The Artist's RPG / Components: Connector

CONNECTOR

INTEGRATORS

SOLITUDE - REACH - PATHWAYS

We are not alone and that, in itself, should be taken as a sign that we are not supposed to act as though we are. There is more to connect with. To get lost in and find ourselves in. To bring out our best and to be enhanced by theirs. To make more of what we already are.

“Why be isolated when you could, instead, join in delightful company?”

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There is only so much that can be done when you stand alone. Only so many thoughts and feelings to have. And in some cases, that is okay. Tolerable. Some would even say preferable. However, there are cases where, rather than having a sense of wholeness, there is a sense of lack. And that lack can be debilitating, crippling, and even unbearably painful.

We are not alone and that, in itself, should be taken as a sign that we are not supposed to act as though we are. There is more to connect with. To get lost in and find ourselves in. To bring out our best and to be enhanced by theirs. To make more of what we already are.

Recognizing this may be the first step, mustering courage the second. It is an undeniable risk to become vulnerable enough to let others into our space or to go into others’ spaces. Who knows what awaits! But it might be a risk worth taking after all.

Not just anything would do, however. Just as you can be charged, you can also be drained. Just as you can be enriched, you can also be exploited. And just as you can be completed, you can also be broken. And some things aren’t so easily reparable.

Nevertheless, how wondrous when those who are meant to be together have been bridged. And more than that, formed bonds. Ones that beat the odds, surpass distance, and cause you to believe in destiny.

It's Simple, Anywhere, with Simple Tools in Hand

Alright, there’s a whole bunch of stuff to take in, sort out, and ultimately solve. Whether that’s personal issues or work matters. These days, though, you can pretty much work from anywhere, with various tools accessible to you, so there’s no valid excuse to neglect your duties or make progress with your projects.

If you have a neat and comfortable spot at home, that’s fantastic. But if you move around frequently or could use a change of scenery, work can come with you. If you have a laptop or merely a tablet with additional accessories (keyboard, mouse, etc.), you can easily get plenty done while out and about (given that there aren't too many or grave distractions). However, beware of completely trading all of your opportunities for required rest and whatnot - those are essential!

For me, with how hectic everything is, how much is already on my plate, and how stressed and overwhelmed I can be, I prefer to keep my toolkit simple. Choosing applications with a simple interface that make their use simple. Yet, still efficient and effective for what I do. For example, there is…

For handling information:

Google Docs, Sheets, Slides.

For proofreading/writing revisions:

NaturalReaders.

For making quick pictures (and even videos):

Canva.

For making quick videos:

Capcut.

For generating AI images:

Leonardo.Ai

For generating AI BGM:

Suno.Ai

This is, like, the bare minimum. Like, if free time is nowhere to be found and you must make the most of what little you have, as someone who makes content, they are okay to start with. They’ll let you put together what you must without much hassle. How nice it ends up being is on you. And if you are serious about getting into art, being an artist and making artworks, you should strive to have space to instead handle and master tools that let you get more personal, particular, and peculiar with your craft. (These are user-friendly, some to a fault.)

For ideas:

Lastly, I prefer NOT to use AI tools, such as the (in)famous ChatGPT, for research, as I cannot trust them for that, nor for fabricating my own material, because of numerous reasons, but they are undeniably handy for wording and ‘brainstorming’ (ask for lists with many options to pick from and for suggestions to consider), as well as coding (if you ever have to do some of that too). Or just for those instances when you already know the answer, but cannot bring yourself to type it out, and it is not mandatory that you do. Get it to spell it out for you, check if it is correct, and make adjustments (if due) before passing it over.

Again, much more advanced and sophisticated tools exist if you’d rather get artsy, but if all you can afford is to make your work presentable, these will do. So they’re recommendable solutions. 

Even in unideal conditions, tempting as it may be, don't skip practicing critical and creative thinking, though! (People are increasingly becoming dumber, lacking appropriate brain exercise and allowing brain rust and rot. Let's not join in that!)

World, You Can Do Better...

Fundamentally, I want and need a world that is based on truth and structured toward legitimate progress for humanity and humankind. I cannot exist in a world that is held in place by ignorance and deceit while accommodating and enabling vices above virtues. That is a world that kills my spirit and I will not play a part in my own undoing.

The Artist's RPG / Components: Globe

GLOBE

INTEGRATORS

WORLD - SOCIETY - LIFESTYLE

There are structures, rules, norms, and more that make up what this place is made of. Perhaps exclusively so. Limits, too, that we may be tempted to cross and venture out of. That we could or could not get past, regardless of our wishes. You are seeing how it is all shaped and, whether you realize it or not, it is shaping you.

“Is all you have seen all there is? Aliens exist! And hopefully, heroes too.”

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We all start somewhere. We are born or come into a place we haven’t been in before, or do not have, for one reason or another, a recollection of. It is unfamiliar, so we look around and step forward, gradually familiarizing ourselves with it.

There are structures, rules, norms, and more that make up what this place is made of. Perhaps exclusively so. Limits, too, that we may be tempted to cross and venture out of. That we could or could not get past, regardless of our wishes. You are seeing how it is all shaped and, whether you realize it or not, it is shaping you.

As you move through, within, or around, meeting characters, making choices, facing challenges, and overcoming obstacles, you are a part of it and further become more of it. Ironically, even as you try to be anything but it, because even that differentiation is forged from that place. You still came from it. And possibly, if you decide, you could go elsewhere. And again, it could leave a lasting impression.

