This is officially my first posting on my new blog and I feel it warrants some explanations on, firstly, the name of the blog, and secondly, this blog's intentions.
I shall start with the latter as I feel that talking about the genesis of this blog is apt and a lot easier, and in some weird way, acts a segue to explaining the rather odd title. This blog came about from the fruits of a discussion I had with some of my final year students. We were talking about how important it is for designers to have ideals, beliefs and a stand. I felt that what is happening (which is not very promising) in the design world, and specifically here in this country today is due to the lack of the aforementioned principles and characteristics. Too many times designers are asked and compelled to sacrifice their principles, or are even encouraged to not have any at all. As the discussion wore on, a point was raised regarding how difficult it is to have a stand and to make it known. It was then surmised that utilising the powers of technology today would be the way forward, and blogs are one such example of that. So it was decided that my students should have a blog of their own; primarily to let the online community and peers know of their beliefs and principles as a designer, and a way to promote and advertise their work and ability. And I could not consider myself a true educator if I did not lead by example. So this blog of mine is a result of that discussion; and I would also like to dedicate this to them.
Now this blog is not exclusively for them, nor will its contents be only about art, design and architecture (which by now you should be able to conclude that that is my background). There will be posts and articles on film, football, social commentaries, the natural world etc. All this sounds ambitious but I’m just shouting out things right atop my head.
The wonder of the virtual world ensures accessibility and that is the main reason for doing this. I will be accountable for all that is written and shown here, and some of the things that you will read in the future will undoubtedly show my bias points of view, proclivities and inclinations. I will never expect anyone to agree totally or subscribe to my world views but I do implore those who read and give comments to have and show civility and maturity. I feel that open and intelligent debate is lacking and I am trying to do my part in encouraging its growth.
And lastly, the title: Musings & Exhortations, which are actually rather (admittedly) pretentious words and synonyms for thinking and doing, but I needed something to get people’s attention. I am often accuse of over-thinking things and not doing enough, something I agree with; which is another reason for creating this blog. All the contemplations on things and issues mentioned just now are often expressed, in a limited format, through discussions with friends and colleagues; and it is my hope that these contemplations will lead to action. Which brings me to the second part of the title: any educator will agree with me a big part of our job is to get our students to DO. We encourage, advise, appeal; and this is what I am hoping this blog will achieve to a larger audience as well.
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