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Strawberry Linden

Black Kite.jpg
Pictured: Black Kite

Each week, the Second Life Destination Guide editorial team reviews dozens of new locations and events worth exploring. With all those beautiful destinations to check out, we thought we’d highlight a few of the entries that stood out to the editorial team. Don't forget to check our Recently Added category to see all the latest additions to the Destination Guide!

This week we're featuring beautiful nature-themed regions, role-playing destinations, and artistic events! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Learn more about the Tucker Stilley art exhibit at the Cape Able Art Gallery in our blog post from earlier this week.

 

Got a spot that you’d like listed in the Destination Guide? Make sure to drop us a note at editor@lindenlab.com or submit your spot via web form.

Connect with Second Life on Social Media:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Flickr | Pinterest | TikTok | Reddit | LinkedIn

Linden Lab

SL18B Applications are Now Open for Performers!


Second Life Birthday

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Calling all performers! Second Life is seeking talent for our upcoming 18th annual Second Life birthday celebration (SL18B) held from June 17th to July 1st, 2021. Get ready for fun-filled weeks of live music, performances, shopping, and amazing community exhibits! 

One of the things that makes Second Life so vibrant and exciting is the wide range of Performers who share their talent with our Residents. Are you a DJ who can spin up a great party set? You might be one of the grid’s amazing Dance companies, or perhaps you’re a Particle Performer! Whatever your medium, we would love to hear from you. 

Fill out the official performer application form by May 28th (this date has now changed to May 10th) and tell us a little about how you roll, and one of our Event Staff Leaders will contact you soon.

CURRENT APPLICATIONS FOR SL18B:

Over the next few months, keep an eye on our blog for more opportunities to participate in the SL18B celebrations!

Linden Lab

Cape Able Art Gallery - Tucker Stilley.jpg

On Wednesdays from 5:00-7:00pm SLT throughout April and May, there will be guided tours of the Tucker Stilley exhibit on Virtual Ability’s Cape Able Island.

Tucker Stilley is a multimedia artist who was diagnosed with ALS/MND (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) 20 years ago. Now fully paralyzed, he uses his eyes to control his computer and create art at a dizzying pace. Creativity runs in the family; his sister, Kate Stilley Steiner, is a documentary filmmaker and co-founder of Citizen Film. Kate and Tucker created a non-profit called the Cohort of Disembodied Artists as a way to help other artists who use assistive technologies to build a community to support their artwork.

The sibling duo has teamed up with Virtual Ability, an institution of the Second Life community, to present a virtual exhibit of Tucker’s work. Virtual Ability was founded by Gentle Heron in 2007 and has grown into a huge and vibrant community. They describe their vision as “to be the leading provider of services and information for people with disabilities in online virtual worlds.”

Tucker’s bio, available in full at the exhibit, describes him as “born in Santa Ana, California in 1961, and educated in an eclectic patchwork stretching across North America – Stilley is a child of the Space Age – with all the bizarre baggage that entails.” As a ‘distinguished alumni’ of the Massachusetts College of Art and Design, he has worked as a media artist, sound designer and film editor over the years as technology has impacted the way we create and experience art. His work has received numerous accolades, with the LA Times describing it as “breathtaking images of the frailty and strength of the human condition.”

Sign up today to attend a guided tour of ‘Palimpsessed,’ Tucker’s new exhibit, curated by Treasure Ballinger. It is available to the public and is sure to give all who attend a bit of much needed inspiration.

 

Linden Lab

Second Life Destinations: The Outer Garden


Second Life Destinations

This week we are being whisked away to The Outer Garden, a resplendent winter garden that appears to be frozen in time.

Creator Bisou Dexler, a professional photographer from Japan, says that “Second Life is the one and only place where I can visualize and share the fantastic drawings overflowing from my brain and feel the beauty born from it.” (Check out their Flickr group for inspiration!)

The Outer Garden’s design, like countless other things, was influenced by the profound emotional impact that COVID had on all of our lives. Bisou, in a moment that is relatable to many, was struck by constant grief in the news and headlines. Bisou describes one particularly striking story: “A documentary was broadcast in which a young man, who was unable to go inside the hospital to see his mother, climbed up to the window of the mother's room on the second floor to look at her. I have never felt love and prayer so heartily, and that's when I found hope in my Second Life build…”

The Outer Garden feels like a sacred place conducive to experiencing the full spectrum of human emotions. It welcomes those who wish for a temporary escape as well as those seeking a cathartic reckoning. Bisou tells us that “my inspirations come from the beautiful creations made by my partner aki69, conversations with SL friends, and my emotions, which respond to happiness and sadness in my real life. Being able to express my imagination in Second Life, which is difficult to do in the real world, has had a profound healing effect on me!”

Everybody feels and expresses things in different ways. The virtual world of Second Life can be a great place to process emotions in a safe space. Bisou says “beauty comforts people, so does sharing sadness. I was healed by creating gardens in order to express myself in this virtual world. I hope my gardens also become a place to alleviate the visitors' sorrow.” 