Traveling across the globe expands your horizons as you get to witness and experience different ways of existing and co-existing. Agreeable or not, questionable or not, recommendable or not. And let’s not forget the souvenirs you could collect. It is enriching.

Yet, as varied and complete a globe may be, there are more out there, far away. Their configuration could be similar, and allow life, or so beyond what we know that it is difficult to imagine, and still allow life. What is it like over there? 

Could it be conceived based on what is here? Maybe not, but we can wonder and wander.

What Even Is All This?

So you’ve stepped into a world that’s pretty much a mess. Even worse, you blinked and, suddenly, it became. It seems impossible to keep up, let alone begin to figure out what it is all about. Pick your battles, though, because you cannot possibly cover everything at once.

Technology keeps advancing, at a rate that seems to quicken exponentially. Or maybe merely the releases do. Whatever the case, the world is changing, and that can work in your favor or against you. And you must keep up at least to the extent that it won’t render you obsolete.

But wait! Where is your childlike eagerness to wander off? To be curious about all that the world has to offer? Well, it may still be there, somewhere within you, but with the amount of responsibilities that you currently have, you cannot simply yield to that yearning.

The good news is that, although there is indeed much to get into and grasp, there is also much available that is ready for you to try and utilize. Paths have been paved, mysteries have been solved, cures have been found, monsters have been defeated, and, overall, plenty has already been illuminated.

The problem now, however, is how much of that gets buried under the mess. Misinformation and disinformation run rampant, along with bots, and all the spammers and scammers around that couldn’t give less of a damn. You might have to dig, discern, and become a curator. If not, rely on a trustworthy curator who skillfully does this. But even then, get involved. It is important for you to learn to distinguish between what is true and what is false, what is valuable and what is worthless, and what you just cannot really tell.

 AI is practically everywhere, forcing you to recognize that, yes, you have already stepped into a ‘futuristic’ era, as if straight out of a science-fiction movie. And this can be terrifying, to say the least. Photos, sounds, videos, all can be fake, fabrications posing as real humans. Algorithms feeding you content are… questionable. Connected smart devices and robots, pretty much normalized. Money still rules the world and a dangerously high percentage of people are morally bankrupt. Not only that, many even seem to lack the foresight (or care) to see that they’re leading to their own destruction. In that sense, the future doesn’t look too bright.

It can be fun to play with all these modern tools, but at what cost? Many of them weren’t made ethically, disregarding the harm they caused while being built and the harm they can cause you and your surroundings while in use. Until it affects them. And that’s just something to keep in mind so you don’t naively believe that everyone and everything has your best interests at heart. In fact, only a few do.

That said, this is indeed an astonishing time to be alive. Perhaps you are old enough to remember life unplugged. So you get to see the before and after. Quite a significant transition in history, if you ask me. It could be worse; you could be in a period completely devoid of humanity and human progress. And we are not, not yet.

Ascendant Overview

In the case of the Ascendant, it primarily affects your outer personality and initial approach to life. The Ascendant, just as it marks the zodiac point rising on the eastern horizon at the moment of birth, represents the threshold between the inner self and the outer world. Essentially, the Ascendant stands for the default mode of operating in given situations. And it is in and through it that adaptability, presence, and personal style develop.

What are Planetary Placements?

For context and more of relevance, please read about The Zodiac.

Planetary Placements

There is more to your astrological composition than what your Sun sign has to say. Typically, we only hear about our Sun sign, as if it is the be-all and end-all. And while the Sun, indeed, has a prominent role, there is still much else to factor into the equation. Numerous stars and placements make up what is called a Birth Chart.

Planets and more might be working with signs that are anywhere from very favorable to very unfavorable to their nature. However, interesting and even valuable traits can manifest from any combination.

For context and more of relevance, please read about The Zodiac.

Dumb & Awful

People think I'm arrogant and have a superiority complex when I snap at them for not being/doing better. But it's like... I'm dumb and awful AF, how can you be EVEN MORE DUMB AND AWFUL THAN ME, OMFG?!
Are we this DOOMED? 😫

What are The Odds?

Sometimes I don't know what's crazier, something extraordinarily exceptional happening by mere chance or by thorough planning...

Low Key Still Here

I have been far from in the mood of showing up in the flesh, and it’s looking like much of this year will continue to keep me in that state, but I’d rather not miss out on having a couple of ‘proofs of existence’ and markers of the passage of life, capturing what currently is and what later has been.

So, tired as I was (and still am), I pushed myself to do it, to go through the strenuous task of taking more selfies (hate to take them, love to have them). And also get to say Hi again!

I’m here, I’m around. Stressed, overwhelmed, exhausted, but still on this unbelievable ride that’s making me learn whether I like it or not. Much to process, but ignorance isn’t an option I’d take or recommend. Being a dummy? In this economy?! Can’t afford that!

Hello from your sleep-deprived student, dorm-room neighbor, self-proclaimed culture critic…

Reasoning The Evidence

I kid a lot. But the truth remains that I'm simply agnostic, all around. There's much that I can neither prove nor disprove. So I ought to roll with some variation of "Cool story, bro. Would be [something] if it were really the case!" Else, I'd be paralyzed or go insane.

