Welcome to 2012, everyone. 2011 went in a flash, and without much action from this blog, but since for many of us this year marks the start of our Masters programmes, I thought it would be a good time to re-ignite some talk and posturing from the depths of studio.
Things have changed a bit, though.
We've got degrees! That means we're heading toward a self directed phase in our studies, and from my perspective, have different needs from this blog than we had when we started it.
For the next couple of years, what I hope will come of Critters is a way to document research forays into thesis topics and those brilliant tangential finds that come to light along the way. I think it would be hugely beneficial for everyone to create an accessible compendium of their notes, thoughts, and images they unearth in the process. Make it readily visible and open; don't bury your thoughts and sketches in the inadmissible (and susceptible to damage and loss) solid states and hard drives.
I think, through our Critters community, we can really easily create a supportive and constructive forum for our final years. I have recently set-up a new tumblr, www.archcritters.tumblr.com. It has no content yet, but I will start to gather material for it in the coming weeks, and use it as a platform for sharing images, ideas, and discussions. It won't completely replace this blog, but its visual nature and easy interface makes it easier for use as a notebook of sorts, and is easier for lots of people to be involved. For instance, there's no reason why students of other universities can't contribute.
Want to participate?
1) Set up a tumblr.
2) Follow archcritters on tumblr.
3) Start adding content at will.
Voila!
It will take a month or two for this to find its feet as we get reacquainted with the library, but I believe this will be an effortless and fun way to get in on the action. Pardon the changing-around of themes and things in the next little while as I try to figure out an optimal (read: cool) way of displaying everything.
Amanda
A discussion forum for the students at the school of Architecture and Design of VUW.
