https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-wdNrbi8Kmo
For this project I was drawn to the theme of “documentation” and keeping record of moments or processes in our lives. In a fast paced, constant world- the act of slowing down to enjoy quiet moments is something I believe is key we preserve. Documenting such things in the form of video was important to me to ensure that the mundane moments of life are highlighted. I wanted to capture myself doing something I love in real time. Often when I film myself painting I choose to speed up the video, creating timelapses and short form content for others. With the goal of capturing their attention and gaining views on social media. This project created an opportunity to slow down and do something I love, while documenting it in a way that I hope gives insight into the patient, long, slow, process of painting. This is hopefully communicated in the still shots of my hand holding the brush, or by the parts where my full body is seen within the context of my desk and where I spend hours creating each day. Additionally, this video highlights only the beginning of a painting that I anticipate will take many more hours. The lack of satisfaction of a finished piece is something I find interesting in a world where we are consistently satisfied while consuming video content. The slower pace of the video and the absent dopamine hit once watching a complete painting come to reality gives insight into the reality of art creating and the world we live in. On a slow Saturday afternoon I don’t find myself rushing to finish art- instead I am reminded of the peace found in slowing down and analog hobbies where I am creating with my hands and without pressure of deadlines or other people. I used simple transitions and different angles to show all aspects of the painting session. Myself, the paint, the space, the painting- are all seen in hopes of the viewer getting a comprehensive understanding of what was going on. I used apps like Canva to add text and iMovie to edit video clips.
Ultimately, I hope this simple video of an afternoon painting inspires others to slow down and create for themselves. Without pressure, rush, or the world demanding something new and satisfying.