The Artist's RPG / Components: Puzzle

PUZZLE

INTEGRATORS

OVERVIEW - DETECTION - MATCHES

This existence is but a giant puzzle. Made of countless puzzles more. And if you’re lucky, you stumble upon the pieces, notice them, pick them up, and can place them where they belong. It is not about forcing them to fit into a vision, but about letting them reveal the vision. What picture are they painting?

“It is a mystery until it is not. Inconceivable until not. Impossible ’til not.”

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Intrigue and fascination are ever-present. There is more to see, more to catch, more to put together. And far too often, something just seems off. Not quite right. Or not quite as simple. Can’t put your finger on it, not yet. And might not rest until you do.

There are trees, of course, beautifully intricate leaves too, but don’t miss the forest. Take a step back, or several, and realize how limited your point of view is or has been. Furthermore, how looks can be deceiving. Can you really be sure that you are seeing what is truly there?

All you know is that there is a, perhaps secret, order in the chaos of confusion, of all that has not been made sense of. And every now and then, here and there, you get a clue, you figure something out, it clicks into place. And it can be euphoric. It is all coming together in astonishing ways.

This existence is but a giant puzzle. Made of countless puzzles more. And if you’re lucky, you stumble upon the pieces, notice them, pick them up, and can place them where they belong. It is not about forcing them to fit into a vision, but about letting them reveal the vision. What picture are they painting?

The pieces may be laid in front of you, waiting for your attention and some organization, or scattered around, for you to search and hold on to until you are finally able to tell where they go.

How many times did you encounter a piece of a puzzle, ignore it, and later go back for it? They aren’t always so obvious. And even while getting a tingling of suspicion, you might choose to brush it off. Only to then be surprised by how relevant it ultimately was.

Overstimulating, So-So, Understimulating

Easier said than done, but you must always remember your ability to make the most out of situations. It is not always possible, granted, and often you can only do so much, but adopting a ‘How can I work with this?’ outlook goes further than a ‘Why won’t this go my way?!’ attitude when it is not within your hands to immediately change your circumstances.

Yes, things can be frustrating. And worse than that, they can be debilitating. Harmful and destructive even. And in such cases, you must fight to get to where you’re as safe as possible as soon as possible. Then, once there, you can get to work.

What is going on and how is it affecting you? Is it too much all at once? Is it too little all of a sudden? Or is it a happier medium in between? Though you can (and likely should) strive to set and maintain your ideal levels of stimulation, within some favorable range, it is not guaranteed that you’ll have control over what does or doesn’t happen for and/or around you.

You are not necessarily stuck, though. Chances are that this, too, shall pass. And while it is on, believe it or not, it could be a bundle of countless opportunities for you to do what you otherwise wouldn’t be able to. So take advantage of it while you still can!

Overstimulation? There is a lot happening? This is your chance to look and spot all the raw materials that can be useful to your craft, with an overwhelming amount of options, and ultimately select what you will be turning into art.

So-so? Something is somewhat happening? This is your chance to have a balanced approach between picking and packing what pertains to your field, with minor or no adjustments to your pace and approach, just doing some of this and some of that here and there.

Understimulation? Nothing seems to be happening? This is your chance to search within, into what you are already carrying with you, or to dive into what the past or the future may hold, via research and reflection, so that you can bring it forth as it deserves in your own manner.

It helps to keep in mind that, regardless, there is inspiration to be found and to be had. It’ll be on you to get yourself to where you can catch it, rather than be consumed and defeated by the irritation that comes with being overwhelmed or the boredom that comes with being underwhelmed. But nonetheless, things are probably not as helpless as they can intially come across. And who knows? Maybe you will later see, in hindsight, how it was in your favor.

The Death of Slim Shady (Live Performances)

I'm wrapping it up! Watching him perform is something else. I have to limit my exposure to Eminem’s live performances because I don’t wanna be, let’s just say, pathetically starstruck by his awesomeness. But it isn’t a complete day without these theatrics. He did make a full comeback! 

PS: I was in awe of the sets at other concerts, too, featuring more of a graveyard. Absolutely nothing was half-assed, huh?

The Death of Slim Shady (In Conclusion...)

I wanted to open a can of worms, and a can of worms was opened. Surprisingly, can even directly quote some of the lyrics going, “Just opened the biggest can of worms on the whole planet Earth.” But to be fair, it could have been worse.

Boys are dumb, I still cringe and get grossed out witnessing and/or listening to Slim Shady’s antics, tons is rotten, and I’m confused af about what a lot of it meant or was referring to. I tried to go at it in order, but it doesn’t seem very chronologically organized. Maybe there’s a different sort of arrangement to go by. I don’t know. I’m expecting I’ll have realizations over time, to further comprehend it all, when more dots manage to connect (or I come across the answers).

At this point, what I can firmly say is that I sincerely appreciate all the work that went into giving Slim Shady a funeral. Or something like that? It is unclear! But, I mean, how it was so on theme and how imaginative and creative it came out as. If I weren’t such a blatant admirer of artists’ abilities, I’d be envious. ‘Cause, jeez, what a show!

Personally, I believe I can declare Temporary as my top favorite track. I hated it so much. But then loved it so much, too. Death (and moving on) is always a heavy subject, but oughta confront it nonetheless. It was also such a magnificent time-capsule-message embedded piece that it blew my mind. Then, against my will, I fell in love with Guilty Conscience 2. (Don’t get me started about how much Guilty Conscience stood out for me and what a treat a continuation of it is for someone like me!)

