Verse Magazine Edition #4 | June 2015

FREE Edition 4 | June 2015 Your Student Mag

InsIde ThIs Issue Imagine a Day! Give Me My Lips Back Ethical is the New Black OZ Comic-Con When Things Get Shaken The Pressure to be Fashionable

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Edition 4 | June 2015

contact@versemag.com.au www.versemag.com.au Head Editor Jacinta Mazzarolo Editors Robbie Slape, Holly Byrne Graphic Designer Storm Warman Contributors Storm Warman, Robbie Slape, Kate Wakerley, Claire Gordon, Kaitlin Kavanagh, Gabriel Olaer, Kayla Dickeson, Tessa Roberts, Emmanuel Kuol, Heather McGinn, Alyssia Tennant, Keith Odendaal, Kathryn Mills, Annie Vaughton, Dan Hennessy, Alex Perisic, Sam Richards, Stefanie Parletta, Caleb Sweeting, Caity Johnson Cover Image Design: Storm Warman Printer Newstyle Design & Production Consultants Tom Wilson, Georgie Smith The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily representative of the views of USASA or the editors.

Artwork, image production & generation (unless otherwise stated) by Storm Warman.

instagram.com/versemagazine facebook.com/Versemagadelaide @versemag_adl Verse Magazine is brought to you by

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Editor’s Letter Jacinta Mazzarolo | Head Editor

The most surprising thing about putting this edition together was not the fact that our graphic designer, Storm, managed to dress up a dumpling in a bikini (page 28, you’re welcome), but the overriding subject matter that coincidentally emerged.

Despite scrapping themes this year, fashion in a wider cultural context is talked about at length, as is the value of material possessions, poverty, and happiness. The articles in Verse tackling these issues, pose serious questions about our materialistic culture. Kate confronts this notion in her piece, Ethical is the New Black, and Heather and Claire both explore different expectations we put on ourselves and our clothing in their respective articles. Whether it’s reclaiming derogative words, billion dollar business brands or explicit cross-stitch patterns (page 56, again, you’re welcome), taking certain ideas, subjects, their expectations and turning them on their head is such a subversive yet powerful tool in activism.

Challenging such issues about clothes, their production, their social meaning, and juxtaposing them next to articles about poverty and natural disasters to highlight a materialist cultural and a need to challenge these beliefs, is what we tried to do this issue. We hope you enjoy it and it makes you think a little…

Happy reading!

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Contents Edition 4 | June 2015

02 Letter from the Editor 04 Eating on $2 a Day to Help End Extreme Poverty 08 The Pressure to be Fashionable 10 Is Your E-Reader Reading You? 13 Regression to the Mean 16 When Things Get Shaken 20 Give Me My Lips Back 22 Students, Scientists and Saltmarshes 28 Clothes for Fat Girls 29 Ethical is the New Black 31 Going postal 32 Imagine a Day! 36 Oz Comic–Con 40 In[ter]view: Dan Hennessy 44 #USASAsocial 46 Imag[in]e: Alex Perisic 52 Vox 54 Driving Home 56 Reviews: Film / Music / Books

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Eating on $2 a Day to Help End Extreme Poverty Words ▶ Kathryn Mills

Oaktree recently held their annual campaign, Live Below the Line, to raise awareness and funds to fight extreme poverty, Kathryn Mills took on the challenge and now shares her valuable insight with us.

From May 4-8, I joined thousands of other Australians spending just $2 on food for five days as part of a campaign run by the youth-led organisation Oaktree. Live Below the Line aims to raise awareness about extreme poverty and is a fundraiser for educational projects in Cambodia, Timor- Leste and Papua New Guinea.

Since its debut in 2010, Live Below the Line has raised $7.5 million towards poverty eradication and, in 2015 alone, the campaign has raised over $1.3 million towards supporting Oaktree and their international partners for important educational projects.

supermarket and bought foods high in nutrients and carbohydrates including pasta, oats, diced tomatoes, lentils, frozen vegetables, bread and peanut butter for a bit of taste. After a quick stop to the Central Market just before closing time I managed to squeeze both potatoes and bananas into my budget with 50 cents spare (which I later used on the second to last day to purchase a 30 cent chocolate coated apricot bar).

As I’m not a caffeine drinker, I didn’t feel any side effects of the challenge on the first day. However, by the second day I began to feel run down and noticed that

I still had use of all the luxuries, including a roof over my head, clean drinking water, a comfortable bed to sleep in, electronics, and transport.

