tormented and conflicted soul, or a cunning and enigmatic figure, the interpretation of Hamlet in this scene can shed light on the character's psyche and motivations. I chose this scene because it is a pivotal moment in the play, where Hamlet reaches a critical juncture in his internal struggle. The "To be or not to be" soliloquy is a profound meditation on life and death, and it offers a window into the innermost thoughts and emotions of one of Shakespeare's most enigmatic characters. The language, imagery, and depth of emotion in this scene make it a compelling and rich focal point for analysis and interpretation.

[collegeblog-humanities]

Anatomy of a Scene:

"Being John Malkovich" is a surreal, darkly humorous film directed by Spike Jonze and written by Charlie Kaufman. The movie follows an unemployed puppeteer named Craig Schwartz who discovers a portal into the mind of actor John Malkovich. As Craig becomes increasingly obsessed with this strange phenomenon, he begins to manipulate Malkovich's actions and experiences. The film is paced in a way that demands the audience's attention, with a mix of dry humor, absurdity, and introspective moments that keep viewers engaged. The scenes are crafted with meticulous detail, contributing to the overall comedic and dramatic effect of the movie. The technical details, such as the use of close-up shots to emphasize the characters' emotions and the surreal lighting and set design, add to the film's unique atmosphere and contribute to the overall strange and whimsical tone. The movie's pacing and technical details help to create a memorable and thought-provoking viewing experience.

"Arrival" is a science fiction film directed by Denis Villeneuve, based on the short story "Story of Your Life" by Ted Chiang. The story follows linguist Louise Banks, who is recruited by the military to communicate with mysterious alien visitors who have landed on Earth. One scene that stands out in "Arrival" is the moment when Louise first enters the alien spacecraft. The way in which this scene is structured is particularly effective, as it is filled with tension and anticipation. The shots are carefully set up to highlight the enormity and otherworldliness of the spacecraft, with dim lighting and sprawling, intricate alien symbols adorning the walls. The editing of the sequence is designed to build suspense, with slow, deliberate cuts that make the audience feel Louise's trepidation as she slowly makes her way through the unknown environment. The direction and acting in this scene are also crucial to its impact, as Amy Adams portrays Louise's mixture of fear, curiosity, and determination with great skill. The ambience, set, and lighting all contribute to the overall effect of the scene, creating a sense of unease and wonder that mirrors the broader themes of the film. This scene joins meaningfully to the broader message of the movie by highlighting the themes of communication, understanding, and the fear of the unknown that run throughout the story. Overall, "Arrival" is a thought-provoking and visually stunning film that uses its technical details and expertly crafted scenes to create a captivating and memorable viewing experience.

[collegeblog-humanities]

Photographer's Eye 

In a world that moves at an increasingly fast pace, we often overlook the beauty surrounding us. The constant presence of smartphones allows us to capture these overlooked moments and appreciate the small details that make life more meaningful. "Windows of Life" aims to offer a glimpse into the everyday beauty that is often taken for granted.

"Morning Serenity" : A shot of the rising sun peaking through the palm trees, casting a warm glow on a still, peaceful morning. This photo represents the calmness and serenity that can be found at the start of each day.

"Nature's Artistry" : A close-up of rain droplets on a windowpane, creating intricate patterns that resemble a unique work of art. This photo reminds us to appreciate the beauty of nature even in the most unexpected places.

"Urban Reflections" : A cityscape reflected on the glass exterior of a skyscraper. The juxtaposition of the shiny glass against the gritty cityscape serves as a reminder to find beauty even in the midst of a bustling urban environment.

"Through Grandma's Eyes": A black and white photo capturing the reflection of a grandmother's face in the window. Her wise and wrinkled eyes reflect a lifetime of experiences and wisdom. This photo represents the importance of cherishing our loved ones and the wisdom they impart.

"The World Outside" : A shot of a little girl looking out of a rain-streaked window as she observes the world outside. This photo symbolizes curiosity, innocence, and the desire to explore beyond the confines of our immediate surroundings.

In conclusion, "Windows of Life" emphasizes the importance of finding beauty in everyday moments. Through the lens of a smartphone, we have the power to capture and share these moments, allowing others to appreciate the simple yet profound joys of life. By placing these diverse images within a unifying theme, this collection showcases the versatility and creativity of smartphone photography, reminding us that beauty can be found everywhere if we take the time to observe and appreciate it.

[collegeblog-humanities]

Musical Theme: FAMILY

Playlist:

1. Rock: - Elton John - "Circle of Life": A soaring anthem depicting the circle of familial bonds, reminding us that we are all interconnected in the vast tapestry of existence.

