Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

I haven’t posted in a while as being typical me I have been doing next to nothing and have been extremely lazy as I am currently on holiday. I decided I needed to start posting again so thought what better to post about than the final Harry Potter film.

The conclusion of the entire Harry Potter series is absolutely fantastic. As a huge Harry Potter fan the movie was everything I hoped for and expected.

Harry Potter 7 movie posters.

I of course had to go to the first showing of the film at five past midnight on Thursday the 14^th after a full day of watching previous Harry Potter films. I went with a group of friends who are all huge Potter fans as was the entire audience which resulted in a fantastic atmosphere. The whole audience shared the entire experience, everyone gasped, cheered, clapped, laughed and cried together throughout the movie, as well as looking slight odd wearing the special Harry Potter 3D glasses, which I love and will keep along with the books.

Harry Potter 3D glasses

Although there were many parts or scenes of the film that were different from the book or scenes from the book which had not been included –which greatly annoyed me throughout the previous films – I wasn’t bothered by the changes, as the changes really made it a great film. I feel this was the only film in the series which did the book justice, apart from perhaps the first few. Due to the considerable difference in the length of the first three books compared to the rest of the series the film makers were able to show much more detail in the corresponding films.

Minerva McGonagall Fighting

There were some really great additions in the film, as well as straight lifts from the book. My favourite being from Minerva McGonagall-

“Piertotum locomotor! Hogwarts is threatened! Man the boundaries, protect us, do your duty to our school! … I have always wanted to use that spell.”

www.youtube.com/watch?v=W87zVtypysA

 

 

 

 As well as Mrs Weasley’s fantastic quote which you will know and love if you have read the books and which I will not spoil is you haven’t. 

Molly Weasley's Dueling

Each character really came into their own in this final film, whether they be friend or foe of Harry. I felt that the teachers of Hogwarts and the parents of students gave the biggest shock and got the loudest cheer as they began to fight. Up until now the adult characters have taken a  backseat on the action making a drastic change when they see no other way but to fight for what they stand for and do so with great ferocity, anger and power.

Despite knowing every detail of the books and knowing exactly what was coming I couldn’t help but be caught up in the suspense and sadness of the film. I must admit that I cried an awful lot throughout the movie. As I have said I knew exactly what was coming but I couldn’t stop the tears as Hogwarts was destroyed and my favourite characters were killed, as seeing it was extremely emotional for a huge fan like myself.

Hogwarts Burning

Quidditch Stadium Burning

 

Lupin and Tonks during the battle

As well as the action the dramatic story telling scenes were equally fantastic and mobbing, and did great justice to the book, particularly the scenes depicting the chapter named “The Prince’s Tale”, which was one of many scenes which triggered tears and lots of them.

The final scene was just as good as the rest and perhaps better. Although it was very emotional it was great. 19 years later on from the battle the epilogue goes back to the magic which started Harry on his journey to Hogwarts and which got us all hooked on the stories. It reminded me of where the whole story started with the initial book by the wonderful J. K. Rowling. I love the first book when the famous three are still young with no worries other than winning the Quidditch and House cup. It took me back to when I was 8 years old and being in awe of Rowling’s magical world, just as students within this world are awed by their first trip to Hogwarts. This recollection as well as the fact that Harry, Ron and Hermione are now adults and looking back just as the fans, are makes the ending a very beautiful scene.

Ginny with Albus and James on Platform 9 3/4

Platform 9 3/4

Now that I have seen the final movie I am left with a very strange feeling. For the first time since I was 8 years old there is no new Harry Potter book or film release to wait for or to get excited about. At first I was very upset that the books and films which I have grown up with have concluded, as this conclusion in a way suggests the end of my childhood. Only those who have been with the books and films from the very beginning and grown up with them – Those who have defended the Stone, found the Chamber, freed the Prisoner, been chosen by the Goblet, fought with the Order, learned from the Prince and dominated the Hallows, in short the Harry Potter Generation, which I am proud to be part of. - will truly understand the feeling of loss (however sad that may sound) that the ending of Harry Potter Brings.

Although having reflected on the entire series I am now uplifted as I feel it couldn’t have ended in a better way. I know that the Harry Potter books will become classics which I and I am sure many others will read and re-read well into adulthood. I have come to realise that stories like these always stay with us and will never really end. As said by J .K. Rowling herself   “Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home.”

The creator of Harry Potter, author J.K.Rowling

I thoroughly recommend going to see the final installment of Harry Potter whether you are a fan or not it is a truly great film. I also recommend if you haven’t already you read the books they are truly amazing, and if you have read the book do as I am doing and go back to the start.

My Trip To Rome

I loved Rome from the minute I stepped outside of the airport. I love the Italian language, I love Italian rudeness and driving and most of all I love Italian art. I was fortunate to be staying in a hotel which was right in the centre of Rome, as I was able to walk to most of the sights in a reasonably short time. At the end of my first day I had already seen the Spanish Steps, The Trevi Fountain, The Pantheon, Plaza Navona and Castel Sant’ Angelo.

