So I have only written one post so far in October. This was not my intention; but then again, I am not really sure what the intention of this blog is. I am enjoying other peoples' blogs more than writing my own. Especially those ones that just have minimum content: a phrase, a link, a comment, maybe an image or two. I feel like I am reinforcing some kind of www synaptic pathway when I follow a trail through these kinds of websites, which is reinforced further when I realise (mainly via Twitter), that everyone else is doing this too. I don't pretend that I am going to make some profound critical commentary on what I see, hear or read, nor do I have an agenda, like selling a book, or my own services as a writer or critic. Perhaps I should learn from what I enjoy, and be a bit more spontaneous with this whole thing. (Is this is blog as 'conversation with self'?)
What I have found is that writing this has helped me feel more engaged with an online community, and to be involved with any community is rather a relief when I am mainly sitting here at my desk most days, in a city that is still a stranger to me. And, because I am keeping up with friends' activities, when I see them in real life, we have plenty to talk about. I like this blurring of online and offline connections, which once felt really separate, and now feel kind of similar. I hope after last week's Museum Next (un)conference in Newcastle, some of the connections, discussions and various (and varied) ideas about participation will grow and build on some of those things that we explored at that event: their website promises much, but it will be interesting to see if it becomes the hub of 'wild ideas' promised.
On/offline connections with Ele meant that it was great and easy to catch up with her (two weeks ago) at the Zoo Art Fair in London. I enjoyed the general art buzz in London during what is called 'the frieze weekend', but it was great not to attend frieze, and just mill about galleries for a while, generally seeing 'old favourites' (Flavin, Judd, Shovlin, Gupta, Kiefer) and a few new favourites (Nashashibi, Freee Art Collective, Scoli Acosta, and guestroom). (Is this is blog as 'note to self'?)
Flags in the Zoo cafe.
