Is it possible an area positioned two and a half miles east of downtown Atlanta houses an little-known artistic movement comparable to the Post-Impressionist movement of France? Or are all the eccentric individuals simply intoxicated bums who attempt to appear artistic? The area in question: Little Five Points, an urban strip mall that houses an arrangement of café-style restaurants, clothing shops and tattoo parlors. Parlors that house an abundance of people who can easily be classified as strange.

During my visit to Little Five Points, I could not help but notice the repeated stereotypes. Groups, however different, all embodied similar characteristics: exposed tattoos and piercings, dark clothes and sometimes the smell of poor personal hygiene. And all of them seemed to have an abundance of disposable time.

Famous Post-Impressionists exhibited qualities similar to those of today’s Five Points slummer. Artists like Vincent Van Gogh, Paul Cezanne and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec all lived in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, where the Moulin Rouge and many popular Bohemian cafés were located. The cafés served absinthe, a high-proof alcoholic beverage rumored to contain psychoactive ingredients. Now largely banned, this beverage, along with opium and other illicit drugs, were not uncommon among artists during that period.

Many artists struggled to produce money for their art and their addictions. In fact, during their lives, most famous Post-Impressionists were deemed outcasts and bums.

However, I could never picture Van Gogh stepping out of a taxi and yelling to his friend, “I’ll never take ecstasy again!”

Little Five Points is a different story.

Have you noticed a peculiar line that has popped up in recent films, whether main stream or independent, that sounds something like, “You are a strong, confident, beautiful, independent woman”? It’s usually uttered by the female protagonist’s best friend before the climax. You know, the line that’s been shallowly used in every recent female-centric romantic movie and TV show as often and contrived as “All Out of Love” or Sarah McLachlan’s “Angel?”

At least three recent movies proudly show this line in their previews (“Sunshine Cleaning,” “The Women” and “Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2.”). Does anyone else agree that our recent romantic movies have suffered in quality?

Ladies, I am not being guy-cynical (yeah, I have body hair, and I’m sorry I will never ever experience the brink-of-passing-out “joy” of bringing a life into this world), but I am by no means a testosterone-leaking Yeti who snorts “babe” jokes, always forgetting about lifting up ringlets. I am not a Lifetime stereotype.

I am just a guy, a very concerned guy, who has witnessed the signs of decline within the genre commonly referred to as “chick flicks” or “girl shows,” and I would like to share my observations with you, Expressionist style. I hope you will share your opinions about this phenomenon, as well.

First off, of course “The Notebook,” “The Devil Wears Prada” and “Atonement” were great. Now, please think of another five original, high-quality romantic movies released in this decade.

Maybe “Failure to Launch” or “How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days.” Sure, they were good, and (breaking from the reality that I am 1,000 percent man) McConaughey does have … well, build … (Yes! I still have it). So these two are effortlessly filled with Southern charm. But after these, I believe we’ll have a problem naming movies.

I don’t think Hollywood has offered anything original or daring in the romantic genre this decade. I mean, after all, the three “great” romantic blockbusters listed above are all based on popular and original books.

They are still good, but they don’t have too many surprising points to give you a satisfying dose of serendipity, awe or inspiration, like “Pretty Woman,” “As Good as It Gets,” “When Harry Met Sally,” or “Notting Hill.” Yes, MacConaughey movies also definitely suffered in quality this year.

Sadly, in this decade, we merely see many screenwriters desperately trying to reuse the tried formulas of older popular titles to guarantee a safer financial success. Heck, Jack Nicholson nearly reprised the same grouchy character from “As Good as It Gets” in “Somebody Gotta Give.” The only difference is measured in wrinkles.

Now, all is predictable. There’s always the bet or the lie on the first date that break up the relationship. Why we always choose macho, insensitive morons as the male protagonist is beyond anybody’s reason.

There’s usually a relationship “break,” until either the female protagonist’s confidante persuades her to be brave and independent and choose the right man in her life. Sometimes the two unmemorable protagonists get together out of public sympathy. Anyone can see it all from a mile away. In terms of taking liberties with the plot and the established characters, romantic movies simply aren’t as daring as superhero movies.

