About the Artist
How did you hear about Citizens for Global Solutions Flash Contest?
I heard about the Citizens for Global Solutions Flash Contest while looking for scholarships on FastWeb.com.
Was this your first Flash piece? How did you first learn Flash?
This animation was only my fourth experiment with Flash. I have been slowly learning the program through various web page design classes at SCAD. It’s an exciting program that allows for experimentation in an interactive environment.
How did you choose your topic –OR- Why is your topic important to you?
The topic I chose is one that I support wholeheartedly. I began doing research a couple of years ago when I was assigned a poster design assignment that related to a social awareness issue of my choosing. In my hometown, wind energy is a popular topic that has allowed for the city of Moorhead to construct two wind turbines of its own. It’s important because putting an end to non-renewable energy sources is a giant step in the topic of consumption and sustainability. In my research, wind energy is the safest and most effective way to put an end to the coal-dependent plants we use so heavily now.
Before the contest, did you consider yourself fairly knowledgeable about global issues? Has this contest opened your eyes in any way?
I did consider myself fairly knowledgeable on this subject before the contest because of the extensive research I did for a previous class assignment.
However, I did learn some new facts specifically about coal plants and how harmful they really are to our air and atmosphere. In my research I also uncovered many news bulletins and articles that indicate poor political decisions in the quest for more sustainable energy solutions. Ultimately I think the political sphere is where the biggest change has to occur, but for politicians to listen they need to hear the public’s demand for cleaner air, which is why I believe it’s important to “act locally” and create a public demand for wind energy.
Did you have any weird, funny, horrible, or in some other way memorable moments during the making of your Flash piece for this contest?
Originally I created the movie with the song, “We Will Become Silhouettes” by the Postal Service in the background. The song itself is perfect for the topic and fits flawlessly with the animation sequence. It added a different personality to the animation that I wish still existed in this version. However, I couldn’t use the song since there was a restriction against copyrighted material in the rules. Nothing really weird happened, but it was a great experience that allowed me to create something I’m very proud of and I hope others enjoy it as well.
Any last words/Anything else you’d like for us and the flash viewers to know?
I hope viewers like the animation. I’m not an expert in Flash, but I am gradually learning and hopefully will be more comfortable with the program as I build experience. It makes me very excited when I can use the knowledge and education I’ve gathered for something that is progressive and beneficial. As I realize more than ever the benefits of sustainability and living a “green” life, I want to educate others on these benefits and opportunities that await society when we become more conscious about the decisions we make. Be they small or large, our decisions and demands will shape the future of our world and make it a future worth saving.
