News: Pleased to announce that my blog is a winner in the 2013 Macaulay Eportfolio Expo!
See interactive portfolio website: http://alessandrarao.wix.com/portfolio1
First, thank you for visiting my blog.
I created it with the hopes that I would entertain and educate my readers with all things related to art, design, technology and some occasional surprises! I would describe myself as an individual who is perpetually inspired by the culture of New York City. Visiting museums is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the culture and rich history of this metropolis. Not everybody has the time or patience to do so, which is why I decided to create Art Talks, or Museum Talks, which are videos or or presentations of specific pieces that personally moved me. My Art Talks are inspired by Khan Academy’s SmartHistory and Macaulay Honors College’s Culutral Events. By uploading these, I hope that my audience at least gets to experience my point of view, and maybe even see the piece in a new light. Let me know in a message: am I fulfilling these intentions?
This blog also exhibits beautiful things I come across in the street. “Beautiful,” to me, describes anything that makes me stop and look. I love taking pictures of things that are quirky, vintage, curious and even ugly…basically anything that conjures emotions or brings up questions. I feel like my understanding of my surroundings keeps increasing the more I involve myself in it artistically. That’s why I aim to capture all the “beautiful” moments, even if they are ugly.
Technology is a major part of my life. I use current technology, such as my MacBook Pro (thanks Macaulay Honors!), iPhone, Canon Rebel, and Prezi to convey the material so that it reaches my audience, like you. When I gather my observations, I record them and upload them here, assimilating them with iMovie, iPhoto, Photoshop, etc to put them in the most convenient format possible. And the entire purpose of technology is to make things convenient, isn’t it? I bring my iPhone with me everywhere. I use my iPhone the way a fine artist would use a sketchpad or the way a writer would use a notebook–to record those moments of inspiration. Most of the photos and videos here were captured using my iPhone because I try to be as raw as possible. Not to mention, I use programs like Prezi to 1. help demonstrate an excellent program (and no, I don’t get paid to advertise) and 2. to organize my findings in a stylish, coherent manner.
Since I am a songwriter and guitarist and I want to make time for it despite my busy schedule, I have set a goal for myself. I aim to write educational songs about a well-known person I admire, whether it be a historical figure, a philanthropist, or someone who contributed greatly to society.
Also, unless otherwise noted, all content on the site, including pictures, text, videos, presentations, slideshows, graphics, animation, voiceovers, music are all original works, and I hold all creative rights.