TV shows are suffering nearly the same problems, with the exception of a few.

Hooray for those of you who watches “Grey’s Anatomy.” The first two seasons are a true testament of genuine acting and writing, especially the masterfully paced second season, in which the Mc-Relationship triangle falters and an unforgettable guest star disappears in a pink mist (don’t even get me started with Danny). The entire ensemble shined and the fast paced plot delivered effortlessly.

But from the third season on, I hope you became as frustrated as I did when repetitive, serious dialogue sank in and many of the previously loveable doctors lost their charm. Izzy slept with George because of public demand, and the lovely Dr. Montgomery-Sheppard moved to a hospital where the word “sex” was spoken more than “the.” This marked the end of an amazing run of a daring show; only the template remains. Maybe “The Hills” is your next choice, but I am almost sure you only vaguely identified with the OC-like, Hiltonesque girls of the show, and of course it’s scripted.

I am pointing out these problems because I deeply believe this trend has mellowed the performance potential of some of the most talented starlets of Hollywood, including Amy Adams, Emily Blunt, Ann Hathaway and Ellen Page.

More importantly, the ruinous nature of this clichéd patter affects you, ladies. To have to identify with one-dimensional characters and routinely subject yourselves to unstimulating entertainment only lowers the standard of quality Hollywood will present to you.

Just because women are the primary target audience does not mean women have to give in to Hollywood’s formulas. In fact, their shallow teen dramas shouldn’t represent you in the eyes of others and the world. You are artists with your own discoveries, neat collections and moral bearings — and far too amazing to be type-casted as an underrepresented soulless clone. Reinvigorate this genre and make them listen to you.

I look forward to hearing your opinions.

Sketch by Jaylene Singer

As the weather gets cooler, we start to face the same problems we do every year. Adapting to a new season can be overwhelming especially when the fashion industry throws so many trends and looks at us all at once. When the weather changes all of a sudden, we need quite a few more items than we had in the spring and summer. It’s not as easy as throwing on a chic sundress and heading out the door. Plus, fall and winter require a few more layers. There are so many choices, so many points of view. So how does the style-conscious decide which direction to go?

I’ve noticed season after season, the best way to embrace new trends is to pick a few and incorporate them into the pieces you already have. Fall 2008 is no exception. There’s a fine line between looking stylish and looking like a trend follower, so it’s best to limit one or two new looks and blend them into your outfit so they’re not blatantly obvious.

We’ve all passed by that girl wearing a newsboy cap, leggings, fur boots, a studded belt, a fitted vest and hoop earrings all at once and, shaking our heads, we wonder if she bought everything in the store. The key to being well-dressed is a combination of one’s own personal style and trend moderation from season to season. Now, let’s look at some of the most prominent trends, themes and ideas for fall 2008.

Goth undertones appeared in several fall collections. Black has remained timeless and is a go-to color for designers every season because of its versatility and slimming capabilities, but fall 2008 gives it an edgy twist.

Black lace has appeared on Claudia Schiffer’s hands through elbow-length gloves in Chanel’s ad campaigns. The LBD, or little black dress, has been vamped up, with an added risqué feel to the pretty black lace.

Leather is making its way back, as well, in everything from leather bomber jackets to tight leather pants. Leather is everywhere this season.

Accessories include anything studded, jagged or just plain rough-looking. Going goth does not just restrict itself to clothing. Looking dark in hair and make-up is another aspect. Snow White-like porcelain skin with ruby-red lips, thick eye make-up and black, glossy hair is the typical look, as mastered by Dita von Teese. Several variations can be done and played up for this look, and you can look chic without being mistaken for a Marilyn Manson groupie. British model Daisy Lowe embodies that with her I-didn’t-brush-my-hair-today look and her big kohl-lined doe-eyes to contrast her pale skin.

Despite previous seasons that have favored very girly designs like baby-doll dresses with mini proportions, now is the time to focus on feminine yet grown-up details and silhouettes. Paying homage to ’30s, ’40s and ’50s beauties like Ava Gardner and Katharine Hepburn, it’s all about keeping it classy, as hemlines have fallen to or below the knees. Silhouettes are more body-conscious in the close tailored fit with pretty, A-line dresses. Blouses with details, such as bows and ruffles paired, high-waisted trousers and pencil skirts, delicate gloves, cardigans and capes can complete this look, as well.