Something that encouraged me to take part in the campaign is one of Oaktree’s core beliefs, that the most beneficial thing we can do in Australia to help alleviate extreme poverty is to provide young people with education, so that they can make a difference in not only their own lives, but also in their communities. I strongly believe this isn’t just about donating money to change lives, it’s about what these funds can provide in resources so others can change their own lives.

Before the challenge began I researched and planned what I wanted to eat for the week. I went to my local

my reaction times when asked questions in class was much slower than normal. During the third and fourth days, I experienced what I can only guess was sugar withdrawals as I had a headache and low energy levels.

Thursday evening was probably the toughest. As the headache continued, I went to Foodland after the suggestion of a friend and bought one chocolate-coated apricot bar that satisfied my sugar cravings and relieved my headache. Thursday night also led me to creating the best meal of the week– a banana toasted sandwich.

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By Friday I was so over my pasta concoction that I had been living on for five days straight and I looked forward to eating some proper, flavoursome food with friends who also took part in the challenge after midnight.

Shopping for food after the five days was different than usual. I went down the aisles and was overwhelmed with choice, happy to be reminded just how fortunate I am that I was able to afford these things just because of where I was born.

The new perspective I gained and the conversations I had with people this week I will take with me in my future career as a social worker and I am very grateful that I got the chance to take part in this important and worthwhile challenge. The campaign and acceptance of donations don’t officially end until June 30. I look forward to taking part again next year, but probably with a different menu.

The experience of eating on $2 a day didn’t allow me to experience what real poverty must be like as I still had use of all the luxuries, including a roof over my head, clean drinking water, a comfortable bed to sleep in, electronics, and transport.

I can’t even begin to imagine what life would be like for the 1.3 million people who live in extreme poverty worldwide. Taking part in this challenge gave me a new perspective on what living in extreme poverty would be like and allowed me to understand just how important education is in breaking the poverty cycle.

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The Oaktree Foundation are still accepting donations for ‘Live Below the Line 2015’ up until June 30.

Head over to www.livebelowtheline.com.au for the details on how to get involved.

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The Pressure to be Fashionable

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Ever felt the need to put on your Sunday best for your 3pm Thursday class?

Stress less; Claire Gordon explains that at Uni, no one really cares.

Words ▶ Claire Gordon The start of university is like setting up the foundation blocks for your future. Everyone wants to succeed and get the highest grades, be accepted into higher programs if they wish, and make friends. Another pressure that seems so often not talked about is the pressure to be fashionable. To look cool to our peers.

to look good, each and every day we attend university is an unnecessary pressure. This feeling of being ugly, unattractive or unfashionable is one that can often lead to very low self-confidence and in turn effect our grades and social participation. No one should be made to feel this way.

This pressure affects recent school leavers, who are in a panic as to what to wear as they’ve spent their school years in a uniform not having to make this decision, through to mature-aged students who want to fit in with everyone else.

And because nobody cares, you shouldn’t either.

Many times, I have got up in a rush to race to an early lecture, got there and thought, “Oh my gosh, what on earth am I wearing? People are going to judge me on how I look.” It took me a very long time to realise that nobody cares. Nobody cares what clothes I am wearing, whether they are the latest fashion or home brand, if I accidently put on a pair of jeans which have pen ink stain from a previous late night study session, or if my shoes don’t match my belt.

Nobody cares how I look because everyone is either worried about how they look, are focused on their class, thinking about what work they need to get done or what they are doing on the weekend. And because nobody cares, you shouldn’t either. Dress how you feel comfortable, embrace your own style and wear what makes YOU feel confident.

As young adults, we are genetically programmed to think everyone is looking at us, judging us or making comments. Most of the time, this simply is not the case.

We can relate to that great feeling when we suddenly catch our reflection in a mirror or shop window and think, “Wow, I look great today.” However, for some students, this is just not the case most days. This pressure

Not too long ago, I had a day were I was feeling pretty lousy about myself. I walked into the bathrooms at university, and whilst checking my makeup, a girl turned around to me and said, “I love your beret!” with a big smile on her face. I will tell you this – that made my day.

A total stranger, paying me a lovely compliment, it was such a nice feeling, especially on a day where you feel you don’t look your best.

