Wherever you are in SL and whomever you are – your experience is highly individual – it is yours alone. No one experiences this environment precisely as you do, and, of course, the same can be said of our presence in the physical world. Our perception is uniquely ours and ours alone. So how does one communicate that experience, share that experience? How does one reach out and share a vision of how we see this world?
This was the chosen task of photographic artist, Leila (leilanairobi) and her current exhibition “We Stand Together” at The Art Factory in the Chelsea Sim is a series of works that addresses the fraught topic of individual and shared experience. The very act of illustrating a sole melancholic presence in many of Leila’s works in the Art Factory is a trigger for those of us who have experienced similar situations in SL. An environment where we are alone in a vast world – paradoxically a shared experience that links us with others. We do indeed stand together.
In Leila’s own words:
“Photography evokes the presence of reality. The reality is convincing, even in SL, because the hand of the photographer in framing the photograph is unseen. My photography explores the relationships between people, places and time. They are not a record of place or journey but are images of decisive moments, snapshots, in a flux of change”.
Leila’s grand opening was a fun and memorable affair with the artist giving a grateful shout out to live music musicians Kaklick and Joe Paravane who regaled attendees with both original and cover songs. Another shout out to DJ Meg Miggings who had attendees jiving well into the night. Leila would also like to acknowledge the support of Chelsea staff, Shyla, Elena and A Fiya for their efforts in ensuring the gallery opening was the success it was.
The exhibition is available for viewing at the following location:
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Lanestris/73/13/104
