There was no deployment on the Main (SLS) channel on Tuesday, November 28th, leaving servers running simulator version 17#17.11.11.510664.
On Wednesday, November 29th, the three RC channels should be updated with a new server maintenance package 17#17.11.17.510835, comprising:
IMs sent to an off-line resident will only be sent to verified email addresses.
Internal Changes to Outgoing Emails.
E-mail Verification
The RC server deployment sees a further step in the Lab’s plan to reduce the volume of e-mail traffic it generates by only sending e-mails to those addresses Second Life users have actually verified as being valid with Linden Lab (see Making Email From Second Life (More) Reliable).
With this deployment, and if you have not verified your preferred SL-related e-mail address with Linden Lab, you will no longer receive off-line IMs as e-mails sent from users on any regions using the RC channels. Further, once this change is deployed to the Main (SLS) channel, you will no longer receive off-line IMs as e-mails at all until such time as you have verified your SL-related e-mail address with the Lab.
So, if you haven’t already done so, ad wish to continue receiving off-line IMs as e-mails from wherever they originate in-world, make sure you have verified the e-mail address recorded in your viewer with Linden Lab. Should you require detailed instructions on how to do this, please refer to my blog post Important: verifying your e-mail address with Second life.
SL Viewer
There have been no SL viewer updates thus far, leaving the current viewer pipelines as follows:
Current Release version 5.0.8.329115, dated September 22, promoted October 13 – formerly the “Moonshine” Maintenance RC.
Release channel cohorts:
Martini Maintenance RC viewer, version 5.0.9.329906 November 17th.
Alex Ivy 64-bit viewer, version 5.1.0.510354, November 2nd (still dated Sept 5th on the wiki page).
Voice RC viewer, version 5.0.8.328552, October 20 (still dated Sept 1 on the wiki page).
Project viewers:
Project Render Viewer version 5.1.0.510604, dated November 14th
The Argument: Liquid, Sommer, Tim Timaru, Anke Zamani and Mistero Hifeng
Opening on Tuesday, November 28th 2017 is The Argument, a collaborative exhibition featuring eighteen artists, taking place at Serena Imagine Arts Centre (the exhibition space is south of the landing point across the water).
“It is the second competition I have run,” the centre’s curator, Vita Theas, informed me. “Its a way for me to give a little prize to the artists, to thank them for letting me share their art with visitors here. The theme is about how many unjust things are in the world today, and how many feelings of hostility are festering among our global neighbours.”
The eighteen participating artists are Aldiladeisogni, Aniwitt, Birdguru, Dilligaf, Lilarya, Maura77, o0Crystal0o, Lin Carlucci, Mistero Hifeng, Scotsgraymouser Janus, Daco Monday, Blip Mumfizz, Liquid Sommer, Theda Tammas, Otekah Timaru, Tim Timaru, Nino Vichan, and Anke Zamani. Each presents a single piece on the subject, either as 2D or 3D art.
Given this, the pieces on offer take the core subject from a wide variety of angles and offer a broad range of interpretations. There is a focus on the complexities of personal relationships – the most direct form of argument – are represented through portrayals of domestic disagreements, the consequences of a rushed marriage, the question of who we really are within a relationship and the masks we wear. But broader “arguments”, those brought about by racial discrimination / genocide, and war are also tackled.
It’s an eclectic, diverse collection of images and pieces, each one offering a unique perspective on the subject matter, making this an interesting exhibition.
The Argument: Otekah Timaru, Dilligraf and Lin Carlucci
As well as participating in The Argument, Italian artist Aldiladeisogni – a favourite of mine, to be honest – is the subject of a second exhibition at Serena Imagine, located just across the water from the group display (take the covered wooden bridge and cross the island between the two display areas). Six of his extraordinary avatar studies are on display, one offering a direct link to The Argument, being a sister piece to his submission in that exhibit.
The island between the two exhibition offer a route to a reproduction of the French Château de Chenonceau, built by Louis-Jean-Marie de Bourbon (Cedric Hansome) and donated to Vita so it could live on in Second Life following his departure. This is a marvellous period build, and one not to be missed.
Cherishville, designed by Lam Erin, currently sporting a winter setting, has been openedfor around two weeks for visitors to enjoy and photograph. Sharing a Homestead region with a private residence, Cherishville forms an L-shaped parcel running along the north and east sides of the region, which is surrounded by tall, snow-covered mountains but separated from them by frozen water.
There is no enforced landing point – although one has been set; as this delivers visitors on a snow-clad hill, I’ve offered an alternative land mark which – unless the landing point is enforced – will deliver you to the little parade of establishments on the east side of the region. It’s a charming, almost period setting, vehicles from the 1930s sitting on a snow-covered road, a steam train rolling slowly towards the local station.
