I would just like to say that the town of Stratford-upon-Avon is absolutely lovely. Its small size vaguely reminds me of my home town, and while it’s still a lot larger than Mount Ida, I felt very at home the whole time we stayed here. The slower pace, beautiful architecture and greenery, and cozy bed and breakfast made for a wonderful end of the trip.
For once I won’t end with art, because all I have to offer is a small portrait sketch. I did it on the bus ride to the airport so it’s not the best, but whatever. This sketch made me realize how little I understand technique for portraying hair. I think that’s something I need to spend more time on. Anyway, here it is!
Alright, now for the rest of the blog post.
I went into this trip excited, but not entirely sure what to expect. I had never been outside of the country before. Would I be anxious? What if I somehow managed to not learn anything?? What if I hated everything??? What if a random guy stole my phone out of my coat pocket while I was taking a selfie??!? Yet none of that was ever an issue. I honestly felt a lot more comfortable with the new circumstances I’d been given than I thought I would. I figured I would hate it at first, or at least be homesick, but I think I adjusted pretty quickly to being in a new place (AND with people I didn’t really know all that well).
I set three goals for this trip (besides, y’know, learning about theatre): make art, explore places on my own, and learn more about people. And I do believe I’ve succeeded in all three. With art, I’ve had something to include in every blog post– with little doodles I’ve additionally drawn along the way. This is genuinely the most art I’ve made since, well, last summer, and it has absolutely made me a much happier person. I feel as if I’m more willing to take the time to learn new things in art, rather than strictly sticking to portraits as I’ve caught myself doing this past year. I’ve also not only explored London on my own, but I went to Cardiff as well. I mostly had a goal to do that so I could force myself to improve my horrid directional skills, as well as gain a little bit more independence. And the people!! I’ve talked to so many people here and had so many lovely interactions. MUCH more good than bad. Based on those interactions alone, I’m pretty convinced that if I ever moved to the UK I would be just fine.
Overall I regret nothing, and I’d like to believe I’m coming home with plenty of experiences, a deeper appreciation for the world of theatre, and a slightly better understanding of this big ol’ world we live in (and a newfound love for the tesco meal deal). And what more could you possibly want?
Alright, that’s all. Peace!!
Theatre in London U of A 