Reflection

Shadow art is such a straight forward concept. Ironically though, it takes real talent to think outside of the box and create brilliant works of shadow art. I am talking about shadow artists like Kumi Yamashita of course. It is clear that shadow art is not my calling in life but, it was fun trying something new and exploring the creative process. Shadow art is an important contribution to the artistic field because there is nothing else like it. It incorporates lights and objects that we may see every day and think nothing of.  

Kumi Yamashita makes shadow art look so much easier than it actually is! Imitating her work Fragments  was not easy. It will always be a mystery to me how she made each face so novel and unique.

Coming up with something completely new with shadows was a bit of a challenge. The most difficult part was trying to create the shadows at first. I really tried to be original but nothing I made looked like an animal or a silhouette. So, I settled for using cut-outs of objects. My incense burner/shadow bowl turned out pretty decent I believe. If I had to do it again, I would try to make colored shadows using colored saran rap. 

Looking back, I realized I did experience some flow making my incense burner. It wasn't obvious at first. Flow is sometimes about challenging yourself and trying new things, even if they don't always work out. I originally just created a shadow bowl without any incense. I realized that wasn't challenging myself enough so I added my own personal touch of incense. I was proud of myself for trying new things, although I ended up starting a fire. Challenging your creative side is all about trial and error because you get immediate feedback. 

I thought everybody in our class did a great job with this project. Below are just a few of my favorites.

 I really loved Katie's Fusion Cupcakes! They looked so delicious (maybe because it was close to lunch time). I have also never seen anything like them or even thought to have used marshmallows instead of icing. Not only is that creative and so cute, but a great trick to remember if I ever forget to buy frosting for my cupcakes. Thanks Katie. 

Dominique's picture of the Golden Gate bridge from the boat was so beautiful. I only wish you posted a few more scenic pictures from your trip. Some Kansans (like myself) don't get to see beautiful ocean pictures like that often. 

Katie V. did a project called "What makes you happy?" I thought that was awesome because you incorporated other people. Everyone has a different answer to that question and I'm sure you made some people's days by going out of your way to talk to them. It is a beautiful and timeless gesture.