The Trevi Fountain

The Pantheon

Unfortunately I didn’t sketch all that much in Rome, mostly because every sight was ridiculously crowded with tourists and annoying locals trying to sell you stuff. The only time I managed to sketch was when I was sitting in an alcove of the terrace of Castel Sant’ Angelo, where I spent a good while sketching the amazing view of St Peters Basilica. While I was sketching however many people stopped to watch over my shoulder as I sketched, telling me how good the sketch was. Although I appreciate the comments it is one of my pet hates to have people watching me when I sketch.

During my second day in Rome I visited Vatican City I never put my camera down. There was just so much to see and it was all so amazing. I particularly liked all the statues of Saints surrounding the top of St Peters Square.

St Peter's Square

View Of St Peter's Square From Basilica

St Peter's Square Statues

All the art inside the Vatican is so inspirational and perfect but so difficult to replicate, I didn’t even bother to get out my sketchbook apart from  when I was sitting in the Sistine Chapel. I soon gave up on my   sketch however and returned my sketchbook to my bag. Surprisingly I was able to take pictures throughout most of the Vatican rooms and corridors. Even in Raphael’s Rooms.

What struck me most about the art in the Vatican was the depiction of the natural human form and the amazing depictions of cloth and clothing in both painting and sculpture. I also found it interesting that a lot of the art was erotic in nature despite the conservative views of the Vatican. For example no shoulders or knees are to be shown at any time within that Vatican as it is deemed inappropriate, although a lot of the art depicts male and female nudes. The ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in particular, painted by Michelangelo was, as with most of his art, was supposedly painted to celebrate male erotica and homoerotica –hinting at Michelangelo’s sexual orientation – despite showing religious scenes and events.

As far as I am aware the Vatican were not aware of the meaning and intention behind Michelangelo’s art, which is why he was able to paint as he did. I find it very amusing as had the Vatican known about Michelangelo’s love for male erotica, I am quite sure he would have not been commissioned to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling.

Before leaving Rome I also toured Castel Sant’ Angelo and the Coloesseum. The ‘Mole Adriana’, now called Castel Sant’ Angelo (Castle of the Angel), was originally built between 123 and 139 AD, the monumental grave of the Roman Emperor and was used as a tomb by the Imperial families.

Angel Statue On the Bridge

Castel Sant' Angelo

I was interested in seeing Castel Sant’ Angelo as in Dan Brown’s novel Angels and Demons and the movie based on the novel, it is said to be the Church of Illumination. The Church of Illumination was said to be where the Illuminati – a secret organisation mainly made up of men of science who were against the church – would meet in secret without the church knowing. The church is at the end of the path of Illumination, described in Dan Brown’s novel, which is made up of four churches across Rome. These churches are the four Alters of Science, The Chigi Chapel in St Maria del Popolo, St Peter’s Church and Square, The Church of Maria della Vittoria and The Fountain of the Four Rivers at Piazza Novona.
 The path of illumination is marked by angels on each Alter of Science. The Angels lead the way to the church of Illumination, Castel Sant’ Angelo. The bridge leading to the Castle is decorated with Angels all pointing towards the Castel.

On my last day in Rome I saw the Colosseum, it was amazing to say the least. Unfortunately a lot of the original interior, structure is gone, which however is interesting as this allowed you to see the different layers and sections which make up the Colosseum.

The Colosseum Exterior

I loved my visit to Rome and it is definitely a place I want to return to. I love the art, the architecture, the sights, the history, the culture and the people. The next time I visit however I intend to experience the culture more, I will be less of a tourist and more of a visitor. 

Lower Level Inside the Colosseum

 

Colosseum Interior

Glastonbury Print

I love this print. It has been created for Glastonbury Festival 2011 by Stanley Donwood.
I have never heard of Stanley Donwood before but from a quick glance I like his work and I am going to find out more about him.

http://www.slowlydownward.com/nonews.html

Generation – Tramway Glasgow

Old enough to vote, old enough to drive, old enough to order a pint, to have sex, to work, to get married, to wear a uniform and fight. You are legal.

Congratulations, you are an adult.

So what will you do next?

GENERATION is a newly devised, autobiographical piece from Glas(s) Performance, looking at the future and what it holds for the next generation of young adults in 2011.

Four performers, aged 17 – 18, reveal their hopes, aspirations and ideals as they come of age. GENERATION examines the choices that are available to young adults, reflecting their position and responsibilities in the world. Against a backdrop of massive changes, cuts to higher education and a failing jobs market, we share in the performers’ experiences, look at what they will inherit and explore the notion of “future” through their eyes. Glas(s) Performance is a Glasgow based theatre company that collaborates with real people in the place of fictional characters to tell stories that explore every day human experiences. The company is a creative partnership between RSAMD graduates Jess Thorpe and Tashi Gore. They have been creating autobiographical performance projects since 2004.