I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again: Though the King of Controversy is sorely missed, that’s one hella demanding job. Besides, I want to see Marshall, the “chopped liver”.

The Death of Slim Shady (Tracklist)

A mere few days definitely aren’t enough to take this album in as thoroughly as I would like to. Thank goodness that it is not the end of it (it remains there to be revisited) and it is only the end of my current reviewing. I AM listening to all of the tracks, though, and trying to piece them together. But for now, just emoji-coding them!

. Renaissance (intro) 💣

. Habits 🚩

. Trouble (short) 👥

. Brand New Dance 🎈

. Evil 👿

. All You Got (skit) 👥

. Lucifer 📓

. Antichrist 📓

. Fuel 🥊

. Road Rage 🚩

. Houdini 💣

. Breaking News (skit) 🚨

. Guilty Conscience 2 👥

. Head Honcho 🥊

. Temporary 💔

. Bad One 🚩

. Tobey 📓

. Guess Who’s Back (skit) 💀

. Somebody Save Me 💔

. Steve Berman (skit) 🚨

. Fuel (Shady edition) 🔥

. Like My Shit 🔥

. Kyrie & Luka 🔥

The Death of Slim Shady (Lyric Video)

Okay, I’m not even gonna attempt to grasp everything that’s going on here. But there’s wordplay to catch, a ride into and through that side of town, and what seems to be an ongoing fight between Marshall Mathers and Slim Shady - including zombie Slim Shadys (and both of them swollen, pfft).

Possibly the craziest Lyric Video in existence, but I’m mostly captivated, and humored, by how it’s done in a retro pixelated video game style. Plus, comic books’ flair. And just so shamelessly absurdist that I realize all over again that Eminem’s the sort of guy to name himself after M&Ms. And that’s… brilliant. To say the least.

The Death of Slim Shady (Music Videos)

I immediately appreciated how Houdini seemed to be an ‘answer’ to Without Me’s line, “Now, let's go, just give me the signal. I'll be there with a whole list full of new insults.” Yet, more than that, how it played with the passing of time. It’s been a while indeed and things have changed plenty. It packaged and delivered the nostalgia outstandingly, bringing it into today. It did come across as pretty random, though, nevertheless, clever. And I was hooked by the line, “And for my last trick, I’m ‘bout to reach in my bag, bruh.” I suppose it was referring to the insane content within the album?

Not gonna lie. This one was triggering the heck out of me. I had to force myself to actually listen to what was being said. Or attempting to communicate. And remind myself that it wasn’t catering to me and my sensitivities, in particular. That ~I’m not the only one with issues~. My snap judgment was that it was such a defeatist pity party, and I, forever the ~where there’s a will there’s a way~, despised that. It might be that it painfully reminded me of my own powerlessness to help people dealing with addiction problems (been there, not a happy ending story) and the sad reality that you can only help those who want to be helped and who will also help themselves. But taking myself and my personal issues out of the equation, and valuing it for what it is, I’m so grateful that such an intimate look at the struggles one could find themselves in was given. Somebody Save Me is heartbreaking, especially if you’re the kind who’s there for others or wishes to be.

Then, Temporary broke me. Confused or not, damn it. I was not ready to cry this much over a freakin’ song by no other than EMINEM. I ended up MAD. Like, what even was this about? Some hypothetical death and being asked to move on? But then again, it’s a family thing, and I’m only a stranger on the outside looking in, so what can I even say? I don’t know, but it messed me up regardless. ‘Cuz wutcha talkin’ about? I don’t want to move on! SIGH. Anyway, I listened to it recently, and it doesn’t stir me like that anymore. But it’s still so damn upsetting and unsettling. Jeez. The girl in me, with an absent father, was made to experience a multitude of feelings.

In general, though, gotta keep applauding Eminem’s genius.

The Death of Slim Shady (Teasers & Trailers)

Umm, yeah. Can’t tell if Marshall Mathers’ brain is more saturated with horror movies and overall stories than mine is. I’ma have to bet yes. What even is that thing? “Fear not, you’re in the hands of heroes!” Not sure if I should read that in a serious or mocking tone, either. But okay, let’s keep going…

Why are you spitting on Slim Shady’s grave? What’d he do to you?! Man, it’s times like this when I realize that I wasn’t enough of a fan, tracking every move of each and all these personalities, because I’m missing so much context. I mostly just remembered Slim Shady as ‘problematic’, ‘politically incorrect’, and ‘giving free advertisement’ to everyone he picked on or merely mentioned in his rapping. Along with the many abilities he rightfully gets credit for. But what do I know? Maybe it does take people like Dr. Dre to withstand him. And even then…

Hmm. This ambiance struck me as familiar. I don’t know if it is intentional or not, though. Or just a coincidence. But even if it’s coincidental, it might have been subconsciously connecting to it for some reason. It reminds me of “Not Afraid”. Maybe I just really liked that music video. But most importantly, what is this person being forced to watch and why? Guess I’ll have to listen to the album…

There’s even an Expanded Mourner edition?

Truth be told, I was reluctant to expect much coherence within this whole fictional universe. Could all just be a mixture of sensationalist stuff that rhymes and references. Which, if the case, whatever; at least it sells. Not everybody can, or should even attempt to, be a die-hard nerd. But if I’m not mistaken, he emphasized somewhere that it was a CONCEPT album and asked to listen to the tracks in order so that we could get it. Or so I heard. If so, sounds like there was plenty of thought put into it.