Visit The Outer Garden today to experience your own unique interpretation of this surreal daydream.

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

 

 

Tara Linden

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This week's featured musician is Al Hofmann, whose one-man band has treated us to a fusion of rock, jazz, and electronic elements for 14 years. With over 3,000 inworld shows under his belt, his style has no doubt evolved time and time again and each performance brings fresh interpretations.

Please check out his official website and YouTube channel to experience his music for yourself!

Q: When/how did you hear about Second Life?
A: I heard about Second Life in the summer of 2006 on a local tv program about new conceptual art tendencies.
 
Q: What instruments do you play, and at what age did you pick them up?
A: I play the guitar: electric, acoustic, classical and midi guitar. With the midi guitar, you can play any instrument sound with it. MIDI is an acronym that stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface. It's a way to connect devices that make and control sounds (such as synthesizers, samplers, and computers) so that they can communicate with each other using MIDI messages. {I also play} bass guitar, percussion and charango, an ancient South American {stringed instrument}, kind of mandolin. I started to play the guitar at the age of 5.
 
Q: How would you describe your music?
A: The style I play is being defined as fusion. A mix of different styles, mainly jazz and rock.
 
Q: Tell us about some of the musicians who have been the most influential to you.
A: John Mclaughlin, Jeff Beck, Chick Corea, John Coltrane, Charles Mingus, Weather Report, etc.
 
Q: How has your relationship to music and creativity been affected by the pandemic, and what would you say to inspire other artists during this time?
A: The positive side of the pandemic is that you have time to fully embrace what you do. Whatever that might be, you can improve what you love to do the most. A wonderful opportunity to even discover the purpose of your life. I strongly believe there is art in every individual. Life and humans are an act of art.
 
Q: What is the most meaningful aspect of the SL music community to you?
A: The most meaningful aspect of the SL music community is planetary conscience. No more borders, languages, political implications, time frames. One love: Art on the planet. SL has given us all a terrific chance to connect with artists and people around the world.

 

Thank you, Al!

If you or somebody you know would like to submit content to be featured in Music Mondays, please fill out this form.

Strawberry Linden

The Hollow.jpg
Pictured: The Hollow

Each week, the Second Life Destination Guide editorial team reviews dozens of new locations and events worth exploring. With all those beautiful destinations to check out, we thought we’d highlight a few of the entries that stood out to the editorial team. Don't forget to check our Recently Added category to see all the latest additions to the Destination Guide!

Today we're sharing 5 photogenic locations and 5 fun events to explore in Second Life this weekend!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Got a spot that you’d like listed in the Destination Guide? Make sure to drop us a note at editor@lindenlab.com or submit your spot via web form.

Connect with Second Life on Social Media:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Flickr | Pinterest | TikTok | Reddit | LinkedIn

Linden Lab

All marginalized communities who face oppression, harassment and violence have the support and solidarity of Linden Lab.  We stand with the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community and against hate, and condemn the violent and deadly acts occurring in our country. 
 
While the AAPI community has historically faced unique challenges such as microaggressions rooted in harmful stereotypes and the experience of being othered, over the last year they have been targeted by an unprecedented surge of harassment, intimidation, and attacks. The irresponsible language about COVID-19 used by public figures, online conspiracies, and a deep-seated bigotry towards Asian Americans have all contributed to what has been referred to as “pandemic racism.” Nearly 4,000 reports of anti-Asian discrimination in 47 states have been reported by Stop AAPI Hate

We acknowledge the added fear and anxiety in our AAPI communities, and the trauma of our colleagues, friends, neighbors and fellow residents. All of us deserve a safe space; a safe community free from fear. Although the amount of Anti-Asian crimes has risen the most in major cities like San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles, Boston and Seattle, we all can do our part to make our communities a place where every human being is treated with dignity and kindness.

Our mission at Second Life has always been to help build a better world, and in support of the AAPI community, we will be donating $10,000 to the Asian Women’s Shelter

How can you help?

Be An Ally: In the context of social justice and equality, being an ally involves using your privilege to advocate for someone who does not hold the same privilege. Allyship is an integral part of how we will dismantle systemic racism, sexism, and prejudice in general.

  • Educate Yourself - While many people may not intentionally say or do things that are deemed offensive, lack of intent is no excuse when dealing with racial insensitivity and/or microaggressions. Check out this list of common racial microaggressions and consider your own actions in how you interact with colleagues.The APA also has published an insightful academic article that further explores “Racial microaggressions and the Asian American experience.”
  • Get Involved - Over the past weekend, many communities held National Day of Action and #StopAsianHate vigils and/or rallies to offer support and raise awareness for those impacted by recent events. Many future events are anticipated and you can stay involved by following news and event announcements from the AAJC website and Facebook page, as well as the #StopAsianHate microsite from the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA). Many people are also taking a public pledge to help end bullying and harassment and signing a petition to call on President Biden to provide emergency safety and relief for Asian-American and Pacific Islander communities.