This season, it’s about presenting yourself as a woman with subtle prettiness. As a contrast to the previous messy and goth look, being ladylike means good grooming with such styles as soft fingered waves, a slick bun, straight hair with bounce and volume, and soft natural make-up.

Less is more. Classic shapes and looks are hard to beat. How great is it to throw together a white T-shirt with jeans and a tailored blazer and be the chicest girl in the room. None of the excess is necessary. Minimalism with simple silhouettes and neutral colors prove to work. Nicolas Ghesquière did Balenciaga’s fall 2008 with his brilliant sculptural collection, which included molded black dress, armband sleeves, and slits on the sides of dresses and skirts.

A variation of hats has popped up, and it’s a great way to keep warm, whether they’re dramatic as the Carolina Herrera fedoras topped off with mile-long feathers, or as simple as the colored beanies that can be found at Urban Outfitters. Fedoras are here to stay again this fall and have just made their transition from summer, turning from straw texture to heavier, darker fabrics. Other hats include Charlie Chaplin bowler hats, French berets and ’20s flapper cloches.

Seventies-style hippie headbands were popular in the summer, and it seems like they’re staying for the fall. Headpieces of all kinds adorned with feathers and other high-quality trinkets are popular.

This fall season is more special than most because of the presidential election. Just like the rest of the country, fashionistas are enthralled and obsessed with the outcome of this election. Not since Jackie Kennedy back in the ’60s has there been a glaring relevance to politics and fashion. Who are they wearing? We want our leaders to be smart and stylish at the same time.

We held our breath in awe when Michelle Obama announced that she was wearing a Thakoon Panichgul dress at her husband’s rally or when Cindy McCain said she was partial to Escada and Oscar de le Renta. How about when the Republican Party dropped $75,000 on designer labels at Neiman Marcus for Sarah Palin and her family? The Capitol has seen enough power suits to last a lifetime. Right, Hillary? Red, white and blue is not going away anytime soon.

Despite living in a small village of about 300 people in the countryside, there are many activities to do on the weekends in Lacoste. Almost every weekend, we go on field trips to various places.

At the beginning of the quarter, we went to des Forêts de Cédres, a forest with a trail. Walking through a mass of trees can be boring, but sometimes it brings surprises. After walking for a while, I came across a land with very few trees. Moments later, I realized I was surrounded by magnificent mountains! Walking along the cliff of des des Forêts de Cédres was so surreal that I paused to take several pictures. Many other students snapped pictures, too. There were lots of lush green mountains and rocks. Rocks, grass and trees together make a colorful landscape in to the region.

Another weekend, we went to Mont Ventoux, the highest mountain in the Lacoste’s Luberon region. Just like in des Forêts de Cédres, I was surrounded by mountains while standing atop Mont Ventoux. Unlike des Forêts de Cédres, people can ride bikes to the top of the Mont Ventoux.

Visiting European markets is always an experience. One weekend, I went to Isle –sur-la Sorgue, another village in the Luberon region. Every Sunday, there is a giant market that is a feast for the senses. There are fresh bread, croissants, lavenders, chicken, and honey. Besides food and flowers, there are also paintings, jewelry, scarves and clothes. Not only looking at the products is enjoyable, I also love the fine art of negotiation. I was looking at an item, and the vendor said, “I’ll sell it to you for 2 euros less!” I was immediately sold.

One Friday afternoon, a group of students and I walked to explore a village about three miles from Lacoste. While a three-miles walk seems lengthy, it was quite an adventure as I got to explore the farmlands. I saw vineyards, homes made of limestone, cypress trees lining the field, and road signs much different from those in the United States.

By Rachel Chaikof

“I’m so jealous that you’re going to be away during the election hype,” my mother told me shortly before I left for my travels in Europe.