The Death of Slim Shady

Buckle up, ‘cause I’m finally going into it! I’d been puzzled about it and drawn to this concept album since it was first announced. Horror, crime, antiheroes? Count me in! I couldn’t give it the attention it merited before (too angry, too sad, too ‘can hardly give a f**k’). Now I can, though.

It is not a secret that this is actually my all-time favorite side of Eminem. The darker stuff, shining a light on it. And how, even while being quite hands-on, raw and explicit, it gets quite psychological too. Talk about thrillers. I love him for it (understatement).

This came as a shock to me, however. Killing Slim Shady? Look, I disagreed plenty with the guy, er, character, and believed he’d be my high school bully if both were put in the same setting, but killing him? Really? I can’t kill my own OCs that nobody’s heard of, how can anybody permanently kill a figure as great as Slim Shady? This had to be some sort of joke. But anyhow, I was clueless about where all this was coming from and where it was headed, so I tried to suspend my judgments until later.

Today is Friday the 13th, and digging into The Death of Slim Shady seems oddly fitting for the occasion.

CURRENT, UPCOMING, and PREVIOUS Events

The week to open this can of worms has started. Excuse me while I try to deal with it amidst the state of the world and my own instability... 

I decided I wouldn't be putting it off for too long after all. Though I do hope and pray, and am doing my best, so that I'll be free enough for all of it by the time the dates come. This is truly some historic stuff!

(More of the previous events are to be listed later on...)

Joining an Event? Here are Pointers!

‘Joining’, at least so far, basically means that you will be tuning in to the selected media (brought here) and the posts, mine or others’, around it. As a fun exercise in appreciation, potentially also reflection, or merely to catch a break (unlikely that that’s all there will be to it if you have an artistic brain, though). You might also walk away from it inspired and motivated to do more of your own thing.

It is your choice!
If a selected media does not appeal to you, you are under no obligation to tune into it. At worst, you’ll just miss out on what it has to offer and the references that are later made around it. Which could be a bummer, yet certainly not the end of the world. However, if it’s worth it to you, and you can make the space for it, then you’re in for what could be a delightfully enriching ride!

Remember the 3 R’s!
Tuning in won’t do, however, if you’re not in optimal (or close enough) conditions for it. To be so, you must be Rested, Relaxed, and Ready. If you’re Rested, you are able to pick up and process more. If you’re Relaxed, you will be able to focus and immerse more. If you’re Ready, you will be able to have an enhanced experience. Being Ready can consist of something as simple as sitting back comfortably to something as elaborate as a full-blown celebration complete with drinks and snacks that fit the theme. Don’t complain about not having a good time if you were lacking in the aforementioned! (That’s a You problem.)

There are countless ways to interpret!
You can take it at face value and be done with and over it without any issue. But some of us not only like, but are PHYSICALLY & PSYCHOLOGICALLY unable to not go further with it. We may ponder the worldbuilding, the plots, the characters, the dialogues, and any and every perceivable element or symbol at play. It is good practice to keep in mind, however, that your interpretation may be only that: your interpretation.

That said, a few hints:
• Relating can go from 0% to 100%.
• Ressemblance can be literal, as a metaphor, and “maybe in an alternate timeline or parallel universe”.
• Resonance can occur regardless of gender, race, age, and other traits. May even happen with abstract phenomena and inanimate objects.
• When ‘Based on Real Life’, generally, there’s an emphasis on ‘Based on’. They are not reenacted with the utmost precision and accuracy. Real Life will always be much more detailed and complex than what fits within a piece of media. Media often is tailored to suit something else.
• Fictional stories are fantastic. It is both fortunate and unfortunate that only a portion of them is experienced for real.
Ultimately, you do you and find how to make the most and best of it.

And if your calendar allows it, you can save a date!
It is probable that I will say, upfront, when, exactly, I will be dedicating myself to it. But matching my schedule is definitely not required (though a few pals do it for the extra joy of it). You can go before me and wait for me to catch up and bring my input or after me and dig into all the input I already brought. Or something like that.

I do recommend participating…
Yet, again, even if you’re closely and religiously keeping up with the “Unbridling and Sustaining Artistic Abilities” program, these Events are complementary, not mandatory! There’s a chance I’ll summarize, too, so no one’s totally clueless regardless.

Events? It’s Official!

You may be late to the party, but still early enough to join!

Taking some time to enjoy media is something I enjoy doing (that then allows me to appreciate it). And every once in a while, there’s a piece of media that I look forward to indulging in. During these times, I may be casually or formally posting about it. And this is the section where many of those posts will go.

In the past, it was something I did more personally, scattered around, but I noticed (shockers) that just as I love taking part in this sort of activity, others do too. It is quite related to the whole being an artist. Gotta love art to make art.

So what was taken as a ‘guilty pleasure’, some undisciplined oversharing I did, is now officially part of my content. And I’ll try to make it special, but not so much that I’m crippled by perfectionism!

In my case, there are a few genres, topics, and artists that I’m particularly interested in and/or entertained by. So rather than attempting (and failing) to check every great cultural hit, my scope will be somewhat limited by my personal preferences. If they happen to overlap yours, then awesome! We can both be in awe of what comes up/out!