Generation poster

I found out about Generation from a friend Stephanie Hunter who is one of the four person cast performing the show. As my friend was performing I agreed to go straight away without knowing what the show was about, although reading about it only furthered my excitement of seeing Stephanie perform.

Although I ended up being late for the show I thoroughly loved what I saw. I think a good way to describe it is that it made me think, but not too much. It of course was very easy to relate to the performers, as they were simply being themselves. There was a great contrast between high energy movement, conveying a whole range of emotions, and quiet, calming contemplation. The movement between the high energy and calmed scenes forced me to think about the ups and downs of being 17. I still want to have good care-free times at the same time as I want to grow up and be mature which obviously brings with it many responsibilities.

The contrast, perhaps not during the show but certainly afterward made me bring the two together and think about growing up at the same time as having a good time. It really made me think about what was going on in my life be it relationships, commitments, jobs or money (especially the fact that I need and Isa) but it also made me think ‘fuck it enjoy being 17 and see what happens with life’. I feel I have a happy medium between the two I like to think of the future and plan ahead but I also live in the now and go with the flow.

I felt that it was ironic that I was late for the show, (having got on the wrong train) due to a stupid mistake, which is just one of these things. Although I was so angry about missing part of the performance I was reminded by the train conductor that being late happens and that ‘its life’ which of course is what Generation was all about, real life and growing up.

As well as being extremely entertaining and thought provoking Generation was also very inspiring, although I can’t quite put my finger on why, I can simple describe the things I liked. I like that the cast were themselves and so were in their own clothes, each looking individual and unique. I liked the simplicity of the set stage with only four single tables and chairs on stage. I liked the contrast of the music and movement. I liked the lighting and the rustic look of the stage. It has inspired me to do some performance art, although I don’t know what about and it has inspired me to somehow be creative in a contemporary way.

Unfortunately Generation has now finished showing at the Tramway, although I would highly recommend visiting the tramway and seeing what else is on and also finding out more about the theatre company Glas(s).

If you read this well done Steph you were great really loved the performance!!!

Lady Gaga Oil Painting Progress

I have now added a bold background colour (crimson, straight out the tube) which I love! As well as a background I have put more work into the hair adding some shadows on the left hand side as well as altering the ‘flow’ of the hair, and adding colour to the lips. I then moved on and made a start on the shoulder and front of the dress (which needs much more detail). For all of these sections I have used very little white spirit and much thicker, less diluted paint, allowing me to blend colour. This gives a very traditional look to my painting, a look which I have come to love through work by the artist Shawn Barber, despite his subject matter being far from traditional.

Oil Painting of Kat Von D by Shawn Barber

http://www.sdbarber.com/ 

I have discovered that using thicker paint lets me blend colours much more easily, as I work quite quickly often adding bold strokes of colour, which when I am working with acrylics creates and almost abstract style. With oils however it gives me a much more refined and classical look as when I add bold strokes of paint, the layer beneath is still wet so they automatically mix giving a much more subtle blend of colour. The newly finished sections where done in about and hour.

Lady Gaga Oil Painting

Lady Gaga Oil Painting

Lady Gaga Oil Painting

Lady Gaga Oil Painting

Lady Gaga Oil Painting

Abstract Oil Painting

This was actually my first oil painting and I really just used it to get a feel for oil paints. It does however have a meaning to it. After being out a walk and passing a group of kids much younger than me, I had an idea for the abstract painting. When I was walking past the group I was cautious as always in case they did or said something to me. I was thinking of a smart response in case they called me gay or whatever else, but instead walking by with my head held high I was gripped by a horrible fear. I was terrified and just wanted to run past. I kept calm and walked past but was filled with disgust because of my fear. I was filled with these two emotions battling each other for the rest of the night and really made myself feel terrible. The painting is mainly tones of gray, black and white and I have used multiple different textures to convey my fear. I have then added streaks of colour in green and orange to show my confidence fighting but then dwindling and disappearing. I want the painting to remind me of the horrible feeling so I never experience it again.

Abstract Oil Painting

Abstract Oil Painting

Abstract Oil Painting

Lady Gaga Oil Painting Progress

I have now actually started painting, beginning with the face and hair. Already i love working with oils although at this stage they seem very similar to acrylics, as out of habit I am using a lot of white spirit, as I would use a lot of water when working with acrylics. The oils therefore are dying out much faster. Although it needs a lot more work and many more layers of paint I think I have made a good start with the painting. The painting shown in the pictures was done in about two hours.

Lady Gaga Oil Panting

Lady Gaga Oil Painting

Lady Gaga Oil Painting