Actually, I didn’t really get to escape the election hype at all. Every time I walked into a newspaper shop, I saw Barack Obama or John McCain on the cover of many of the newspapers and magazines in Lacoste. During my visits with my French friends and host families, we watched the news, and coverage of the presidential race was always on the air. They all asked my opinions about the election, and they expressed theirs. When I went into stores and a cashier recognized that I was American, he or she would say, “I hope Obama wins!”

My Facebook news feed was filled with political debates and status updates from people saying to “Vote for…” and many proudly posted an image of their preferred candidate as their profile picture.

My e-mail inbox was flooded with e-mails from family members and friends discussing various election topics. My mother sent me an Obama T-shirt. A journalist from a radio station in France interviewed me and a few other SCAD-Lacoste students about the election. One of the top conversations at the table in the dining hall was about the campaign.

The only thing I missed was the television ads, which I would still have missed if I were in U.S., as I hardly watch TV.
I voted on an absentee ballot and I certainly did join the election hype on Election Day. I was in the computer lab all night long with another SCAD student until just past 6:30 a.m., glued to the election coverage on New York Times, CNN and ABC News. I also was on Facebook, communicating with friends about the election.

The minute Obama’s victory was announced I joined the celebration along with other people around the world by simply screaming “Yes! We did it!” in the computer lab. I certainly did stay glued to the computer screen until I heard Obama’s victory speech, which was like watching a New Year’s Day celebration. Seeing the camera flashes was like watching fireworks popping into the air.

November 4, 2008 will go down in the history books. It was on this night that a 47-year old product of Kenya and Kansas triumphed after a 21-month battle to become the 44th person, and the first African-American, to become the President of the United States. The loser, Senator John McCain, conceded gracefully, and Barack Obama will move on to start transitioning from a 50-state campaign to a 50-state governance.

It was an election with many firsts. Fittingly, one of the most critical voting blocks that carried Barack Obama to victory Tuesday night was first-time voters and the youth vote, those aged 18-29. Since the vast majority of SCAD students fall within this important category, I thought it fitting to ask some of them what they thought of this groundbreaking election result.

As soon as the major news networks called the election for Obama, jubilation exploded in the streets. Grant Park, in Obama’s home city of Chicago, filled with hundreds of thousands of cheering supporters. Here in Atlanta, the streets were slowly filled with celebration. At Spring House, many students came running out of their dorm rooms cheering and dancing. A few fireworks were even set off nearby. Overall, the scene across America was one of general excitement and happiness at the historic occasion.

The optimism and, yes, hope was quite recognizable in talking to a selection of students who, it should be noted, voted either way. Rachel Ochoa, a third-year animation student, said she was excited about the results, and relieved of the outcome. Second-year animation student Miranda Bradley said “it gives me faith that equal opportunity is more than just talk.”

Brett Miotti, a second-year graphic design student, said Obama’s election left him optimistic. “I think that it represents the possibility of improving our image and relations with others. I also found the fact that many were excited and positive quite telling.” He did note, however, that “[Obama’s election] doesn’t mean things are going to get automatically better.” Jessi Esparza, a second-year broadcast design student, echoed that caution, noting that “yes, the racial barrier has been shattered, but policies matter more, and I’m waiting to see what happens.”

Some students, such as third-year animation student Rachel Bonds, also left with hopes of a more harmonious government, thanks to gains in Congress by Democrats. But that same Democratic majority scares students like second-year graphic design student Lauren Baptist and second-year interactive design and game development student Daniel Plemmons, who remain pessimistic about the results, yet hopeful that they will be proven wrong.  “I disagree with what Obama plans on doing but will fully support him if it works, I just don’t think it will.”

Nonetheless, the interesting thing to notice about the reaction to the election has been a lot of celebration and satisfaction with the results. There have not been any legal challenges or major vote problems that have plagued the last two elections. Even if people disagree with Obama’s election, they are ready to turn the page and embrace a new president.

By Mark Ziemer

In this crazy election season, one that finally ends today, there has been a lot of talk about what the candidates say. Pundits and people alike argue over what Obama or McCain’s tax plans mean, over what candidate made the latest slip-of-the-tongue, and over who means what they say. But what about what they don’t say?