We are, all of us, living through a turbulent time. We are a year into a worldwide pandemic. Hateful rhetoric in politics, online and in the media. Let’s join together to show a commitment to #StopAsianHate, honor the victims of anti-Asian violence, and push back against racism, sexism, and anti-Asian violence.
 

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Linden Lab

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In appreciation of our Anthro/Furry community in Second Life, we are releasing two new limited edition last names today, only available until April 8th: 
UwU
OwO

We will continue to make additional updates to the available last name pool, so if these options aren’t for you, stay tuned for future updates. 

For more information about the costs and how-tos involved in name changes, read the Changing your username FAQ. Click to change your name now!
 

Linden Lab

Second Life Destinations: Cravone City


Second Life Destinations

This week we are visiting the stunning metropolis of Cravone City, inspired by the real life urban jungles of New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto.

Creator Bhad Craven has been an active Resident for several years, “making quirky home decor and accessories, detailed building components, and the occasional strange/unique/urban outfit under the Bad Unicorn brand.” 

Bhad joined SL when he was an art student and found that the platform was the perfect canvas for his burgeoning creative output. He tells us, “I eventually met Capone MacMoragh, who became a mentor to me after he discovered I was creating original 3D meshes for Bad Unicorn. He took me under his wing by giving me tips and tricks for learning 3D. I believe after many years of creating a wide range of items for Bad Unicorn, my photoshop and Maya skills have grown tremendously since I first joined SL. I have been lucky enough to work as a 3D artist in the real world as well as being able to fully support myself as a Second Life designer.”

Like Bad Unicorn, Capone’s brand, Scotch, is also informed by a modern, urban style. The two designers both found inspiration in the cultural megacenters of NYC, LA, and Toronto. In fact, Bhad came up with the idea for Cravone City in 2015. Given the enormity of his vision, “master builder Paradox Ivory was commissioned to design the place. Known for her work at The Apartments, Ms. Ivory breathed life into this unique city atmosphere that never skips a beat.”

Just like the real life places that inspired it, Cravone City is bustling with activity. Bhad says “whether users are looking for a new tattoo, a trip to the local bodega, a place to hang out, or just a ride on the subway, Cravone offers them a chance to flourish in this familiar, nostalgic virtual space -- a perfect backdrop for most.” Not to mention the shopping district: with stores like HEVO, Animosity Poses, Rossi, Shybird, and Radix, Cravone City has everything you need for a great adventure that you’ll be talking about for days.

Take a subway ride in Cravone City today and see the gorgeous city skyline for yourself!

 

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

 

Linden Lab

SL18B Applications are Now Open for Volunteers!


Second Life Birthday

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Do you love Second Life? Do you love to party? Do you love to help? Join the SL18B Volunteer staff and you can do all three! 

We’re looking for volunteers to help people celebrate at the upcoming 18th annual Second Life birthday celebration (SL18B), held June 17th to July 1st, 2021. We are seeking Residents with great people skills and a love and excitement for Second Life to help us make SL18B a huge success! If you like the idea of promoting Second Life in a positive way to thousands of people in a celebratory atmosphere, we welcome you to apply today! The application will remain open through May 28th.

CURRENT APPLICATIONS FOR SL18B:

Over the next few months, keep an eye on our blog for more opportunities to participate in the SL18B celebrations as a Performer, Merchant, and more!

Tara Linden

Cory MM.png

This week's featured musician is Joel Eilde (Joel Tamas irl), who plays rock interspersed with little doses of jazz, country, and blues both inworld and with his band Red Heaven. He has played over 3,000 shows in SL over the last decade and encourages newcomers to join the unique virtual music scene.

Please check out the official Red Heaven website.

 

Q: When/how did you hear about Second Life?
A: Back in early 2007, I was working as a tech journalist and I was doing a week-long series about Second Life, which I had only just heard of at that point. So I made an account to jump in and try it out and… I stayed. Simple as that. 

Q: What instruments do you play, and what made you pick them up?
A: I sing, I play guitar, and I play bass. Like a lot of young adolescent males with unrealistic dreams of stardom, I picked up bass as a young teen and got more into guitar later on. I didn’t get singing for real until I started performing in Second Life in 2011. I had dabbled before, but never felt confident about my voice until I was in my 40s. Now I actually think of myself as a singer first, so things have really changed.

Q: Tell us the origin story of your band Red Heaven.
A: Red Heaven is, unequivocally, a Second Life success story. I started performing in Second Life because I wanted an option to play music without going to bars and all that malarkey. And doing so built up my skills really fast: singing, playing, songwriting, all of it. I really credit Second Life for being the woodshed that got me to the point where I could really make Red Heaven a proper real-life band. I honestly couldn’t have gotten to this point with the albums and real world live shows if I hadn’t been grinding in Second Life for so many years. 