Looking at this little parade, with its cafés and shops, I couldn’t help but be put in mind of Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life – particularly when seeing the setting in black-and-white – to the point where I wouldn’t have been surprised to see James Stewart as George Bailey running along the little street shouting, “Mary! Mary!” In colour, the setting is cleverly themed, with red, white and green window frames, gables and roof-tops matching the colours of the season.
Follow the road northwards and the buildings give way to a country road, bordered by fences on either side. Here the land is blanketed in deeper snow, trees frosted and white, dog roses offering clouds of red colour between tree trunks. A pick-up truck – of a later period than the vehicles at the village – sits on the road, which leads the way to a frozen pond. Here, skates can be obtained from a sign board. But when skating, do mind the lantern posts set out across the ice! Steps on the far side of the pond offer a way up to a band stands converted into an open-sided snug, comfortable armchairs ranged before a roaring fire.
The land above and behind the little row of shops – reached via a set of snowy steps rising from a pair of gabled gates or via snow-covered slopes – presents a broad open area, again deep in snow, with just a sprinkling of silver birch trees and pale bushes. A delightful little bar sits to one side, offering mulled wine and other hot drinks.
Further steps climb up to a further small plateau, where sits a house with – rather surprisingly – the entrance and exit to / from a subway station. The house is perhaps a little rough around the edges, however, it is furnished in something of a shabby-chic manner, a look which fits well with the aged look of the interior décor. Open to the public, one half of the house offers a small photo studio awaiting use – and it’s not the only place suited to photography. The little hamlet, the bandstand, the train – all offer backdrops for photographers to take avatar-centric shots, while the landscape itself invites photography. Those who do take pictures are asked to consider submitting to the Cherishville Flickr group.
Word is already spreading about Cherishville – and I’d like to thank both Shakespeare and Stavros Gracemount for alerting me to it being open so Caitlyn and I could visit – as such, it is proving popular with visitors. However, given it is only open to the public for a brief period, a visit sooner rather than later is recommended.
Just as a final point, a line of hills towards the middle of the region, running west to east and north to south to form another L, separate Cherishville from the private parcel on the region. This is protected by a security orb to maintain the owner’s privacy, so should you opt to visit, it would perhaps be best to treat the hills as the boundary without climbing them, and help the neighbours keep their privacy.
It’s time to highlight another week of storytelling in Voice by the staff and volunteers at the Seanchai Library. As always, all times SLT, and events are held at the Library’s home at Holly Kai Park, unless otherwise indicated.
Sunday, November 26th, 13:30: Tea-Time with Dickens
With the opening of The Dickens Project (see my preview here), Bryn Taleweaver, Kayden Oconnell and Caledonia Skytower present two items from the works of Charles Dickens: The Signal-Man and selections from Oliver Twist.
First published as part of the Mugby Junction collection in 1866, The Signal-Man had its roots in a an actual event of the time, the Clayton Tunnel railway crash of 1861. This is used as the source for a series of tragic events which take place in, or near a railway tunnel overseen by a lonely signalman, who is visited by a stranger – the story’s narrator.
This first event, related by the signalman to the visitor, is followed by a second, both of them – so the signalman insists – preceded by the appearance of a ghost. His visitor is sceptical of the whole idea that ghosts are somehow involved, and believes the signalman is stressed and needs rest. However, on his third visit to the cutting at the mouth of the tunnel, he discovers something which perhaps alters his belief in ghosts and premonitions…
Few can be unfamiliar with Oliver Twist, the story of an orphan boy, who runs away from the workhouse only to be taken in by a den of thieves. Whilst perhaps now better known through film and stage play, when first published in serial form between 1837 and 1839, this story shocked readers with its portrayal of childhood innocence beset by evil, and its depiction of the exploitation of children, be it in the workhouse or on the city’s streets. With its rich gathering of characters – Fagin, the artful Dodger, the menacing Bill Sikes and the prostitute Nancy – Oliver Twist was a new kind of fiction, combining elements of Gothic romance and melodrama with a scathing indictment of a cruel society, all pervaded by an unforgettable sense of threat and mystery.
Join Seanchai Library at the Christmas Past Docks at The Dickens Project– look for the teleport panel at the main Landing Point.
Monday, November 27th 19:00: The Alien Dark
Gyro Muggins reads Diana G. Gallagher’s one science-fiction novel.
Out of the darkness of interstellar space…
The ahsin bey, a race of catlike beings determined to expand their territory, launch six vessels into deep space to search for an uninhabited world suitable for colonization.