2. Jazz:- Louis Armstrong - "What a Wonderful World": Armstrong's timeless voice celebrates the beauty and innocence of familial love, reminding us to appreciate the simple joys that surround us.

3. Hip Hop/Rap: - Common - "I Used to Love H.E.R.": In this poignant rap, Common pays homage to family, using a metaphorical love story to reflect on the importance of nurturing and protecting our roots.

4. Country: - Johnny Cash - "I Walk The Line": Cash's heartfelt country ballad signifies loyalty and commitment to family values, reminding us to prioritize and embrace our loved ones' undying support.

Family is a concept that holds immense significance across all cultures and is celebrated in various forms and genres of music. From heartwarming ballads to catchy pop tunes, the importance of family is a recurring theme that resonates with listeners from all walks of life. In country music, for example, the importance of family is often highlighted through heartfelt storytelling and introspective lyrics. Songs like "Love Without End, Amen" by George Strait and "My Front Porch Looking In" by Lonestar paint a vivid picture of the unconditional love and support that family can provide. These songs emphasize the notion that family is a constant source of comfort and stability, offering a sanctuary in a chaotic world. Similarly, in hip-hop and rap, artists often pay homage to their families and the struggles they have faced. Tracks like "Dear Mama" by Tupac Shakur and "Family Feud" by Jay-Z reflect on the hardships their families have endured and how they have served as a driving force in their lives. These songs shed light on the resilience and determination that family instills, inspiring listeners to value their own familial bonds.Even in genres like rock and pop, family is a significant theme. Songs like "Hey Jude" by The Beatles and "Wind Beneath My Wings" by Bette Midler capture the essence of familial love, emphasizing the role family plays as a source of encouragement and inspiration. These songs provide a reminder that family members are there to lift each other up during times of joy and sorrow.

In the vast realm of music, each genre carries its own unique identity and storytelling capabilities. Across four distinct genres, Elton John's "Circle of Life," Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World," Common's "I Used to Love H.E.R.," and Johnny Cash's "I Walk The Line" each possess individual narratives that reflect the profound meaning of family bonds. Elton John's "Circle of Life" is a triumphant rock anthem from the soundtrack of the iconic movie "The Lion King." The song resonates with audiences through its soaring melodies and powerful lyrics, reminding us of our interconnectedness in the vast tapestry of existence. Depicting the circle of familial bonds, the song emphasizes the importance of family, highlighting how every action we take affects those around us. Through John's powerful voice, the song serves as a reminder to cherish and appreciate the intricate relationships in our lives. Moving into the jazz genre, Louis Armstrong's classic "What a Wonderful World" offers a timeless celebration of the beauty and innocence of familial love. Armstrong's soulful voice resonates with warmth and joy as he reflects on the simple pleasures that surround us. The song serves as a gentle reminder to take a step back from the chaos of life and appreciate the love and support our families provide. Through his lyrics, Armstrong encourages gratitude for the beauty that exists in the world, making it a perfect soundtrack for embracing familial bonds. In the realm of hip hop and rap, Common's "I Used to Love H.E.R." takes a unique approach to the exploration of family roots. Common uses a metaphorical love story, where "H.E.R." refers to hip hop culture itself, to reflect on the importance of nurturing and protecting our past and present. Through his poignant rap, Common recognizes the deep connection between family and heritage, emphasizing the need to honor, preserve, and uplift our roots. "I Used to Love H.E.R." is a powerful reminder to never forget the foundation that our families provide and the importance of passing down our history to future generations. Lastly, Johnny Cash's heartfelt country ballad, "I Walk The Line," signifies loyalty and commitment to family values. Cash's raw and emotive voice captures the essence of unwavering dedication to the ones we love. The song represents a promise to stay true to our familial responsibilities and embrace the unspoken support that our loved ones provide. Cash's lyrics inspire us to prioritize and celebrate the love and commitment that our families offer throughout our lives. In conclusion, these four songs from distinct genres –"Circle of Life" by Elton John, "What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong, "I Used to Love H.E.R." by Common, and "I Walk The Line" by Johnny Cash – each encompass profound meanings associated with family bonds. Through the vibrant melodies, powerful vocals, and heartfelt lyrics, these songs reflect the significance of cherishing and valuing the familial connections that shape our lives. By expressing gratitude, acknowledging heritage, and staying loyal to our loved ones, we can create a kaleidoscope of harmonious family relationships on the soundtrack of our lives.

[collegeblog-humanities]

Plotting:

The alarm clock blared, jolting me out of a peaceful slumber. It was a gloomy Monday morning, and my body just wanted to rest. Reluctantly, I dragged myself out of bed and stumbled towards the kitchen, craving the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee. As I sipped the hot beverage, the bitter taste seemed to seep into my soul, signaling the start of another mundane day. However, fate had a different plan in store for me.