So the next time you are on campus, stop thinking about how you look, how other perceive you and give someone else a compliment. They may be feeling just like you and maybe having a bad day, or could just use a nice pick me up to brighten their day.

Your confidence is something people will notice, that will help you meet people, make friends and in turn make you feel good about yourself and benefit your mental state.

We all have plenty of pressures in life already, this doesn’t need to be another. So don’t worry about what you think others perceptions of you are, embrace who you are and enjoy it.

Most of all, be kind to yourself, there is nothing more fashionable than someone with a positive outlook on life and smile of their face!

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Is Your E-Reader Reading You? Words ▶ Kate Wakerley

The proliferation of smart devices means that there is more digital ‘you’ than there has ever been, as Kate Wakerley writes, even e-readers probably know more about you than you think.

“Big Brother is watching you,” wrote George Orwell in 1984. I wonder if Orwell would have been disturbed by the developments so many years after the release of his novel, that Big Brother would know precisely how long readers take to finish his work of fiction, which excerpts have been highlighted, and what they will read next.

Because that is exactly what is happening following the popularity of e-readers around the world. Your e-book is now reading you right back.

Your e-reader knows just how long it took you to read A Game of Thrones. It knows that you prefer reading non-fiction in the morning, and fantasy at night. It knows you skipped through the first part of Crime and Punishment. It knows which quotes you have highlighted in The Hunger Games trilogy.

“Because sometimes things happen to people and they’re not equipped to deal with them,” is the most highlighted quote of all time on the Amazon Kindle.

This is all thanks to your e-reader’s capacity for data collection. Your portable library is capable of noting your reading times, your purchasing activity, the speed at which you read a book, the pages you bookmark, and what you will read next.

While my recent Neil Gaiman binge and the amount of time I spend reading late at night wouldn’t make headlines, this data is becoming significant for publishers as this information becomes available to them.

As the increased use of e-readers and the sale of e-books rise, publishers are taking an interest in the information collected from e-readers. In the days of paper books, publishers found it difficult to identify who their readers were, and until now they have only known how many copies of a book are sold. They didn’t know if you read the opening pages of a book before casting it aside or read it intensely underlining passages as you read.

Your e-reader knows just how long it took you to read A Game of Thrones.

E-books are creating the opportunity for publishers to study how a book is read, giving new insights into their customer-base. They can see the story behind the salesfigures and learn how people are engaging with their books. Publishers are now able to see who is reading their books, when and how they read, and what people are saying about their books.

Gone are the days were reading was a private and solitary activity. It’s no longer just one person engaging with the words on the page. The popularity of digital books has led to a shift in the way we read and has transformed the simple act of reading into something that can be measured and shared.

At the same time, apps such as GoodReads have introduced a social aspect to reading. This means that not only can you rate and write reviews for the books you read, you can build a catalogue of your reading activity that you can show off to your friends just how well read you are.

Although this is a fairly new aspect to book publishing, it is important to consider the implications for authors.

While access to the data provides publishers with the ability to market a book effectively which may lead to greater sales numbers, it could also lead to a push to only publishing books in response to what the average reader wants.

Already some publishers are starting to market test some books digitally before the release of a print edition.

For example, Sourcebooks, which publishes 250 books a year, has started experimenting with a new style of digital publishing.

Sourcebooks has released online editions of various titles across a range of categories from young adult to non-fiction titles. The publisher has sought questions and suggestions from online readers, which eventually, will be incorporated into the print editions.

There is a very real possibility that the books being released over the next few years could be written according to an algorithm of the habits of a Kindle reader. It would be a shame if authors were to exchange originality for dragons and dystopia in order to create reader interest.

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A Celebration of Relaxation massages & yoga baby animal petting zoo meditation & mindfulness sessions henna tattoos & calming cups of tea All provided free by USASA Maw son Lakes: Tuesday 9 June | Magill Campus: Wednesday 10 June City West: Thursday 11 June | City East: Friday 12 June 11am-3pm

Regression to the Mean

Don’t worry, you’ll always feel average eventually. Life is full of ups and downs, but as Kaitlin Kavanagh writes we can all look forward to nice, refreshing normal times.

Words ▶ Kaitlin Kavanagh Have you ever had a bad week, month or even a bad year? Have you experienced those long stints of time when everything is going horribly wrong and you’re in a negative state of mind that you just can’t seem to shake?

Then boy do I have a theory for you!

