Update

Wednesday 26.11.08 – Reflective writing
Instead of reading writing, archiving and getting ready for the presentation I was compelled to create storyboards for Ken. I have devised five different routes based on the following;

1 Simple shapes, circles (stress dots) for Ken and triangular shapes for my voice again, changing shape and size when synchronized with the audio. The work is similar to Len Lye and Rhythmus by Hand Richter. This approach is concerned with word stress, it is not concerned about typography.

2 The second approach represents transcription convention and typography. De-constructing type and over-sizing the transcription symbols and allowing the text to crop out of shot or be deliberately broken apart into syllables and natural pauses.

3 Repetition of words is explored in the third route. When the word ‘yeah’ is repeated in the audio the same background image will appear with small text. The visual language of the old worn carpet will convey a flatness of voice. Repetition will be obvious as the frame ‘yeah’ will be repeated five times, in line with the audio. The animation will clearly highlight who is speaking and the tone of voice will be apparent from the type choice and backgrounds chosen.

4 The final route shows a combination of word stress dots, location and typography. Textured circles are used as word stress dots, the text can be simply placed within the shape. When Ken speaks the circles appear, when I speak strips of wallpaper appear (to keep my voice second in line and neutral). It would be useful to break out of these constraints when laughter occurs. The use of letterpress or typewriting will be explored for Ken and more modern text to represent my character.

5 Road markings will be used in connection with route 2. For example when Ken stops speaking it is quite abrupt, linguistically this is referred to as a ‘glottal stop’.
With this knowledge I can use the road making ‘stop’ to highlight linguistic references. The road, road signs and markings also relate well to Ken’s voice and personality, looking down wards and worn out in places!

The next stage is to work into each storyboard in more depth, edit and start small tests. I am also reviewing all written work and producing a guide for the assessment.
I have noticed that the written work is slightly disparate due to the fact that other commitments have interrupted the natural flow of the work. In terms of my development in the MA I am pleased to have been able to spend the time to find a method of work and a project that suits me.