I rushed through my morning routine. As I reached the bus stop, I noticed a peculiar sight - a stray dog limping in pain. Something within me stirred, urging me to help. Without hesitation, I approached the whimpering canine and gently examined its paw. To my surprise, a small shard of glass had embedded itself, causing the animal immense discomfort.

Fueled by determination, I carefully extracted it, relieved to witness the relief that washed over the dog’s face. Wordlessly, it looked into my eyes, as if expressing its gratitude. Overwhelmed with emotion, I found myself drawn to the dog's vulnerability and felt an instant connection.

Abandoning thoughts of work and timetable, I decided to embark on an unexpected adventure. I beckoned the dog to follow, and it eagerly complied. Together, we ventured through streets and alleys, exploring the unseen corners of the city. The once-gray sky seemed brighter, as if mirroring the newfound joy within my heart. He was a loyal companion I had discovered in the most unexpected manner.

As twilight descended, bathing the world in golden hues, I found myself standing outside a neglected animal shelter. The miles we had traversed had led us to a place where the dog could find safety and care. With a heavy yet grateful heart, I bid farewell to my newfound friend, knowing that our brief encounter had changed the course of my life forever. From that day onwards, I resolved to fill my mundane existence with meaningful connections and acts of compassion, inspired by the loyalty of a stray dog.

[collegeblog-humanities]

Poetic License: The Raven by Edgar Allen Poe

The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe is a poem of grief, loss, and the relentless pursuit of answers in the face of darkness. It uses metaphors and symbols. At its core, The Raven revolves around a central image and serves as a symbol, representing the speaker's descent into madness and his inability to escape the sorrow that plagues his soul. Here, the raven becomes a metaphorical embodiment of the narrator's torturous thoughts and emotions, forever haunting him.

One of the key terms from the "Terms to Remember" list that applies to The Raven is stanza. The poem is structured into eighteen stanzas, each containing six lines. This organized structure adds to the aesthetic appeal of the poem, allowing for a rhythmic flow and enhancing the overall impact. Another term that comes to mind is consonance, which in the second stanza, the narrator describes himself as "weak and weary." The repeated "e" and "w" sounds create a sense of weariness that resonates with the reader. Additionally, the poem employs the use of a first-person narrator. The unnamed narrator, who is suffering from a recent loss, is consumed by grief and tormented by a series of unanswered questions. The internal struggle of the narrator is effectively conveyed through his dialogues with the raven, adding to the emotional depth and creating an engaging narrative. The Raven is rich in symbolism and metaphors. For example, "the night's plutonian shore" is a metaphorical description of a dark, desolate space, conjuring images of grief and despair. The "Pallas" reference not only symbolizes wisdom but also serves as a reminder of the narrator's incapability to find solace or enlightenment.

In conclusion, Poe's The Raven is a poetic masterpiece that delves into the complexities of human emotion, grief, and the unrelenting search for answers. The poem's aesthetic appeal lies in its skilled use of imagery, metaphors, and symbols. With the incorporation of three appropriate terms from the "Terms to Remember" list – stanza, consonance, and first-person narrator – this essay provides an accurate analysis of The Raven, highlighting its central image, metaphors, and the poignant use of consonance.

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The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe | Poetry Foundation

Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered, weak and weary,

[collegeblog-humanities]

Architectural interiors

I chose to discuss my friend’s home. She lives in a very beautiful, big house that shares an open concept space. When you walk in, you can see right through the entire house all the way to the patio/pool/water area. The way it’s structured and the way the rooms are divided makes sense to me. First, you have a big area which also consists of a designated dining room area to the left. To the right, you see the bathroom straight ahead, while the office space is to the left of it and the extra guest room to the right of it. As you keep walking through the dining room section, you will see a second bathroom in the middle with 2 more rooms to the left and right of it. The dining room leads also into the big living room and kitchen area. Many windows and high ceilings keep the entire home bright and welcoming. Ultimately, you will see the master bed/bath in the back of this building, which also has a lot of daylight and lets you oversee the canal.

The next space I chose is my own home. Compared to my friend’s interior, our home is a little smaller. It lacks brightness due to not having as many windows. Also, it doesn’t have high ceilings which would make our home seem less spacious than my friend’s. Overall, I would prefer to live in my friend’s house. Not just is hers more inviting, but the bright colors of the kitchen cabinets, as well as the flooring and the wall colors make her home look a lot more inviting, open, friendly, and bright. Unfortunately, the lack of bigger windows combined with dark kitchen cabinets and darker floors makes our home look mire outdates and less spacious than it is.