Q: Are your bandmates also SL Residents?
A: Only one: Olga Zoubkova, whose SL name is Loreen Aldrin. She lives in Russia so she’s not part of my performing band, but she’s all over every single Red Heaven album. The others, I don’t think they have any idea what Second Life is. :)

Q: How has your relationship to creativity been affected by the last year?
A: Well, since January 2020 I’ve released two albums (with another to come this summer), started streaming live Facebook shows, did the biggest livestreamed full-band show of my life, and have been pounding out Second Life shows on the regular. So I guess I’d say it’s been pretty good, but I’m also one of those very lucky people who’s had tons of free time during the pandemic so far, and therefore it’s been easy for me to put it to good use doing what I love.

Q: What is the most meaningful aspect of the SL music community to you?
A: What I love more than anything and with all my heart is the absence of “stardom.” An ordinary person can just turn on their mic for an hour and play their acoustic guitar and sing, and they can get a legit following and even make a little money. That’s a beautiful thing to me; the way Second Life audiences embrace amateur music without celebrity. I don’t know any other audience that’s so open to and supportive of amateur music. And I honestly wish the world was more like Second Life in that way.

 

Thank you, Joel!

If you or somebody you know would like to submit content for Music Mondays, please fill out this form.
 

Strawberry Linden

Bella's Glade at Shara.jpg
Pictured: Bella's Glade at Shara

Each week, the Second Life Destination Guide editorial team reviews dozens of new locations and events worth exploring. With all those beautiful destinations to check out, we thought we’d highlight a few of the entries that stood out to the editorial team. Don't forget to check our Recently Added category to see all the latest additions to the Destination Guide!

April is around the corner and spring is in the air! We hope these nature-themed locations and innovative art galleries boost your creativity and sense of calm. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Got a spot that you’d like listed in the Destination Guide? Make sure to drop us a note at editor@lindenlab.com or submit your spot via web form.

Connect with Second Life on Social Media:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Flickr | Pinterest | Tumblr | Plurk | TikTok | Reddit | LinkedIn

Linden Lab

Football Made in Second Life


Second Life Destinations

This week Cyke Troglodite talks to us about the Global Football League, a fun and interactive way for fans of American Football to engage in virtual sports.

A longtime Resident, GFL owner Cyke Troglodite tells us he has "spent much of his 13 years in SL on the football field,” while in the physical world he is volunteering every Friday in his local Little League. 

For those curious about the mechanics of virtual sports, Cyke describes it as follows: “The experience is super realistic with football animations (throwing, catching, tackling, blocking), score-keeping, authentic field and outfits  that make the experience that much more realistic. The only significant difference is that nine players are used per team rather than 11 as in RL.”

GFL is currently in the middle of season two with four teams. If you’d like to join, please check out the GFL Offices & Welcome Center, as recruitment is active for more teams as the league grows.

GFL games stream live on YouTube, so feel free to check out some previous footage while it’s still up. Cyke assures us that the matches in SL can be played virtually without lag due to “descripting of all players beforehand. A viewing party for each game happens at a separate inworld location." Cyke and the GFL organizers are dedicated to making this a fun experience for both participants and spectators. 

There are even halftime parties and cheerleaders, so if you are missing the rush of a crowd going wild over fumbles and fakeouts, head over to catch a GFL game soon! Virtual sports are a great way for people of varying ages, physical abilities, and skill levels to get involved and play the game.

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

 

 

Tara Linden

Randall MM square.png

Photo taken at The Magic Happens Here

This week's featured artist is Randal Prater, a multi-instrumentalist who plays dreamy and cinematic indie pop in both RL and SL. You may also know him as Linus Radford, his original SL persona, as he's been a Resident for about 14 years! He just released a new album called Solo Seasons, so please check out his music on Spotify and YouTube.

 

Q: When/how did you hear about Second Life?
A: This would have been January of 2007. I had just finished being the frontman for The Pagan States, and before that, Creeping Myrtle. I was just starting to record my first solo album, 'Falling to Pisces.' I didn't want to fall into the rut of losing my live chops and get rusty while in the recording studio. So, I was looking for a way to play solo acoustic shows while also making progress on my new album since it would be the first time I'd be playing all the instruments myself instead of relying on bandmates.

My wife discovered an article about a virtual world where you could be yourself and be seen by only your pixels (an avatar). She saw that musicians were playing shows in there and that I should have a look. So, once I dove in and did my own research, I discovered that there were lots of singer-songwriters out there in the exact boat I was in, or at least in the same proverbial harbor. Juel Resistance (Suzen Juel) was the first artist I discovered and then it snowballed from there. My second album (Second Tuesday of Never) actually features a lot of other Second Life artists, including Suzen. Anyway, I started playing shows in SL and did so until 2010 when it became too painful to play guitar anymore. So, I reinvented myself as a part-time piano player just so I could keep writing and recording songs.