Okay enough with the sales pitch. On a more serious note, I believe that periods of really high highs and the lowest of lows are a part of the natural human experience. More than that, I believe it is something that we should embrace, even if those lows seem like something you’d rather forget. One of the most important things that I have learned to get through those difficult lows (and sometimes exasperating highs) is the regression to the mean.

The regression to the mean is the theory that ultimately, no matter how great things may seem, or how horrible life can get, you will always return to that “normal” state of being.

During this time, there’s probably nothing particularly notable happening in your life, no stressors or excitements. You’re able to just go on living until that next peak or descent. Admittedly, that kind of sounds like regression to the mean is just a zombie-like state, and no one wants that! But I don’t think that’s true at all. I believe that these moments are necessary for us to recharge and reflect.

Without these moments I’d probably be exhausted, and feel as if I were in a constant state of flux between happiness and sorrow. I take those moments to plan ahead, and catch up on things that I may have fallen behind on during busier periods.

The most important thing about the regression to the mean is that constant reminder in the back of my head that eventually, no matter how long it may take, things will eventually be okay.

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When Things Get Shaken Words | Images â–ś Gabriel Olaer

In light of the recent earthquakes in Nepal, Gabriel Olaer recalls his fond experiences of the beautiful city last year before the devastation, the importance of community and rebuilding.

Not even half a year ago, I was sitting on the steps of Maju Deval on the topmost level, being sheltered by this 17th Century structure. I was at a perfect vantage point as I watched everyone come out for Govardhan Puja, a Hindu holiday, to watch a cultural performance.

Kathmandu Durbar Square that day was packed, and despite the chaos there was harmony.

Nepal boasts a very diverse heritage and unique culture.

Kathmandu, in particular, has lured travellers because of its mystique–the ancient temples, exotic festivals, and the fusion of Buddhist ways and Hindu teachings. To top it all off, the city’s nestled in a valley 1400m high, with the towering Himalayas as the picturesque backdrop.

While I waited for the program to start, I competed with locals for the best view. They snacked on instant noodles–eating them as if they were a packet of chips –peanuts, and tea peddlers offered the more organic (gluten free/vegetarian) options.

I was trying to sketch the majestic pagodas that made up the Kathmandu skyline, while enchanting traditional music echoed. I also tried writing down the text on the streamer setup on the stage, with the help of two schoolgirls sitting next to me. “Just blankly staring at the beautiful structures, perched up high in a pagoda.

“Seeing how long and attractive the Nepalese people are.

29 Oct 2014,” I wrote. It was a beautiful, abstract piece of art – a bunch of tiny cabs, rickshaws laden in colour, women in traditional clothing, men with their pinkies intertwined, and western tourists wearing shorts and high white socks with cameras hanging around their necks.

This was a point in my life where I was yet to decide what I really wanted to do, maybe it was the itch in my feet that challenged me to pack my bags up take 6 months leave from work. My first moments in Kathmandu will always be as clear as if it happened last night, completely sober. It was almost so scary that I wanted to hop back in the plane. Arriving just after midnight, I braved through the airport that resembled a run-down bus terminal — it was chaotic and frightening. That’s what I felt at least.

Funnily, I took it as a realisation that sometimes when see the bad in things, we learn to appreciate the good.

The cobbled streets with balconies sticking out embellished by the delicate, carved windows spoke of an opulent past, while tourism has transformed this city to become a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

With the most humble spirit, the locals greeted me with, “Namaste” (I bless the Divine in you), and in an instant I felt at ease and welcomed. It was a wholesome and happy place, or at least that’s how I saw it.

In one of my entries I wrote, “No TV, No Vanity, No Flirting... Life is within reality... No malls, no net-cafes, and dancing is about fun.” I could never replicate the peacefulness of the quiet nights, spent up high in the mountains with only the light of a single candlestick. The silhouette of the mountains seemed to collide with the skies to form a tapestry that put me in a slumber.

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Despite the hustle of big city, you still see the simplicity of life–the little children playing on the dirt roads and Indian businessmen sipping tea with their competition, down to the playful monkeys on Swayambhunath Temple. The intricate carvings on red bricks created centuries ago are now just rubble on the ground.

This was a point in my life where I was yet to decide what I really wanted to do...