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Public Monument: Four Mile Cove

The sculpture I chose is a famous Veteran Memorial monument in our area at the Four Mile Cove. It contains of multiple memorials designed to recognize and honor those of have served our country through the U.S. Armed Forces.

The sculpture shows the well-known Iwo Jima flag raisers. During the 1945 battle of Iwo Jima, the Marines of the 5th Division advancing up a hill, and then planted and raised a flag to mark their capture of the peak. This sculpture captured and expressed this moment and its purpose very well. It is very detailed, even the face expressions are visible. This monument symbolizes American honor, courage, and commitment. This statue is pretty large and high, which makes it seem even more powerful. This particular monument is just a part of the entire memorial, which shows the respect people show for their military. I believe our area is full of patriotic people, who honor our military, our fallen soldiers and our veterans.

Overall, this statue is a beautiful monument that is full round because it is completed in a full 3dimensional form and is not attached to a flat background (unlike relief). This big sculpture fits perfectly into the set of memorials, including the star shaped monument that honors our Iraq heroes and our monument full of dog tags of fallen soldiers that were killed in action. I believe these type of monuments are very powerful and emotional but also crucial to remember the ultimate sacrifice many have made for our country and our freedom. They should not be forgotten, no matter how old the historic event was, and their memory should live on through our history and memorials such as the one at Four Mile Cove.

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The painting I chose is called “Untitled” by Sohrab Sepehri.Sohrab Sepehri | Untitled | The Metropolitan Museum of Art (metmuseum.org) This artwork is a small painting that was painted in basic watercolors, using humble shades such as brown, beige, and blue. He uses what I assume to be a very wide brush to create broad lines. He doesn’t create the appearance of a three-dimensional painting but rather focusses on simplicity. Due to Mr. Sepehri being Iranian, the interpretation for this piece could be simply suggested to be a painting of his hometown Kashan. Personally, I could see how it could represent a landscape. If I trust my imagination, I can see different rocks shaping the mountains in the background and on the sides, as well as multiple bodies of water, maybe rivers crossing along the canvas. One could be a river and the other one could even be looked at as the sky because the shade of blue is a little bit darker than the other one. Overall, I think the painting represents earthiness. Brown usually stands for natural and neutral perspectives, which triggers a feeling of warmth and safe emotions. Blue represents the sky and the sea, which can also symbolize freedom, inspiration, and imagination – maybe even security. I personally believe the message the painter tried to express through this painting is to always stay connected to home and your roots. No matter where you are, it’s always important to remember where you come from, who your true friends and family are and stay humble and connected to nature.

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Sohrab Sepehri | Untitled | The Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The first painting that came to my mind was Albrecht Durer’s “praying hands”. Albrecht Durer was a German painter, printmaker, and theorist of the German Renaissance. He was born in Nuremberg, German as the son of a successful goldsmith. I was also born and raised in Nuremberg, Germany, Durer’s home, so I crossed paths with his art and work many times in school and museums there. His praying hands are a pen and ink drawing made in the year 1508. In my opinion, this painting is a very humble, yet powerful painting that can be interpreted in many ways.

It symbolizes obedience, submission, sincerity, repentance, and respect regarding higher power – overall a gesture of prayer. To me, it also shows thanks and request, and can also express hope, praise, and gratitude, which is something I can identify my perspective with.

Looking at the way this artwork was made, it is very detailed and accurate, almost perfect considering how hard it is to draw hands. I believe the reason I was drawn to this painting when I first saw it is because the first impression/look at this art is more of a sad one/ melancholy. It makes you take a second look and take the time to try and understand the meaning of it. As mentioned before, it represents submission and hope, but depending on your point of view, it can also be thought of as gratitude.

The drawing used to be a part of a study for hands of an apostle, which full picture supposed to cover the Hellar Altarpiece of the triptych in Frankfurt, which was destroyed by a fire in 1729, which us why the apostle’s head whose hands these are is missing. From the religious perspective, many would associate the praying hands with Christianity, but to me, it expresses a lot more than that. This piece of art is today stored at the Albertina Museum in Vienna, Austria.

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Introduction

Hello everyone! My name is Andi - I'm a wife and a mother of 2 amazing children. I was born and raised in Germany, but I've been living in the US for almost 5 years now. I'm taking this class to finish up my AA, so this term will be my last one here at FSW, then I'll be transferring to pursue my Bachelor's in Finance. I'm currently a stay at home mom solely focusing on school and raising the tiny humans beings, but prior to this chapter of my life I've worked in the administrative field for the majority of time. As a critical thinker with a creative mind, I'm curious to see what this course has to offer. This is my first time blogging, so I'm also very excited to see this blog grow into something bigger by the end of this term.

I hope everyone has a successful semester and enjoys this class!