PROMPT 1: LESLIE LASKEY

1. Looking back at the “bones of summer” how have you engaged or created art? If you haven’t engaged or created art, please describe why.

During this unique and trying summer I found that engaging in art, nature and creativity acted as a safe place to steer the mind away from the unpredictable conditions that come with living through a pandemic. Personally I my artistic outlet is music, and with so much time trying to stay indoors I took this as an opportunity to learn many of my favourite songs on piano, organ, synth, and vocals (Songs by: Queen, Billy Joel, Elton John, Boston, Toto, Alan Parsons project, Steely Dan, The Doors, and more). The inspiration I gained from learning the music that gives me goose bumps lead me to pursue another longtime goal of mine; writing original music and lyrics. With more time to reflect I began writing lyrics about anything that sparked inspiration; The current state of the world, personal experience, friends and family, philosophy, and complete fiction and nonsense. However I was longing for collaboration in these lonely times, so my band mates and I would meet in our local park to jam and work out original song ideas and come up with lyrics together. After playing in music in the park for passer by’s we had a socially distanced concert in a cabin neighbourhood called Matlock. We performed many of the songs I had worked to learn at the beginning of summer and had the opportunity to perform a few original tunes as well. . This concert was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the art we had been working together to create together.

2. What things, if any, surround you that you consider powerful?

The most powerful thing that surrounds me is my friends and family. I have been very fortunate to have grown up in a very loving family, encouraging me to take part in the arts sports and everything around the sun. Having their support unconditionally is what allows me to live freely and independently while knowing I can always reach out for help if I feel unsure or anxious. Allowing me to explore these opportunities with their support allowed me to develop a wealth of experience that I value greatly. Similarly I have a support system in my friends that I know always have my back and that I deeply trust. The second most powerful thing that surrounds me is nature. I am very often awe stuck by the beauty and power in nature, from the stars to mountains, to oceans and storms. I find it provokes the same powerful emotions I feel while engaging in music and art.

3. Over the next couple of days, take note of the dominant sounds in areas that you consistently walk. What are the sounds you notice most of all? Be specific.

When I wake up in the morning the first sounds I often hear are:                              The birds chirping.

The sounds of construction. (drills, Hammers, Machines)

My mom’s students singing classical music in the living room. (Most often high female voices)

I hear the sound of my dog Dobbie’s paws on the hard wood floor.

I hear the creak of the wooden stairs as I go downstairs.

I hear the sounds of the wind and the leaves on the pavement.

Before I go to bed I hear the stairs creak as my Dad run up the stairs two at a time. Followed by my dog who slowly creaks his way up the stairs. Finally my mom creaks up the stairs at a normal pace one stair a a time.

I hear my mom and dad brush their teeth

I hear the sound of my ceiling fan spinning.

I hear my standing fan

I hear the corner of my poster rubbing against the wall

The sound of cars passing by my window.

The sound of the wind and the leaves on the pavement.

4. How do you relate to the phrase “free time only works if you steal it?”

It made me think a lot about the term “free time”, at first I thought it was something to be desired. We all want free time! That means we get to relax right? However when I have free time, I’m always looking to fill it with an experience, or a one of by taking part in one of my passions. When I find myself without work or plans, I will go rock climbing, or slacklineing or play music. I think this is my way of trying to steal free time. When I don’t pursue my passions with my free time I will often fall victim to social media and youtube rabbit holes that leave me feeling like I’ve wasted time and energy.

5. Do you have any other takeaways from the film?

One of the other takeaways I had from the film was to try and let your creativity flow. The way that Leslie Laskey talks about his creative processes very inspiring and applicable to the way I feel when making music. The way he finds such beauty in the burnt remains of the furniture of his neighbour was inspiring and showed to me that there is artistic potential in things you might never expect. In my creative process I have found that when I am in the flow and not overthinking I tend to create the work I am most proud of. Laskey’s process reminded me of the importance of this free flowing artistic state.