Q: What instruments do you play, and how did music come into your life?
A: Back when I had fewer physical limitations, I'd play whatever instrument in the studio that needed playing. I don't think I got proficient at any of them since I'm completely self-taught. But, I did a passable job on most things I tried. That said, it is quite painful to my ears and ego whenever I listen back to myself on drums or harmonica.

My origin story starts in the womb when my mom played nonstop early Beatles records for nine months. It was a foregone conclusion that I'd end up being some kind of musician or artist. When I was a little kid, I wanted to be George Harrison. Then once I got to high school, I wanted to be John Lennon. Unfortunately for myself and the whole world, that's when he was cruelly taken away from us. But, if there's one singer-songwriter that ever existed that sums up most of what I'm trying to say through my own songs, it's definitely John.

Q: How do you decide what visuals to go for in music videos, and how does the music inform it?
A: I love that question and already feel like my answer will fall short. But, here goes... This was the first album where I decided I wanted a video for every song and not just one or two. I did the videos by following the track order. So, track one was done first and the final track was done last. I think I got better at video editing by the end. Anyway, the one thread that tied the videos together was that each one had a cameo by one or more crows. Sometimes, it only lasts for a split second, so the viewer has to pay attention. I remember Alfred Hitchcock always made a similar cameo in his old films, and he had a film called The Birds. So, that's likely where I got my idea to tie it all together that way. Of course, it also helps that the final track is called 'Full Crow Moon.'

Q: Who are some cool musicians that you've discovered over the last year?
A: If you'd said the past decade, that would be much easier. I tend to stick with a songwriter for a while. So, if they come out with an album one year that speaks to me, chances are good that I'll also be interested in their fifth album. Since nothing I've discovered in the past twelve months rivals what I've discovered in the past five to ten years, I'll say that my favorite current singer-songwriter is Angus Stone, who mostly records and performs with his sister Julia. My favorite band is Doves. Their album The Universal Want is hands down my favorite from 2020. Since Wolf Alice is finally putting out a new album in 2021, I predict that will be my favorite for this year. Stay tuned. I'd be remiss in leaving out my dear friend, and sometime collaborator, Bruce Lash. He's got albums in both years and they're fab.
 
Q: Describe the creation of your album Solo Seasons and your creative vision for your music in general.
A: Thank you for specifically mentioning my latest album. It was my first one in six years, and the first one that I played all the parts myself, since the first solo record. This time everything was played on keys, even the drum parts, so it was easy to just write and record the whole thing by myself in the crypt (my basement studio). As with every solo album, the theme was dictated by the number. This was the fourth record, so ‘four seasons' seemed like a decent theme. That meant two songs for every season, eight in total. I just mapped it out like that. So, the first two songs on the album are about springtime and the final two tracks are about winter. I'm very methodical when it comes to details and making sure everything is in its proper place (even when usually I'm the only one who will notice).

Q: What is the most meaningful aspect of the SL music community to you?
A: While it's admittedly been a minute since I was playing shows myself, I'll say from a fan's perspective that it's a great world to be a part of. Especially during this era where most of us are spending even more time in the house than before, it's my current way of providing some semblance of normalcy to my weirdly wired brain. I can just walk around in SL and catch a show and be shoulder to shoulder with other concertgoers without wearing a mask or worrying about anything other than which show I am going to see when there are at least three good ones going during any given hour. So, it's easy to be grateful to the virtual world of Second Life and all the tireless work and creation of the music community, and all artists in general.

 

Thank you, Randal! If you or somebody you know would like to submit content for Music Mondays, please fill out this form.

Strawberry Linden

The Outer Garden.jpg
Pictured: The Outer Garden

Each week, the Second Life Destination Guide editorial team reviews dozens of new locations and events worth exploring. With all those beautiful destinations to check out, we thought we’d highlight a few of the entries that stood out to the editorial team. Don't forget to check our Recently Added category to see all the latest additions to the Destination Guide!

This week we have a number of fun, educational, and interesting events, along with some very scenic destinations. 

 

 

Watch today's Lab Gab with Faust Saenz speaking about the International Day of Happiness event and the Positivite Change Circle!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Got a spot that you’d like listed in the Destination Guide? Make sure to drop us a note at editor@lindenlab.com or submit your spot via web form.

Connect with Second Life on Social Media:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Flickr | Pinterest | Tumblr | Plurk | TikTok | Reddit | LinkedIn

Linden Lab

SL18B Applications are Now Open for Exhibitors!


Second Life Birthday

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Save the date! This June, Second Life will be turning 18! The 18th annual Second Life birthday celebration (SL18B) will be held from June 17th to July 1st. Get ready for fun-filled weeks of live music, performances, shopping, and amazing community exhibits!

This year’s theme for SL18B is Hidden Worlds, but don’t think that limits you! Just like last year, your exhibit does not need to stay in theme. If you are inspired by the thought of the hidden worlds around you, show us! Or, share your Second Life passions with us. Your interests. Your communities. Your worlds! Every year we celebrate because of you, the amazing and creative Residents, who have chosen to call Second Life home. What has drawn you into this world and what keeps you here? This year at the eighteenth annual Second Life Birthday, show us what fuels your Second Life and inspires you. Let's go exploring!