The Artist's RPG / Colors

UNDERSTANDING THE PALETTE

Within this game, and its entire system, colors are essential. The lack thereof, notable too. Intriguing and fascinating properties and relationships are inherent to them. Studying them closely can lead to a profound understanding of what makes the world come “alive”.

COMPLEXITY

Among the chromatic colors, there are primary, secondary, and tertiary colors.

Primary colors can be considered the simplest, most straightforward, and therefore direct. Secondary colors can be considered somewhere in between, carrying two colors, and hold a balance. Tertiary colors can be considered the most complex, a mix of much of this and some of that, and therefore elaborate.

You can get to know a color by itself and by what other colors it produces or is produced from.

TEMPERATURE

Among the chromatic colors, there are also warm and cool colors.

Warm colors can be considered comparatively active and aggressive. While cool colors can be considered comparatively passive and receptive. Hot&Cold colors… both.

However, they are all teachers and scholars in their own realms.

COMPANIONSHIP

Furthermore, there is the concept of complementary colors, which work well together in different settings, taking off the other’s excesses and covering for their lacks. Paired, they can be a team for a specific purpose.

• Discovery & Insight: “Charters.”

• Management & Distribution: “Providers.”

• Execution & Formulas: “Solvers.”

• Striving & Optimization: “Enterprisers.”

• Mobilization & Cooperation: “Revolutionaries.”

• Tending & Restoration: “Cultivators.”

Yet, other sorts of teams can certainly also be formed.

LUMINOSITY

Alternatively, when it comes to achromatic colors, there is white, black, and gray between them.

Quite consistently, white and black affect how light or dark it gets, and can be associated with figurative highs or lows. But something else happens with gray, as a blend of both, pulling in opposite directions, remaining surface-level, muting instead.

COMBOS

Last but not least, something peculiar manifests in this universe. We have what we call combo colors. Basically.

They are centered on a lighter or darker version of the colors sitting at the center of the warm or cold regions, and can, to an extent, draw from and lean on colors around them. They represent earth, sand, caves, and skies. And fundamentally become a maze of depth and/or breadth.

Being inner and outer, above and below, some would say that there’s a mythical quality to them, as they transcend and withstand the test of time…

You Do Get A Lot Done Over Time, Though

Take a deep breath and let it out. This is a marathon, not a sprint. Rome wasn’t built in a day. I oughta remind myself of all of this every once in a while. If your dreams are big, if they are for the long term, frantically fretting won’t do. Gotta keep it steady and stay persistent. Compounding on previous and upcoming efforts.

Just the thought of it can be overwhelming and exhausting. There’s just so much that has to be addressed and tackled. It may seem impossible. Something you are not cut out for. Completely out of reach. But if you look around and really pay attention, you will see that, if you are committed and able to push through and stick with it, you will make significant progress. Soon proving yourself that it was within your scope after all. That's how I can manage.

Stress can certainly get to you, too. But it is a matter of time and how you use it. Most likely. Can you pace yourself? Can you break apart big tasks into smaller ones as well as put them in order? Can you delay gratification or, better yet, find gratification in the process? Ironically, sometimes slowing down gets you where you’re going faster. May even better guarantee that you’ll actually get there, rather than merely wearing yourself out.

At the end of the day, you are only a person. There is only so much you can do by yourself within a short time frame. But within a week, a month, a year, a decade? Now we’re talking. How far ahead do you look? Are you even allowing yourself to be far-sighted? I know that being stuck in or barely coming out of survival mode can mess with your ability to aim beyond the day-to-day. Been there. But if we lost it, we must regain it.

More than just survive, let’s thrive. Let’s look at our circumstances and decide that they could be improved. Then work persistently toward that. Guard your health, guard your sanity, guard your vitality. So that the span you have to work within will expand rather than shrink. This should be your priority to outlast adversity.

How many skills have you already developed? How much knowledge have you already gathered? How many accomplishments have you already achieved? How much have you already grown, matured, and evolved? You’ve done it before. You can do it again.

Cycling Pisces

Pisces is arguably the most intriguing and fascinating sign in the Zodiac, while also being the most understated. It represents the epitome of spirituality, although how you define that can still be debated.

In the case of Pisces, it is about possessing an unmatched combination of sensitivity, empathy, and imagination. All qualities that allow diving into what the abstract realm is made of, as much as possible.

It is said that, as the 12th and last sign on the wheel, before the cycle restarts again with Aries, it has absorbed the lessons that came before, having done a full journey. You would assume that this would automatically make it the most powerful and, in some ways, it is. However, the reality of it is much more complex.

Because we primarily exist not in the spiritual plane but in the physical (and one not even close to ideal), Pisces can be especially pushed and challenged. Particularly struggling with themes of imprisonment and escapism ("I've seen it and it is terrible! Get me out of here!"). Yet, at the same time, able to be acutely aware of what moves, visible or not to others, subtle as it may be. And if moments of reflection can be afforded, mysteries of the universe and beyond can be accessed.

Beware of falling into delusions and/or of being deteriorated by harsh realities.
Then you can eternally play within the soothing and nourishing sea of mysticism.

For context and more of relevance, please read about The Zodiac.

So Creative!

Artists be making Art and you’re like, “Haha, that’s so Random/Spontaneous! You’re so Creative!”
And then you’re like, “Oh, oh…”

The Artist's RPG / Art's Universe

If you’ve made it to this point, congratulations (or condolences). Artistry has led you to acknowledge that there is something much grander, mysteriously at play.

