Sunday, April 22, 2012

A Little Late But Don't Be Afraid of the Dark



So, last night we finally got around to watching Guillermo del Toro's remake and despite the poor reviews, I must say that I really enjoyed this movie.  The spooky setting was simply delicious--the house was completely and appropriately dark and gorgeous.    I loved the bits with the little girl flash-lighting her way down to the foot of the bed and although much was predictable in this film, it was, at the same time, satisfyingly old-fashioned and just what the doctor ordered.  I simply adored the little creatures--maybe it's because I'm a sculptor but these little dark and nasty faeries were a joy to behold.  The creators ensured that each of these little guys had a distinctive and original appearance which just added to their overall malevolent charm.  Yep, I'll watch it again.

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

So, I have resigned from my volunteer position as moderator of the sculpture gallery on Deviant Art.  I'm feeling a bit sad and more than a little at loss after doing this for so long but I think it was for the best.  One can get burned out doing these kinds of things and then one knows that it is time for another to step in to fill the void.  I am hopeful that someone will come forward in order to keep the spirit of sculpture alive at that very fun art site.  As I said in my "Adieu" note, "Sculptors are amazing people.  You are devotees of one of the most ancient art forms in the history of humankind but your imaginations and talents know no bounds and you each have made this art form uniquely your own.  I admire all of you for your allegiance to sculpture;  for keeping it alive in the midst of a heavily digital and computerized art environment."  And this is also true for all of us in the Halloween Home Haunt and Prop Industry (and I capitalize these words because I think they should be.)  We create magic where there was none before--on Halloween Eve, a simple front yard is transformed into a haunting world that speaks of mystery and imagination extraordinaire.  No computers required, no Hollywood special effects...just some people that love a little bit of darkness and are willing to work in their garages and basements at all hours to bring forth and share,  on one night of the year, a bit of their own souls and creativity for simple fun.  That's it.  Kudos to all of you, my Halloween friends!