The smiles and delight from every beautiful Nepali, that lifted my spirit, are now temporarily replaced with sorrow. The greatest irony is, this is the place that saved me from my crumbling self, and now it’s my turn to help back.

In the wake of the natural disaster that has devastated this gem, it is important to remember that we can

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do something to help rebuild, if not, recover. A small contribution to organisations that are helping out Nepal right now will go far, missing a cup of coffee today may provide a temporary shelter for a family that may have even lost a loved one.

If you would like to donate to Oxfam’s Nepal disaster relief, visit www.oxfam.org.au/nepalearthquake or phone 1800 034 034, to provide clean water, toilets, hygiene kits, and shelter for the thousands affected.

Give Me My Lips Back Words ▶ Kayla Dickeson

#redmylips was a global social media campaign raising the awareness of sexual violence, Kayla Dickeson explores the confronting statistics here in Australia.

All throughout the month of April, I participated in the #RedMyLips2015 campaign to raise awareness about the global problem of sexual violence. It was and continues to be about challenging a structural and cultural violence that is of international permeation. Which, at the very root, starts with changing attitudes about sexual violence.

Regardless of gender, orientation, ethnicity, religious belief, economic status or current country of residence, sexual (and physical) violence has oftentimes become an accepted social norm from which everyone is supposed to safeguard

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themselves. Rather than putting the onus on the perpetrator, society has sought to teach us that we need to be “careful”, “cautious” and “alert”.

Yes, basic human survival dictates that we need to take responsibility for our own actions, of course. Yet, sexual violence is a global epidemic – even if it may seem obvious that we need to teach people not to sexually intimidate, harass or even rape. So, we must keep talking about it, challenging rhetoric, societal norms, structural society and institutions – only then can we see real change.

On a personal level, in April alone, I was chased around in clubs by guys asking for sex, or asking me to “rub” their junk, cornered by two guys trying to pressure me into a threesome, yelled at by a group of men in a taxi asking me to get in “for some fun”; all the while telling people “no”, I’m in a loving, healthy relationship. I shouldn’t have to have an excuse to not want to do something, anyway.

All I know is that this has to stop.

I just want to have fun with my friends without the fear of being sexually harassed.

I want my male friends to stop worrying about me when I’m walking to my car at night. Indeed, what I have experienced is minimal compared to others – but it is one part of an accepted social norm that is widespread in our society.

Sexual violence is a global problem and it will not get better until society accepts the gravity of the issue...

According to UN statistics, 35% of women globally have experienced some form of sexual violence. On average, 30% of sexual violence was committed by a partner. As many as 38% of murders are committed by an intimate partner. Yet in some countries it has been reported that 70% of women have experienced sexual violence on a national level. Oftentimes sexual violence goes unreported.

Global statistics for violence against men are difficult to find – with some countries not providing data at all.

But it is important to remember that violence against men does happen.

Men who experience violence live in a world of rampant under-reporting, due to the social stigma of being seen as unmasculine or weak.

Oftentimes, this is coupled with society’s denial that it is an existing problem at all.

According to the UN Human Rights Council’s 2011 report on physical and sexual violence against the LGBTIQ community, homophobic and transphobic violence is widespread across all regions – including physical, psychological and sexual. It is driven by a desire to punish those seen as defying gender norms.

Yes, in Australia sexual violence may be illegal, but while we have significant (but not yet perfect) protections in the law, we do not yet have safety in the streets, or in the home.

According to the latest statistics: – 1 in 5 women and 1 in 20 men have experienced sexual violence since the age of 15.

– 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men will be sexually abused before the age of 16.

– From the ages 15-18, 17% of women were sexually assaulted; 4% of men were sexually assaulted.

– 93% of offenders against women are reported to be male.

– 73.7% of violence against men is reported to be male-against-male violence.

– 1 in 6 reports rape to police and less than 1 in 7 reports incest or sexual penetration of a child result in prosecution.

– Information about violence against the LGBTIQ community Australia is limited and complicated due to a number of factors. A report has been published about the issue in 2012 by the Australian Institute of Family Studies.

In April, thousands of people around the world ‘red their lips’ to raise awareness about these statistics and give a real voice and true stories of experience to these issues – it was viewed internationally, mostly across social media with through the #RedMyLips hastag.

Sexual violence is a global problem and it will not get better until society accepts the gravity of the issue; challenges social norms, ideas and attitudes; and works to build real change.

