Sunday 25 August 2013

swan lake - cafe del mar


I have always found the elegance of ballet dancers to be inspiring; their movements spirited. When I first heard this modern remix of the classic Swan Lake, it became my new favourite piece of music! The percussion instruments are what make it most striking, as if it were designed to be performed as a tribal dance. Don't you think?

Above is a painted illustration I did of Natalie Portman's character in Black Swan. I hope you like it!

Saturday 24 August 2013

a bit of bavaria

Hallo!

Having recently returned from a break in the Bavarian capital of Munich, I have here a few snapshots of life in and around the city - or at least I thought I did, until I noticed I was being architecturally driven! Enjoy:
The roof structure for the Olympic Stadium stretches out over the surrounding open spaces like a tent. This is appealing as it encourages events to take place under the partially-sheltered canopy. While I was there, a man started performing on what I can only call a hybrid between a unicycle and stilts


Looking up within the courtyard at part of the New Town Hall, built in the late 19th Century in a Gothic Revival style

This glazed wall is located at one of the many S-bahn stations in the city

Outdoor seating in courtyards - always a great use of public space

What I noticed most of all is how the citizens embraced their culture; it was not uncommon to see locals drinking in biergartens at lunchtime and walking around in their traditional Bavarian dress, of dirndl and lederhosen.

During my short stay I caught a glimpse of what is to be found in this city where tradition compliments modernity. There is always more to be explored...!

Wednesday 7 August 2013

"and from his pain he knew he was not dead"

I don't know a lot about Ernest Hemingway, but am intrigued to learn more after reading The Old Man and the Sea. The tale is narrated by an old, but strong, fisherman who takes us through a long tough journey of perseverance, and, staying true to the tale's character, leads us to an ending that at first seems unjust, but resonates with our recognition of life's deliberate determination of always getting its way.
"and from his pain he knew he was not dead"
We can all relate to the fate of the old man, and know his pain. This particular quote resonated with me quite strongly; the association of being alive with being able to feel.

Saturday 3 August 2013

the month of ramadan

Everywhere the world over, Muslims have been observing the month of Ramadan and the fasting that comes with it. The practice of fasting teaches you to be more patient, and opens your eyes to what you take for granted every day. What we are left with is our strength of character, and a chance to work out what changes we can make to improve the small part of the world around us. 


How can you reach out to those around you?