Almost Ready!
Progress updates on the arch construction!
When revisiting last month’s email to remind myself where I left off, I noticed I said I would be updating my website with details about the arch’s progress and that I’d send a second email about it.
Whoops.
It’s been hard even remembering to document the progress, as my priority is moving the project forward, not creating content. Setting up a tripod and thinking of how I want to compose the photos/videos takes time away from getting the work done. If I remember, I’ll put everything together in a final “making of” when the project is complete.
LATEST PROGRESS
The Emotional Shift Project web page has been updated with the project revisions now that it’s going to be in the physical world and not on YouTube. As I get everything dialed in, the page will have all of the project details as well as where you’ll be able to find the arch in the Twin Cities for now and with any luck, eventually around the country!
The arch is halfway complete! The bulk of the work is cutting, sanding, and drilling wood which needs to be done outside and the weather was less than cooperative in April which held things up a bit.
I took advantage of two good days that were sandwiched between several rainy ones to cut all the pieces. Fortunately, the adhesive for the 4’ x 8’ plastic sheets that I’m using as the projection surface is low-odor, and I had enough room in my apartment to lay them down, so I was able to complete that step indoors while waiting for better weather.
Below is a short video of the projection test I did on the arch half.
Besides planning the music and animations, I’m also working on handouts with somatic exercises for people to do in person along with the arch or at home on their own. I realized last night that giving people something to read at dusk/night is not the best idea unless I’m also providing light, so I’m still ironing out the details.
HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT THE PROJECT
Thanks to the generous donations to the project’s GoFundMe I was able to cover the cost of materials for the construction, which have totaled a little over $500, as well as gas for my many trips to Menards and Home Depot! I wouldn’t have been able to do it without your help!
To be transparent, design work and Etsy sales have significantly slowed down and I’m struggling to make ends meet. Setting up the GoFundMe was a difficult decision as I know I’m not alone in having a hard time right now.
This project is a crucial proof of concept that will allow me to begin pitching my projection work and with any luck, successfully pivot into this new career.
I’m so close to completion, but I still need to purchase supplies for signage, a bag that will hold both my projector and laptop together (I’m currently using two backpacks, which works but is really cumbersome), and a stepstool for set up (my current stepstool is just a couple of inches too short for me to reach the top of the arch).
Support comes in many forms, and any little bit helps!
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Do you know of any therapeutic businesses that might be interested in sponsoring the pop-up events? Any night events/festivals that the arch might be a good fit for? Would you like to hire me for something you’re working on? Reach out and let me know!
Just $5 from everyone who opens this email would make a HUGE difference!
If you would like to set up a recurring donation to the project for as little as $1 a month, you can do so on my Ko-Fi page. (Choose monthly instead of one-time)
I’m beyond excited to finish the arch and begin sharing it with the public!
As always, thank you so much for being here and for your continued support. I’m incredibly grateful.
Until the next newsletter, be well!
Giesla