I don’t want women and girls to feel like victims as they walk down the street. I don’t want men and boys to feel a constant sense of demonization and hostility. I don’t want LGBTIQ youth to feel like it’s not okay to be who they are.

This only leads to detachment, disassociation, anger and blame.

I want everyone to feel empowered, included, ready to work together on the big issues of our time – it is then, and only then, that we can all start to move forward.

– Family Violence costs Australia about $8 billion per year, a substantial proportion of which is borne by the victims themselves.

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Students, Scientists and Saltmarshes Words â–ś Tessa Roberts & Emmanuel Kuol Images â–ś Tessa Roberts, Ethan Cheyne, Mutsumi Katayama, Alison Walker

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One of the pleasures at Verse is being able to showcase the exciting things we are mostly unaware of all you go-getters get to experience. Tessa Roberts and Emmanuel Kuol show us that even a saltmarsh can be riveting.

When you first see a saltmarsh, you are immediately underwhelmed by its drab appearance.

‘Breathtaking beauty’ does not spring to mind and you don’t rush to include it in your next sightseeing trip or adventure holiday. However, upon closer inspection this seemingly insignificant ‘swamp’ is teeming with rare and wonderful migratory shorebirds and tiny, but amazing plants.

Just north of Mawson Lakes Campus, along the Gulf St Vincent lies our

very own Samphire Coast — and from the perspective of many, including UniSA Environmental Science students, experts, scientists and the shorebirds and rare plants that inhabit the area, it is an area of international significance.

The Samphire Coast is named so for its unique and complex coastal saltmarsh ecosystem, and more specifically after a small specialised salt-tolerant group of succulent plants called samphires. These tiny and seemingly insignificant plants

grow on the flat land which is flooded every so often by the tides, forming a saltmarsh.

The saltmarsh ecosystem is very vulnerable to damage and degradation and is currently listed as a threatened ecological community under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999 (EPBC 1999), with high conservational value. Saltmarshes support many rare and vulnerable species of plants and animals, including the vulnerable EPBC listed bead

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samphire and internationally important migratory shorebirds.

Our samphire coast is part of the East Asian Australasian flyway which encompasses 22 countries. Migratory birds visiting from as far as Russia and Alaska visit saltmarshes to fatten up before a very long flight back to breeding grounds on the other side of the world.

Increasing pressure from development, changing land use from the closing of the salt evaporation ponds at Dry Creek, threats from climate change and other human impacts all threaten this vulnerable ecosystem. The proposed Adelaide International Bird Sanctuary is planned for a significant portion of the salt evaporation ponds area, however what happens to the rest of the land will have huge impact on the region.

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Future planning is at the forefront and decisions made now are crucial.

During the study break this April, The Coastal Saltmarsh Ecology & Restoration Forum and Field Trip, was held on the 15th and 16th of April at the University of South Australia (Mawson Lakes), facilitated by the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management board with funding from the SA Government.

The Bachelor of Environmental Science 3rd year Restoration Ecology class ran the forum with assistance from University staff (particularly Joan Gibbs and Jelina Haynes) and Birdlife Australia staff

(Aleisa Lamanna and Jean Turner).

Expert speakers presented a broad range of themes around saltmarsh ecosystems at the forum on April 15th.

Students were lucky enough to witness presentations from high profile scientists and leading experts including influential scientist Professor Robert Costanza (Australian National University), saltmarsh ecologist Peri Coleman (Delta Environmental Consulting), marine biologist Associate Professor Sabine Dittman (Flinders University) and shorebird experts Aleisa Lamanna & Jean Turner (Birdlife Australia).

Over the course of two days an audience consisting of; council members, academics, NRM officers, Environmental consultants, restoration ecology students

and stakeholders witnessed presentations outlining the fundamental importance of the Samphire Coast coupled with field trip visits to significant sites to see restoration in practice.

The speakers all expressed an urgency to protect our coastal saltmarshes. The common goals expressed by the speakers at the Forum were the importance of education and environmental

awareness of the general public, stakeholders, planners and recreational coast users.

The speakers highlighted the vulnerability of the saltmarshes to human caused damage by vehicles and other environmental degradation.

The values of saltmarshes were determined by the various speakers and they included carbon sequestration, storm protection,

shorebird conservation, water filtration and purification and various cultural values (for both Aboriginal people and local residents and visitors alike).

