Lightbird is the new art installation on Minerva, part of the AAUW Community Events series. The students have loved it, especially after they were told not to expect a “lesson” from the art. They simply explore it, and report their reflections. I do notice, however, that as the exhibit involves animating the avatar to sit on an egg, students have had a tendency to reflect on reproduction and freedom.
Maya Paris: Lightbird exhibit on Minerva
To begin, you have the option of wearing a bird mask and wings, which does get you into the mood of the thing. You should also change the time of day to sunset or midnight (I prefer midnight). To do this, go to >>world >>environment settings. Then, click on the sign at the entrance for your free mask and wings, follow the instructions on the notecard, and just participate in the art.
You may feel a little silly, sitting on an egg with a beak on your nose, but that’s part of the fun; you have to let go of your self-image a little before you can freely participate. You can also fly high in the air and dance with dandelion clocks. There are a lot of sounds to listen to, words fly by, and the whole thing is very provocative.
Maya Paris’ exhibit will continue on Minerva until June 20. All are welcome; if this is the first time you have visited, see the help page. If you’re an experienced virtual worlds explorer, just click the link:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Minerva/74/80/29
Dancing in the dark with a dandelion
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