If you want to participate as an exhibitor with a presence at SL18B then please join us by filling out the exhibitor form no later than May 28th (this date has now changed to May 10th). Please note that the rules for exhibitors have been updated this year, so it is important to read them even if you have participated in SLB before. The rules can be found at the top of the application form.


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Photo by Junie

As a reminder, we are also still seeking Live Musicians. We previously announced a call for audition signups for the SL18B Music Fest - and those applications remain open through March 28th.

Over the next few months, keep an eye on our blog for more opportunities to participate in the SL18B celebrations as a Performer, Volunteer, Merchant, and more!
 

Strawberry Linden

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“Lab Gab” is a live-streamed variety show that showcases events, destinations, and different talents across Second Life. Join our host, Strawberry Linden on Friday, March 19th at 10:15am PT as she speaks with Faust Saenz, the organizer of the International Day of Happiness event.

The International Day of Happiness event in Second Life will be held on Saturday, March 20th from 8:30am to 3pm PT, with educational speakers, live music, poetry, and plays.

Watch the show live Friday, March 19th at 10:15am PT on YouTube, Facebook, or Periscope!

For full episodes of Lab Gab, click over to the Lab Gab YouTube Playlist

Linden Lab

Second Life Destinations: The Far Away


Second Life Destinations

This week we encourage you to get lost in the tall grass of The Far Away, a bucolic reverie that has been a special hideaway for Residents since 2007.

This charming and old-timey region was originally created as “The Wheatfield” by painter/photographer/coder Jeffrey Berg, who goes by AM Radio in Second Life. Shortly after, in an interview with Bettina Tizzy, AM explained that “I wanted to challenge people's idea of place. We have so many preconceptions of space. What is a sidewalk, what is a house, what is a trail, what is a cave? We've evolved our sense of space and place. What better place than SL to challenge it?”

His challenge was accepted; the soothing, yet thought-provoking atmosphere of The Wheatfield has been cherished by many Residents over the years. In fact, AM Radio and some other well-known SL artists were even mentioned in New York Times Magazine in 2009. Over the years, AM Radio has built 14 regions in SL, and many Residents have been inspired by his style. Strawberry Linden expressed her appreciation for his work in a blog post a few years before joining Linden Lab.

The region is now called “The Far Away,” and is hosted by the couple Ziki Questi and Kinnaird Fiachra on the region Dreamworld North, which is part of the Dreamworld estate owned by Count Burks. Ziki says she was drawn to it because, “to me, The Far Away is a seminal work of virtual art. Evocative and timeless, it laid the groundwork for other striking and more expansive works by AM Radio such as The Quiet and Surface, all of which now survive only in images and memory. Kinn and I are delighted to preserve and maintain The Far Away for the enjoyment of the SL community.”

Kinnaird recalls being brought here by a friend on her first day in SL: “I was not a gamer, and the whole concept of being inworld was a bit disorienting, but I remember my friend leaving me at The Far Away when he had to go AFK, saying, "you'll be safe here.””

The Far Away is a living virtual relic that has a peaceful ambiguity capable of meaning something different to every visitor. What will it mean to you? Visit today to find out. With hidden poses and interactive elements scattered throughout, who knows what your journey might lead to.

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

 

Strawberry Linden

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Pictured: Tonarino

Each week, the Second Life Destination Guide editorial team reviews dozens of new locations and events worth exploring. With all those beautiful destinations to check out, we thought we’d highlight a few of the entries that stood out to the editorial team. Don't forget to check our Recently Added category to see all the latest additions to the Destination Guide!

Here are 8 picturesque locations, 2 incredible art installations, and 3 exciting shopping events all waiting for you to explore this weekend!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Got a spot that you’d like listed in the Destination Guide? Make sure to drop us a note at editor@lindenlab.com or submit your spot via web form.

Connect with Second Life on Social Media:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Flickr | Pinterest | Tumblr | Plurk | TikTok | Reddit | LinkedIn

Strawberry Linden

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“Lab Gab” is a live-streamed variety show that showcases events, destinations, and different talents across Second Life. Join our host, Strawberry Linden on Friday, March 12th at 11am PT as she speaks with the founder and curator of The GBTH Project, Marina Munter (vivresavie).

The GBTH Project is a concept gallery and also part of the Community Gateway Program. Marina will tell us more about it, and then take us on a brief tour. 

Watch us live on YouTube, Facebook, or Periscope

For full episodes of Lab Gab, click over to the Lab Gab YouTube Playlist

Linden Lab

Second Life Destinations: A Taste of Bali and Japan


Second Life Destinations

This week we are visiting a region inspired by the sumptuous beaches of Bali and the tranquility of Japanese zen gardens.