Dr. Karen Scott, Liberal Arts Professor at SCAD-Atlanta, had her students do an assignment that required them to watch the vice-presidential debate between Joe Biden and Sarah Palin (no doubt helping it be the top-rated debate of the last few cycles), and assess the candidates’ non-verbal communication. Pushing past the talking points and policy proposals of the two nominees, several students offered up their take on how Palin and Biden performed through body language and non-verbal cues. This is important because, as Chelsey Collins, a second-year fashion design student, noted: “[The candidate’s] non-verbal actions were just as significant because it helped those watching further understand the points being made and the individuals stating these points.”

Part of non-verbal communication includes one’s appearance, as some students found the choice of wardrobe by the two candidates a positive aspect. Sarah Yoon, a second-year illustration student said that attire “provided a sense of professionalism” and served to not create a distraction. Conversely, Miranda Bradley, a second-year animation student, found that Palin’s accessories were “large and sparkled” and stated that they served as distractions that managed to draw one’s attention away. “She had too much clutter that served as noise to the viewer,” she remarked. She was keener on Biden’s choice of a blue tie and suit, which she found calming.

More striking was the way many students reacted to the candidates’ body language. While nobody said that Palin performed less ably, many noted that she seemed to be lacking in professionalism, or at least in being able to project calm. Bradley continued her critique, stating that Governor Palin created a “feeling of stress” in viewers due to her “shifty, nervous movements, often swaying, looking around, and moving jerkily.”

Many, including Emerald Sims, a second-year fashion design student, picked up on Palin’s several winks and nods over the course of the debate. Sims thought she looked “liked a news anchor,” and “felt it was inappropriate.” Collins, on the other hand, attributed the differences to gender and expectations.

Where Palin was received with mixed feelings by the students, most seemed to find Senator Biden a confident, more commanding presence. Bradley, Collins and Sims all reacted relatively favorably to Biden’s body language, and remarked that Biden’s numerous hand gestures communicated importance and emphasis. Sims found his movements “natural, which exuded a level of confidence.” Yu Mi Lee, a fourth-year broadcast design student noted that the senator’s “eye contact makes the audience feel comfortable and conversational.” Not everything was perfect, though. Yoon picked up on the few times Biden demonstrated “visible signs of heated emotion and irritation.”

Overall, all of the students managed to offer their critiques in a nonpartisan, analytical way that informed the readers of the importance of non-verbal communication. Differences were noted and analyzed, and several students also expressed that this assignment increased their awareness of nonverbal communication. Maybe in four years, at the next presidential debate, people will put equal importance on not just what the candidates say, but what they reveal behind all the words.

My art history class, Treasures of Provence, at SCAD-Lacoste is definitely different from most classes I’ve taken. Since the quarter started, I’ve been in the classroom for only two class sessions. At rest of the class sessions, I’ve been on field trips, and that experience has been immeasurable — seeing the artwork, architecture and artifacts at first-hand, as opposed to reading about them in books or looking at replications, has so far been an enriching experience.

For instance, I went to an outdoor site called “Le Village des Bories,” a group of huts made of limestone. Being at this site first-hand was incredible because I could touch the stones and see the actual size of the huts. The experience really brought the art closer to me, and felt more real.

In another session, we went to a village near Lacoste called Fontaine de Vaucluse to see and study the river source surging from under a massive ravine, as there are several theories about the water’s source of origin. I was able to watch and hear the water flowing. It was very relaxing and the whole scene was one of the most beautiful I had seen in France, and was a welcome change from the usual galleries you might usually go to on a SCAD field trip.

Speaking of galleries and museums, I went to an archaeology museum where we saw Roman artifacts that were found in Apt, a city about 20 minutes from Lacoste. There were huge pots made of soil on display and some sculptures, and I was able to walk around them to see all sides to understand how they were created.

The tour of the Roman theater ruins in the basement that was especially interesting. Because I was able to walk through the theater, I was able to see all the parts of the theater rather than one piece of it in a snapshot or photo. This allowed me to understand the architectural structure much better.