Tahl d’jehn commands the Dan tahlni on a decades long mission to explore the Chai-te system. Studies show that Chai-te’s planets are rich in the resource the ahsin bey need, but will their signal reach their home world in time to launch the colony ship. And what is Tahl to make of the startling discovery of a dead civilization on Chai-te Three?
Tuesday, November 28th, 19:00: Stories of Inspiration
Caledonia Skytower reads selections by Isaac Bashevis Singer, the Polish-born Jewish writer in Yiddish, who was awarded the 1978 Nobel Prize in Literature.
Wednesday, November 29th, 19:00: Tom Hanks’ Uncommon Type
He is regarded as one of the most talented actors of modern times. However, he is also a talented writer of short stories. In Uncommon Type, he presents 17 stories heart-warming stories, including:
The tale of a gentle Eastern European immigrant arriving in New York City after his family and his life have been torn apart by his country’s civil war.
The story of the man who loves 10-pin bowling – to the point where he cannot help but bowl the perfect game, time after time, bringing him to the attention of a sporting TV network
an account of an eccentric billionaire and his faithful executive assistant venture into America looking for acquisitions and discover a down and out motel, romance, and a bit of real life.
Will any of these form part of an evening of selections from Hanks’ book? Join Kayden Oconnell and find out! Also presented in Kitely (hop://grid.kitely.com:8002/Seanchai/144/129/29).
Thursday, November 30th 19:00: In Time for Christmas
At a time when interest in the Christmas holiday was waning, Charles Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol and inspired the world. But now, history is changing, and the book is never written. When the Council for Temporal Studies asks time travelers Simon and Elizabeth Cross to “save Christmas,” they think he’s joking. But it’s anything but a laughing matter. Simon and Elizabeth must go back to 1843 London and convince Dickens to write his endearing story, or the Christmas holiday we all know and love will cease to be–forever.
With Shandon Loring. Also presented in Kitely (hop://grid.kitely.com:8002/Seanchai/108/609/1528).
The Dickens Project
Now in its fifth year, Seanchai Library presents The Dickens Project for Christmas 2017, now open through until December 30th.
Celebrating the work of one of the masters of 19th Century literature, whose humanistic voice continues to be a relevant one in our everyday culture.
Featuring a period setting, performance art, music and – of course – readings from A Christmas Carol, Dickens’ seminal tale for the time of year – and for all of us. Programme schedule.
Please check with the Seanchai Library’s blog for updates and for additions or changes to the week’s schedule.
The featured charity for August and September is Little Kids Rock, transforming lives by restoring, expanding, and innovating music education in schools.
Respect is the title selected for the 2017 2LEI art recognition of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, marked on November 25th. Open now through until the end of 2017, this is one of the most involved art installations I’ve visited in Second Life, presenting the work of some 71 visual and music artists either directly or in supporting roles, with no fewer than fifteen primary art display areas.
While marking International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the subject for the installation casts a wider net for Respect – including as it does respect for women, children, individuals, sexual orientation, race, self, and those around us. This makes for a very involved series of installations which requires time – possibly over more than one visit – to fully take in and appreciate. To help with this there is a range of events scheduled through the rest of the year, details of which can be found at the 2Lei blog.
With so many displays and levels, coupled with the quality of art on display, a comprehensive review of the installation would be extremely long-winded; similarly, picking individual elements for consideration is equally difficult. What can be said is that there is a rich mix of individual focus on the broader topics noted above, some of which are deeply thought-provoking, others are visually impressive while other may appear to come at their subject from a slightly unexpected angle and one or two, frankly, might confuse or perhaps seem more a generalisation than a focus.
The ground level features the works of fifteen artists, with 2D and 3D pieces ranged around a watery setting under a bright sun, together with the landing point, presentation theatre and teleport boards for reaching the fourteen sky platforms for the installation. Artists on this level include Rebeca Bashly, Dido Haas, Mistero Hifeng, Desy Magic, Ciottolina Xue, to name just a few.
The teleport kiosks provide access to 14 sky platforms, each one featuring the work of an individual arts or a collaborative team. These are – in order of ascent through the levels: Theda Tammas, JadeYu Fhang, Pale Illusion, Laug Indigo and Stardove Spirit, Aneli Abeyanti, Patrick Moya, Nino Vichan, Daco Monday, Black Label Exhibitions Corner, Nevereux, Pol Jarvinen, TerraMerhyem, Red Bikcin and Mona Byte.