Creator Rosie Helendale has been a Second Life Resident for 13 years and says that for her, SL has been both a vital social network as well as a creative outlet “to turn my imagination into some form of virtual visualization.” Rosie tells us that she has met some of her closest friends in SL, and is an active participant in art and recreation. “From photography, creating content, choreographing my own dance routines, performing in dance shows, creating regions with friends, to memorializing it all on my own personal YouTube channel.”

After some experiences helping her friends build regions in SL, a few months ago Rosie was finally able to accomplish her dream of creating her own. While Rosie has a deep appreciation for Japanese culture, she says that her friend Guy Bagshawe “has in-depth firsthand experience and knowledge of everything Bali, and his enthusiasm for the place got me totally hooked on it.  From those two things sprang my inspiration to create an interpretation and representation of Bali and Japan.”

The Bali portion is drenched in the rosy glow of a beachside sunset. Enjoy a meal or a cocktail in the open air restaurant a few paces from the shore. A bit of exploration will lead you to a chicken coop and an open courtyard with baboons grooming each other all around you.

In case that wasn’t relaxing enough, the Japanese side of the region has tai chi poseballs in the zen garden, and make sure to look for the adorable baby panda.

Rosie tells us “one of my favorite content creators is Skye for landscaping: their content is high quality with attention to detail.” However, some of the items found here were crafted by Rosie herself. “The items in the souvenir kiosks at the tai chi garden and monkey forest I made myself using full perm items from the marketplace. You can even click the postcard rack and send a postcard to friends inworld just like you would if you were on a visit in real life!”

Rosie would like us to know that “the best way to see all the attractions is to hop on the balloon tour. It takes you to every part of the island and gives out real life information about each area in local chat.” See the deep blue waters for yourself by visiting A Taste of Bali and Japan today.

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

 

 

Tara Linden

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This week's featured artist is Oblee, whose performances in SL center around live looping to create a unique experience for the audience every time. 

Please check out his music on his official website, as well as his social media below:

Spotify
Facebook
SoundCloud
BandCamp

 

Q: When/how did you hear about Second Life?
A: I heard about Second Life shortly after its release, but didn't spend any time inworld until late 2007. It was an exciting time to be there! I had some friends in France who had done a little machinima pilot in SL and wanted me to do some voices. That's when my current avatar was born. At the time I was playing drums in a few touring bands and was looking for a way to play live, original music to people around the world without having to sit in a van with 5 other grimy musicians. I was becoming the prototypical and annoying drummer gone solo and SL was my accomplice. 

Q: Your music is hard to define. What genres would you say it draws from?
A: Thank you! I think that in part, a lot of my original music was born in SL, or at least born when my mind was often in SL. As far as a specific influential genre, I really can't say. I've never been very proficient at describing music or knowing which genre was which. I'm a lousy critic, and can usually find something I like about any piece of music. That said, I think the musicians I look up to the most are the ones who just did what they were going to do without commercial pressure. I've never heard music that didn't influence me in one way or another. 
 
Q: Who are some of the musicians that have influenced your style?
A: The musicians I've heard! While I say that with some degree of humor, I really have been influenced by everything I've heard. I do hear bands like The Cure or artists like Tom Waits pop up in my original material, and the band The The was always an inspiration to be a self-produced one man band kind of act. A lot of the musicians with whom I've played in bands have influenced my style and my attitude toward songwriting. The Country/Americana songwriter Sand Sheff was a huge influence on me personally and professionally, and all this after my first words to him were "I hate country music!" I guess in the end, the artists who have influenced me most were the ones I perceived as authentic or honest, playing their music because it was burning a hole out of them instead of playing it to seek some kind of commercial success. All this aside, I think that a lot of non musical things have affected my musical style as well, the natural world in particular. I used to describe my music as like the "house music on the Millennium Falcon" in an attempt to say it respected the old and the new, the classic and the modern, technology and nature, all at the same time. 

Q: What type of equipment do you use?
A: At this point? OLD equipment! I've recently become a parent, which has, predictably, stopped my impulse buying of musical equipment and instruments. I use a Boomerang III looper run on a sub mix from a 16 channel mixing board. Into that looper goes a DW drum set, a few acoustic guitars, an electric bass guitar, a handful of vintage synthesizers, an upright piano, congas, djembes, bongos, and whatever else I can get my hands on. I'm not much of a gear head, and feel like the "feeling" far outweighs the instruments, but I am slightly addicted to old synthesizers. Outside the mixer I use the normal rack full of compressors, gates, and effects units to make a hopefully bearable, radio-like sound to my live performances. The looper itself has no permanent memory or click track or other bells and whistles. It is just a bare bones machine that records and plays. One of the reasons I've stuck with that particular looper is the fact that it has no safety net. Once a song is over, it's all erased forever. Mistakes can be song-ending and quite embarrassing. I think the potential for catastrophic, embarrassing failure is what makes live music live music. {In SL, Oblee likes to use Thunk equipment.}
 