It is matter and spirit. But what is matter without spirit? Not great art or art at all.

Through the vast and endless space, filled with countless stars and constellations, meticulously involving all that composes this cosmic reality, the bright and the brightest illuminate the way. Come along if you dare to be a part of it and perhaps find your divine role as an artist.

On this expedition, you may be both inspired and motivated, but also challenged to meet your potential, pushing for excellence beyond worldly standards, overcoming obstacles and defeating opponents.

Explore, experience, express, experiment, expand.

The Artist's RPG, And So, It Formally Begins...

The Artist's RPG has been in the oven for quite a while, vaguely and subtly introduced during draftings, but we now begin to formally get into it, periodically releasing bits of it to later on officially put together - with even more around it! If you're a geek for it, you're likely to enjoy this ride, keeping up with every post (on Sunday afternoons and then some), learning what it's all about.

Are you a fellow Artist RPGer in Spirit?

Welcome aboard!

Nobody Said It'd Be Easy

Phew! I can’t believe I’m still standing, but I am. When I decided to go on this mission, of essentially being Art’s #1 supporter, or just someone devoted to the whole ‘Unbridling & Sustaining Artistic Abilities’, I had no idea how much it implied and entailed. I knew it was a vast world of possibilities for studying and making content that I could be forever passionate about, and that was more than thrilling to me, but damn! It is certainly not without obstacles and opposition.

Yet, it still remains a grand and profoundly invigorating purpose for me. During my ‘Exploring & Experimenting’ period, I could be so discouraged, worrying I would never find My Thing™, and it could be depressing and anxiety-inducing. Now that I’m finally where I can believe I’m meant to be, it can be tough and it can be tricky, but still what I want to be doing and who I need to be.

So much has happened, and is still happening, since that moment I could first ‘lock in’ and start giving it my all in one definite direction, that it is nearly impossible to fully recount. Yes, I can seem scattered, but you can trust that it is all connected and aligned. However, despite and because of it, it doesn’t cease to be the most epic adventure I could have possibly embarked on.

Did things go as I initially expected them to? Nope. It’s like that saying, over and over again, “We make plans and God laughs at them.” But, in this case, it’s more like he sighs and goes, “Child, there are far greater things in store for you.” And he’s right. Not without plenty of eye-opening and character-developing experiences, though! Frustrating, to say the least. Yet, with all things considered, ultimately worthwhile.

I’ve always cared about getting stronger, wiser, braver. Perhaps to a fault, because that path isn’t compatible with other, also desirable, paths (and their rewards). And that’s what I’ve been getting the most. Often, not even as my own choice. Nonetheless, this time, it is manifesting in a way that it isn’t breaking me. And credit where credit is due: I have a hand in that, too.

The crazy thing is that, when you’re resolute about championing a cause that is greater than yourself, you will be pleasantly and unpleasantly surprised by all the allies and enemies that will show up. And all the work that corresponds with this. Sounds dramatic, but this barely begins to cover it.

Would I do it all over again? Heck no. But do I regret it? HECK NO.

I only ask to be capable of continuing for as long as I ought to.

2026's Calendar

Undeniably, 2026 is a hectic, quite unpredictable, year. So there won't be much set on this calendar. Mostly, just respecting seasons and honoring traditions. It will be more eventful in the future, when more is fully settled. Meanwhile, however we can, let's keep going!

Birthdays

Beginnings, beginings…
Who knows what’s in store for us?

Returning to Spring

Seasons change, we're still spinning...
It might have been a tough Winter but, again, here comes Spring!

You belong with... Who?

If a person is not giving you the sense of security you require to be at peace, unless you have an undeniable obligation to them that justifies putting you through that turmoil, it is okay to distance yourself psychologically and/or physically. And if they’re reasonable enough, they should understand that.

Maybe they’re going through something, maybe they haven’t quite gotten to the better version of themselves yet, maybe there’s some sort of compatibility issue to be sorted out, or they’re just awful. Whatever it is, it is THEIR responsibility, not yours, to deal with their part of it.

If they wish to strive toward one path or another, sources of healing, clarity, empowerment, and more, abound. Available to anyone who cares enough to do the work. It’s not like, by protecting yourself, you’re causing them to starve.

Let them do what they oughta do. Time will tell whether you belong together or not.

Bad Bunny’s Halftime Show @ The Super Bowl 2026

I don’t always tune in for the Super Bowl’s Halftime Show, but this year I did. And whoa! I do not regret it at all. I’m extremely glad and relieved I didn’t miss it. ‘Cause what a show! And more than that… What a moment in History!

Of course, I’d been hearing about it. There was controversy around the fact that Bad Bunny would do the performance, with an increasingly (and absurdly) “nationalist” regime forming and taking place in The United States. There were people mad about it. A Puerto Rican?!? That’s not America! And well, he gave them a Geography lesson. It was also particularly delightful how welcome he was in the state of California, which even declared a day in his honor.

Know him or not and hate him or not, something about Bad Bunny is undeniable: He’s got his own flair. One that, as he established himself through his trajectory, brings with it what we’d call Sabor Latino, or rather, to quote him, “Sazón”. Yet, in his case, it is not merely (or precisely) about being comparatively sensual and ‘hot’, but about unabashedly bringing that - and more - forth to an extent like never before. Next to him, a todos nos falta sazón!

