December 27, 2021 ~ For Chisa
It was really great to connect today! Again, I’m really happy you ended up working with Lauren. She’s an incredible human being and one of my favorite people. I remember when she asked about sound engineers, designers, artists and you, not joking, were the first person that came to mind. I still can’t forget how you turned your walk through the woods into an enchanted and haunting soundscape. I know I have yet to delve into more of your practice. But based on our class with Anna (which I really loved despite it being virtual), I enjoyed listening to your work and insights. You shared some really wondering thoughts and feedback.
Thanks for sharing the photo of Humboldt. I don’t think I’ve actually ever been there properly. I know I’ve passed by the area on a road trip, but never actually hung out there. In any case, it was lovely to get a visual of the snow. While the rain and snow are good for the drought and dry spells we’ve experienced in California, it’s still apparently not enough! Anyway, I hope you made it to your destination safely. Not sure when you will read this. Also, I hope you don’t mind me sending you this missive. As the year comes to a close, so does this epistolary experiment, which makes you a part of it as a recipient.
Circling back around to Anna’s class, it feels so long ago, but it really wasn’t. It was at the start of 2021 and I think we all felt somewhat hopeful, but also resigned. We all have been trying to make the best of it. Then again, when I talk to my mom, she’s reminded me that this is all a part of what humanity goes through. As a species, we have faced pandemics, war, social and cultural uprising. I mean, my mom grew up during the Marcos dictatorship in the Philippines and immigrated to San Francisco when she was 8 months pregnant with me. When she arrived, Moscone and Milk were murdered, the Jonestown massacre happened, and Patty Hearst was abducted. And so many other things. My mother told me how frightened she was when was she got here. She only knew my father (who I had a tumultuous relationship with) and me. We were all she had and I guess that’s something that matters a lot more to me now than ever before. Listening and spending time with my mom, uncle, community and familial elders, and my chosen family. There is so much history that my mom remembers and it’s a treasure trove when we speak. Anyway, I believe in optimism and that individually and collectively we can do our part.
Then again, sometimes, I feel a bit helpless and hopeless. I try to keep my head above water, so to speak, but between all of the things I have to worry about, I constantly feel like I’m drowning. Well, I felt that especially this past semester. But I’m trying my best to have those boundaries and will absolutely honor my “free time” and studio hours in the new year. I must if I want to finish both the artwork and the dissertation. Whew. I’m so anxious, honestly. But I know it will get done because it has to and I’m trying to stick to my personal timeline and desire to finish the degree.
I’m so curious how everything has been for you and being in grad school at this time. I think that’s one of the things that really, truly saddened me about being virtual. There was no break time banter or sharing snacks in a classroom. Sigh. Also, doing sound work, well, listening to sound work just isn’t the same over zoom, you know? I know you know, by the way. Hee hee. I want to listen and watch more of your work, please! As I mentioned via text, I do have something that I would love to run by you and possibly work together on next year. But as I mentioned, I know you’re swamped and busy with school and work as well. I’m really looking forward to catching up and learning more about your practice. Okay, I should get going because I’m starting to get tired and trying to wind down so I don’t go to bed too late. It’s been really challenging to sleep lately, but trying to be better. Again, looking forward to hanging out. Sending you lots of love and hugs.
On the digital thread of the time-space continuum, here is a post from December 27, 2011.