Professor Robert Costanza discussed value of Saltmarshes in terms of ecological economics, describing their value based on natural capital (the ecosystem services they provide). This method is highly applicable to saltmarshes which

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planners and the importance of community engagement for conservation.

Future planning is at the forefront and decisions made now are crucial. The Adelaide Samphire Coast is going through some big changes and has many challenges ahead in the face of urban sprawl and climate change among others.

provide so many benefits to us, highlighting the urgent need for their protection and restoration. If planners and policy makers valued them in this way I’m sure saltmarshes would make the front page a bit more!

This multiday event offered a discussion and exchange of ideas about conservation of our coastal saltmarsh on the Adelaide Samphire coast. We certainly learned a whole lot and developed a huge appreciation of the importance of these drab little samphires and the saltmarshes in which they grow.

Ultimately the forum acknowledged the need for the further education of council and government

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The resilience of these important ecosystems and the plants and animals which rely on them will be tested, let’s hope it prevails.

To find out more about the Adelaide International Bird Sanctuary or our Samphire Coast or to get involved, visit parks.sa.gov.au or birdlife.org.au/ projects/samphire-coast-icon-project

Want to save some money on your textbooks for 2015?

Looking to sell textbooks from previous years?

USASA can help!

Visit USASA.sa.edu.au/Books or your USASA Campus Counter for more info.

Ethical is the New Black Words â–ś Kate Wakerley

Consumers in growing numbers are demanding that the clothes they wear are ethically-sourced. Kate Wakerley reports on the big waves of change rippling through the fashion industry.

There is a revolution starting in the fashion industry. A recent trend is changing the way we see and buy our clothes. But this time it’s not the leading brands and high-profile designers that are paving the way. Instead, it is a collection of fashion start-ups and independent clothing designers with ideals of providing quality clothes through sustainable and ethical manufacturing.

Fashion Revolution Day, which started last year, is part of a movement that calls for education and reform on the manufacturing conditions involved in the fashion supply chain.

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Last year, fashion designers Carry Somers and Orsola de Castro started the movement by encouraging their ecoconscious followers on social media to post a photo of themselves wearing their clothes inside out and ask the simple question: Who made my clothes?

Since then, the #FashRev campaign has spread to over 60 countries, with tens of thousands of conscious consumers participating in the first Fashion Revolution Day. Many designers, writers, business leaders, and politicians are now involved in the global conversation.

But the Fashion Revolution is much more than just a catchy hashtag. The movement was started to honour the one-year anniversary of Rana Factory collapse in Bangladesh. The April 2013 collapse killed 1,133 people and left more than 2,500 people injured. It has since been recorded as one of the worst manufacturing incidents in history.

Big brands were also impacted by the catastrophe, as the Rana Plaza workers were responsible for the production of clothing brands such as Zara, JC Penney, and Mango.

However, because so many of those big brands use a wide range of supply chains to source their materials, they are not always aware of where those materials come from. The Fashion Revolution hopes to change that and create a fashion industry that is more transparent.

Sadly, ‘fast fashion’ brands like H&M and Zara remain widely successful despite the attention to their questionable supply chains through social campaigns.

On the other hand, there are a growing number of ethically conscious fashion consumers who are starting to look elsewhere. They shop exclusively from designers or brands that are committed to providing ethically produced clothing and giving back to the community.

In the last few years we have seen a growing number of fashion social enterprises become popular. These brands market themselves as an ethical alternative to massproduced fashion big brands. They seem to be driven by the widespread public outrage of at brands that produce clothing in exploitative and unethical conditions.

The current fast fashion market is designed to make us think about the price tag and ignore the production process.

This conversation is particularly important as Australian consumers have embraced the introduction of international fast fashion chains such as H&M, Zara, and Forever 21. The opening of Swedish retail giant H&M in Melbourne last year saw thousands of people lining up to enter the first Australian store.

TOMS sell their shoes by marketing themselves as a social enterprise. They have created the buy-one-give one concept, where for every pair of TOMS shoes you purchase, one will be donated to someone in need. This approach has been very successful for the brand – TOMS shoes are now stocked in major stores worldwide.

While we love the experience of buying stylish clothing at affordable prices, we need to understand that there is much more behind a $4 t-shirt. The piece of clothing is produced by numerous workers who produce the raw materials and then to cut and sew the garment in factories. It’s not always safe, and it’s not always ethical.