Recently, we went to the home of an artist who creates mosaics, and he gave us a demonstration on how he creates his works. He took larger chunks of stones and hammered them into smaller pieces, then he placed the stones on a board with glue that had an outline of his design. He explained to us that once the design was done, he placed cement on the top. When the cement was dried, he would remove the board. Seeing the demonstration first-hand was an experience because I was able to understand better how artwork was done.

The best thing about all these experiences was how they showed me that art isn’t just made in a studio or a dorm room. Art can be made anywhere, with nearly anything, and opening yourself to seeing and experiencing the beauty of art in places beyond the gallery is an important step for growing as an artist.

Just a short time ago, a few lucky SCAD-Lacoste students (myself included) were given the chance to take a trip to Paris and explore its rich collection of museums and art galleries. The trip gave us all the chance to expand and enhance our knowledge and appreciation for art, as we toured famous museums like the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and the Pompidou Center.

As someone who’s visited Paris three times and actually lived there for three weeks one summer, I was honestly not looking forward to revisiting the city and seeing the same old sites. I thought I’d seen the entire city, but I came to find out that wasn’t the case at all.

First of all, I visited two galleries that I have never been to before. My photography professor took us to Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris, an incredible museum temporarily exhibiting a contemporary photography collection — Objectives. These photographs displayed Dusseldorf from the 1960’s until the present in variety of concepts including landscape, cityscape, documentary and portraits. I was so inspired by the photographs that I took notes to research for future ideas and projects.

We also visited Maison Européen de la Photographie, an enormous photography gallery displaying contemporary photographic art including commercial photography and surrealism photography. This museum has a varied range of works on display and offered some new and fresh perspective on modern photography.

The Museum, I discovered on our trip, is so big that I actually had not seen the entire museum like I thought I had. So, of course, I didn’t mind exploring more. I discovered many pieces of art that I had learned about in art history courses, such as the “Virgin of the Rocks” by Leonardo da Vinci and “Le Bain Turc” by Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres. I’m so used to seeing the artwork on a piece of a paper, but viewing these artworks firsthand was surreal. I was able to see the textures of the paint, specifically how the paints were stroked onto the canvas. I wanted to touch the paintings, to attach myself with their beauty and their texture. Later, I got a chance to view “Raft of the Medusa” by Theodore Gericault, and I was shocked by its massive size. The length of the painting was almost the same length as the wall! I felt that I could step inside the painting and be part of the story as people were the same size as me.

Paris has certainly overwhelmed me with its size and magnitude that I have come to finally notice on this trip. I didn’t even finish seeing all of the galleries suggested by my professors, so I will have to make plans to visit again soon.

My friend just started school here and she is paranoid about gaining the Freshman 15. Is it as true as they say it is?

Signed,
Curious

Dear Curious,

Luckily, your friend’s not alone! Conversations about the dreaded Freshman 15 have been popping up everywhere. To answer your question though, yes and no. Contrary to popular belief, most freshman only gain about five pounds, so this should ease her mind. You can also suggest that she walk back and forth from school when she can instead of driving or taking the shuttle, as well as eating healthy. She can also use the fitness center on the first floor. Most importantly, though, remind your friend that she need not be paranoid, because she is in complete control over her body. If she stays focused on being healthy and fit, excessive weight gain won’t even be an issue!
_______

Dear Kristen,

I have an INSANE teacher!!! This woman has issues and I can’t deal with it anymore. It’s to the point where I wake up angry the day I have her class!!! Is there ANYTHING I can do?

Signed,
Stressed Out

Dear Stressed,

First off, I know exactly how you feel! I had a language arts teacher in high school who was impossible to deal with (she got mad at people for her own mistakes)! As crazy as it may sound, the best thing you can do is keep your cool. It’s always best to have a professor’s respect no matter how neurotic he or she is. You may have to go back to that professor one day to get a job reference or a recommendation letter — you never know. Second, if it is a matter of her not explaining the lesson, seek clarification from another professor who teaches the same subject. Third, keep in mind that your time with the professor will not last forever. If you know any upper classmen, ask if they know anything about the teachers you may have for the next quarter. In the meantime, try not to get too stressed out, you’ll be out of the class soon!

Take care,
Kristen