Q: Tell us about your favorite experience playing live in SL.
A: I've had some amazing times in SL. Some of the most fun was on those wild nights quad-streaming with Los Federales, or dual streams with Beth Odets. (Ask her about what I did on her birthday.) Apart from the musical collaborations, my favorite experience, in a broad sense, is having an audience who wants to hear my original music. An audience who is listening, often alone, at home, is so much different than a real life bar audience because they notice musical nuances and they actually hear the lyrics to songs. I've had a lot more audience members tell me they liked the lyrics to a song in SL than I have in RL. The first time someone IM'd that the sim is full and they couldn't get in was a wild and exciting experience. It was so nice that I now play homestead sims as often as possible.  After all these years, I have trouble pointing to specific moments in time as the best times, but I can say with confidence that it is the people that make those moments. Playing the SL birthday celebrations has always been a highlight to the year, and one of those moments that I am very proud to be a part of such a vibrant community. Oh yeah, Simon's party for the solstice was a real hoot!

 
Q: What is the most meaningful aspect of the SL music community to you?
A: Musicians need an audience. At the end of the day, I think we all write and perform music as an act of communication. The music industry can be a cruel beast, and a lot of times a musician's ability to reach a larger audience is inexorably tied to their location and/or willingness to take enormous risks. The Second Life community tears down a lot of those barriers and is a loving and supportive group who gives artists a place to shine, sell their music, and perform. I often say that my original music was born in SL and that is very true. When my paying gigs in RL demanded playing popular cover songs, my SL audiences were encouraging me to write more and cover less. I'm eternally grateful for the people I've met playing music in SL.

 

Oblee was also featured in the Drax Files, a Destination Guide video, and his local paper.

 

Thank you, Oblee!

 

If you or someone you know would like to submit content to be featured in Music Mondays, please fill out this form.
 

Linden Lab

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Photo by Junie

This June, Second Life will be turning 18! Work is already happening to make sure that this year’s 18th birthday celebration is better than ever!

Full details of this year’s SL18B event will be revealed soon...but to get things started we are opening up the sign-up process now for auditions for the annual Music Fest, to be held June 17-19. Music Fest will kick off the overall SL18B celebration with three days of live music performances featuring some of the most talented musicians in SL!

Are you a new or veteran Second Life musician that wants to participate? Over a dozen performers will be chosen to share their musical talents with the Second Life community in an event that has become an SLB tradition. We welcome performers to apply and join us in wishing Second Life "Happy Birthday!"

To sign up for an audition, please complete the submission form. Applications are open until March 28th, 2021.

While we encourage all interested performers to sign up, please note that it does not guarantee a spot at the auditions. We will review all submissions and extend audition invitations via a follow-up note in-world to the SL username that you provide. For more details, see the submission form.

Over the next few months, keep an eye on our blog for more opportunities to participate in the SL18B celebrations as an Exhibitor, Performer, Volunteer, Merchant, and more!
 

Strawberry Linden

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Lab Gab” is a live-streamed variety show that showcases events, destinations, and different talents across Second Life. Join our host, Strawberry Linden on Friday, March 5th at 11am PT as she speaks with Lindsley Allen and Jon Nakagawa.

Lindsley is a creative producer, director, choreographer, mentor, and dance educator. She is a founding member of Pussycat Dolls and the creator of Cherry Boom Boom

Jon is the owner of Paragon Dance Animations, a Hollywood-based production company founded by professionals in the movie industry. Paragon brings the talents of accomplished and high-profile dancers to life in virtual reality, by specializing in the production of dance animations for Second Life.

Recently Lindsley teamed up with Paragon and held a Second Life Director’s Contest, announcing the winner just this past weekend. Check out the winning video!

 

Cherry Boom Boom has also choreographed a dance number using a motion capture suit, coming soon to Paragon Animations! See behind the scenes footage on their YouTube channel:

 

Tune in on Friday, March 5th at 11am PT. Watch us live on YouTube, Facebook, or Periscope!

For full episodes of Lab Gab, click over to the Lab Gab YouTube Playlist

 

Linden Lab

Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of primitives made of all shapes, colors, and sizes. Today we take a deep dive into the colorful art installation, Cells by Moki Yuitza at The Sim Quarterly. 

Moki Yuitza is a master prim manipulator using those basic Second Life building blocks to create complex and colorful immersive art in Second Life since discovering our world in 2008. Art has always been an important part of Moki’s life, but she doesn’t consider herself an artist, rather a good craftsman. Second Life is her infinite blank space, a sandbox as it is, and prims and lights are her brushes and colors. 

Cells is Moki’s latest gift to the Second Life art world, currently housed in The Sim Quarterly, which is owned and curated by Electric Monday.

The mission of The Sim Quarterly is to bring art and immersive installations to Second Life. Every three months a new artist is invited to share their creativity in a region-wide 3D installation that can consist of original art or scenic builds, with one thing in common - they have to be experiential. The visitor will use more than one sense while there, fully immersed inside the art rather than merely looking at it.

Visit Cells today and let your senses do the exploring.

 

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

 

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