It actually made me so indescribably happy to see so much culture plastered all around, telling our stories, capturing our history. It’s like he tried to include everything, as much as he could, and then wraps it up with the line of “Debí tirar mas fotos” (“I should have taken more pictures”). And to do so while on such a wide-reaching and impact-causing platform. It was not only genius, but meaningful and significant af. There were some, Latino or not, whining about how it was showing ‘the worst’ and how it was ‘below standards’, and that’s just telling on themselves. Too shallow to get the point. If there’s a genuine Art & Culture subject, they’ve failed it horribly.

The chosen lyrics that were sung were also quite interesting to me. It’s a bit of this and that, here and there, but, overall, paints a picture of what it’s like to be Latino or, at the very least, to mingle where he mingles. The censored part amused me for real, got me repeatedly laughing about it by myself. And so did the “Cuidao con mi corrillo que somos un montón” part. It was all quite unhinged, but in a fun (and harmless) way.

Lady Gaga’s appearance was such an unexpected surprise! I applaud that “mismatched” move. Like, who would have guessed? And there she was, celebrating a culture, with both dedication and respect. Adding to it no other than one of my most personal favorite songs. However, as Salsa! It’s as though she’s making dreams come true before they’re even dreams, if that makes sense. Then, as if that wasn’t more than enough already, came Ricky Martin to hit us hard in the feelings. Abuelita, noo. Our lands, nooo.

It is no exaggeration to say that a ton of us LOVED it. Especially Canadians, apparently. You had to be awfully determined to hate it in order to do so. Even if you are indifferent about the genre or it sits among your dislikes, the show was undeniably extraordinary. Truly, amazingly put together (best appreciated in video, though). That level of attention and commitment it must have taken to get it all exactly as it went astounds me and makes me grateful that there are still people giving so much to art.

That moment when Bad Bunny looks straight into the camera, and therefore into your eyes, to tell you, as if one-on-one, to believe in yourself and that you’re worth more than you think is priceless. The self-care gift you might not have known you needed but got anyway. 

You think I'm oversentimentalizing this? Understandable. But did you see the trailer? If you haven't, you should. It speaks for itself. Our ancestry and our roots have been wonderfully preserved. More profoundly and grandly than I could ever ask for. My heart is beyond full. 💝

Guess I’m listening to Bad Bunny now...

PS: I absolutely adore the irony of practically 'Seasoning' a 'Super Bowl'.

Pisces' Season

♓ PISCES

As we enter the season of Pisces, it is believed that the universe will be affecting us with energies that will cause us to dream freely and connect emotionally. We will be more in tune with our intuition, and abilities to create and heal will be enhanced. If you are receptive to them, you might be imbued with compassion and imagination. If you are resistant to them, you might be conflicted with escapism and confusion. If you are completely blocked out, you might not notice them at all. And if you don't pay enough attention, you might miss opportunities to tap into your spiritual side.

Motivational Quote: "Let your imagination guide you to the stars."

For context and more of relevance, please read about The Zodiac.

Unexpressed Love

Please believe it, that I haven't gushed as much as I have in me to gush about all the things I love, have loved, and will continue to love. BUT THE DOW.

(It keeps me going, however. And I'll get there! 💝)

Taylor Swift's Opalite

Sweet. Regardless of everything that is currently happening, which is heavy stuff, to say the least, I’m glad an official music video was made for Opalite, an undeniable favorite, and that it was out in time for February, way to set and fit the mood! Again, my heart may be full of hate and whatnot, but lovable art is lovable. And I’ll be singing and dancing along as if whatever.

An answered prayer. Yet, beyond being a personal favorite, I’d say that it is a good thing that, for a break, the focus was put on such a piece during these trying times. It can’t all be doom and gloom 24/7. Besides, the way things have been, culturally, it is a common phenomenon to suffer from failed or non-ideal relationships. So it addresses a problem, it tends to a wound, it validates an experience. Much worse things are happening in the world, indeed, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t take a moment for a bit of medicine if we need it. And can you argue that Opalite is not that?

I see many people enjoying it through the joy of seeing Travis and Taylor, as a couple, pictured in it. And that’s valid! In my case, though, I continue to not exactly be a fan of that relationship, so I’m left with all else there is to appreciate about it - which is plenty. 

The look and feel of the 90s got me, of course, as a true millennial who partly survives on nostalgia and sentimentality. And how they managed to capture and convey that period was outstanding! Especially as it leaned on quirks and silliness rather than glamour. Striking the graceful balance of poking fun at it without making fun of it. It’s serious but not that serious. I loved this so much.

It also gave us a handful of different relationships reflected back at us. Functional and dysfunctional. To be pondered (the internet is going wild trying to get the corresponding interpretations). The rock with the cactus, existing together as if they were made for each other, was such a clever touch, in my opinion! The stapler’s issues, though, whoever they are… I just hope they get a qualified therapist and quality therapy that helps them flourish rather than just water them down. And, well, that pair of dorks who are enough of a team to pull off a fun dance routine like that sure have merit in spite of how they're judged. Etc. Etc. Etc.

All in all, this was an adorable drop. I can admit, even as I remain bitter. And if you wish to further nerd out on it, within another context and through another angle, the extended versions, part 1 and part 2, are also released. There, instead, Taylor pretty much gushes about the talented personnel and impressive work behind the scenes, hanging out as her usual self. Hurray for bonus clips!