Each level is of a fixed size, which the artists have been able to use as they choose, arranged so that visitors arrive on one platform (with teleport options for returning to the ground), move through the display area and out to a second teleport options for returning to the ground or continuing up to the next level. As with the ground level, there are small 2Lei boxes alongside the artist name boards which will offer a folder with the artist’s biography and – perhaps – an outline / description of the work they are displaying.
As noted, there is a lot to see here – and I admit that in viewing the sky platforms, I was particularly drawn to Nino Vichan’s installation, and the Black Label Exhibitions Corner piece. The latter, largely focusing on GlitterPrincess Destiny’s images. This is perhaps the most involved, and shows a considerable amount of expression on the subjects in an environment that is semi-interactive, requires exploration and offers a lot to see.
In all, a thought-provoking series of exhibits, rich in interpretation and presentation.
In July I was able to break the news that the University of Western Australia would be retaining a presence in Second Life, and that in recognition of this, was launching a special UWA machinima challenge, Art of the Artists, sponsored by LaPiscean Liberty of SLArtist and Singh Albatros and The Writers Centre, Singapore. On offer is a combined prize pool of L$350,000, including two special prizes.
The closing date from entries is December 31st, 2017, and videos for the competition are being hosted at the SLArtist website. Given there is just over a month to go before submissions close, I thought I’d take a look at some of the entries to date – with no personal preference implied – and run through a reminder of the main elements of the contest. However, as the SLArtist website utilises raw tags (which are considered a no-no by Automattic on WordPress.com hosted blogs), I’m embedding the videos as uploaded by the artists to YouTube.
Isabelle Cheren’s Before The World Was Made, featuring the work of artists Noke Yuitza, Otcoc Resident & Phillysmaybe Resident, Peli Dieterle, Igor Ballyhoo, and Rosie Dimanovic
In short, entrants may choose individual pieces of art or a collection around which to weave a story. However, the art must be a relatively significant part of the story, and not merely something glimpsed in passing, and films to be considered for any of the prizes must not be any longer than 8 minutes in duration (longer films can be submitted but will not be eligible for any of the prizes).
Selected art for a film may be filmed in its current location. however, films do not need to be restricted to these locations, as long as the art is the focus of the story being told. Entrants may contact artists about filming their works in other locations and / or collaborating with them on a film.
The prizes run from L$75,000 for the first prize, through to five prizes of L$7,000 each for the films judged in 6th through 10th positions. In Addition, there are two special prizes:
L$50,000 UWA Art of the Artists Special Prize: this will be awarded by Jayjay Zifanwe on behalf of the University of Western Australia
L$50,000 The Merlion Special Prize: this will be awarded by Singh Albatros on behalf of The Writer’s Centre, Singapore to the film which – in the view of the judge – best represents the The Merlion, the national personification of Singapore.
The 10 main prize winners will be selected by a selected panel of judges. Details of the full panel will be available on the UWA website soon. Each of the special prize winners will be judged independently to the judging panel, and as such, may be eligible for a prize in the general classification as well.
Art which can be used in films submitted to the Challenge can be found in the following locations:
The UWA Main Gallery – the primary exhibition space for art at UWA, including entrants to the most recent challenge, Transformations, which is expected to remain up at least through the end of this year.
The UWA Main region – this is the home of the iconic Winthrop Hall clock tower, Somerville outdoor cinema, the Moreton Bay Figs, and Sunken Garden. Some of the art from the UWA regions which will be closing will be relocated to platforms above this region. The relocation work is expected to be completed by the end of July 2017.
The Merlion – celebrating Singapore’s iconic Merlion sculpture, the full-sized version is hosted by the Monash University in Second Life. The smaller version at te UWA offers information on Merlion Portal Project concerning cultural, literary and artistic significance of the Merlion. It also provides a landmark to the full size installation.
Gerhard Helmut’s 3rd Eye Open. Artworks featured are “The Pineal Gland” by artist Ub Yifu, “He Holds Her Heart” by LunaEnigma – Luna Cobain, “Skeleton” by JointVenture Resident and “The Merlion” by Rebecca Bashly.
Additional Requirements:
Completed films should be uploaded, preferably YouTube or Vimeo, and a link to the film sent to Jayjay Zifanwe and LaPiscean Liberty.
Entries should acknowledge all art featured and acknowledge / have the authorisation for any music used.
Rights to all films should be held by the creator, but by entering the challenge permission is given for films to be shown on the UWA Blog, the Slartist Website and to be played on UWA lands.
The ten winners of the general prizes will be adjudicated by a panel of 5 judges. The special prize winners will be selected by Jayjay Zifanwe (UWA Special Prize) and Singh Albatros (The Writer’s Centre prize).
If you have questions, want to discuss anything, or add to the prize pool, please contact Jayjay Zifanwe.
