PROMPT 1: LESLIE LASKEY

Please watch 47 Views of 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.

 

Watching the Leslie Laskey documentary, I realized how differently I create and engage in art. Laskey is able to completely and without restraint explore any spark of interest. He’s not restricted with the thoughts and opinions of other people; he just wants to explore all the possibilities that interest him. I don’t I have ever created something in my life (be it music, art, or even food) without thinking about how someone else will see/feel about it. Even in school, I feel constrained by marking criteria to make something that matches what the teacher is looking for, not my interpretation of the assignments.

Although I will admit, the older I get the less I care about what others think; it does get exhausting to be constantly thinking about others. Because of this, I have been enjoying music a lot more these past few years.

 

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

I live right by the ocean, so every time I walk down to the beach I feel like I’m in the presence of something powerful. It’s just
so big, and open, and the natural sounds that come from it have a relaxing feeling to me. It makes me feel small, but not it a bad way; more in awe.

 

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.

 

There is a highway between my house and the ocean, so instead of hearing any water sounds or seagull cries, I only hear cars. Campbell River is also a very windy place, so if you stop moving at any point you can probably hear the trees rustle. Also, I always hear ambulance or firefighter sirens at least once a day.

 

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

 People use the term “free time” as a magical, mystical event that will only happen if you plan it out and schedule a time for it. The thing is, is that every moment you’re not doing something? That could be the free time you’re looking for. You have to ‘steal’ those moments in life, even if they’re only a few minutes. Sometimes they’re even hours long, but you end up putting them off for some reason or another. I am super guilty of doing this, as I am perpetually tired and rarely have motivation/energy do things that I would like to do.

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

I think it’s good to keep in mind how free and happy Laskey is in his life. To me, he’s showing that you don’t have to create something that is already planned out perfectly; you’re allowed and encouraged to explore what you create as you create it. Also, to look around your daily life and find inspiration in anything.