The current fast fashion market is designed to make us think about the price tag and ignore the production process.

At the end of the day it is the retailers that make the ultimate decision - they decide whether or not to commit to ethical fashion. As consumers we have a responsibility as well. We have the freedom to decide which clothes we wear and where we shop. By choosing to shop with a conscious we can show retailers that we care about how our clothes are being made and the conditions they are made in.

Events such as Fashion Revolution Day help consumers all over the world understand what is involved with the production of their clothes and let them know what they can do to make a real difference.

The number of people around the world who have committed to the Fashion Revolution is encouraging.

You can make a difference by joining the conversation online, supporting ethical brands, and asking, “Who made my clothes?”

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Clothes for Fat Girls Words ▶ Heather McGinn

The beauty myth has always been a contentious issue in our materialistic society. Heather McGinn explores the subject with an important message in self-confidence.

You own your body, and that means you get to choose how to cover (or, indeed, uncover) it. You do not need to subscribe to the notion that you must hide your flesh in order not to offend small-minded fools.

“But won’t people stare at me if I go around flaunting my body?” you ask me. Yes, of course, because you’re fucking fabulous. I like to assume that anyone staring at me is either fascinated by me, daydreaming about what it would be like to kiss me, or working up the courage to ask me where I bought my skirt.

“Won’t I be subject to insults?” you ask me. Yes, and that says something about the person hurling the insults, and nothing about you. It says that they’re an idiot. Ignore them, and get on with enjoying yourself and your outfit.

I get insulted verbally, on a daily basis, and all I can summon up for these unfortunate people is a feeling of pity. Clearly they have nothing better to do.

I have spent an inordinate amount of time being dreadfully anxious and upset about clothes, and I just don’t have the energy to do that anymore. Loving my body and having fun with clothes makes me happy, and saves me a whole bunch of time that, in the past, would have been spent crying in changing rooms, having panic attacks, or worrying about what other people might think of my outfit and what it says about me.

I’m shaped like a dumpling. I have a belly, boobs, a butt, and arms and legs which would not look out of place on a rugby field. I fluctuate between a size 14 and a size 18. The only thing tiny about me are my ears (seriously, they’re freakishly elf-like), so I feel I’m qualified to put in my two cents about fat girls and the clothes we wear.

Here’s the thing; wear whatever you want.

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Obviously we all have off days, where we just feel a tad flat and want to blend into the background, and end up in our favourite old jeans and a snuggly cardigan. I am not suggesting that you be uncomfortable. What I am suggesting is that you dress for yourself, and love every minute of it. Wear what gives you joy, puts a spring in your step, and discombobulates uptight people.

Going Postal Words ▶ Alyssia Tennant

There is nothing quite like finding a hand written letter amongst your bills and junk mail, Alyssia Tennant talks about the sentimentality of old-school snail mail.

The smell of an old book. My stomach after an afternoon spent at my grandparent’s. A cute kitten video on YouTube. These are all things that really warm the soul.

I love them, but it feels as though all good things must come to an end: it’s weird if I sniff an old book for an extended period of time, the food high will sadly end and I will return to my regular meals, and I rarely get to dedicate hours of my time to watching kittens on the Internet because I have a degree to finish.

The reason I am such a big fan of mail is because when you write it, you get to picture their face with they read it; you get to decorate the page with writing that is unique to you; you get to sometimes cross things out when you haven’t worded or spelt them correctly, and that’s great because not only is the reader getting to know you but they get to feel your experience through both your words and your writing. Not to mention it’s nice to open your letterbox and see something that isn’t bills or junk-mail.

But the thing that I really love is a good, old-fashioned letter. The inconsistencies of the ink, the creases in the page where it’s been folded to fit into an envelope, the fuzzy feeling that accompanies a nice letter... A used piece of paper. Mine to keep.

Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about the advantages and disadvantages of snail mail, and as you might expect there’s not a lot going for it in terms of timeliness.

But it’s the kind of thing that trumps sending a simple “hey” over Messenger, because you think about what you’re saying – you send a longer message than usual and you’re confident that it’s worth reading, and if it isn’t, you’ve still gone to the extra effort which people generally appreciate.

Gone are the days of waiting days two weeks for a reply to your well thought out letters. Gone are those days indeed, and I miss them terribly.

When I was younger, my cousins in England used to correspond with me only via the post and even though we were able to call, there was something comforting and cockle-warming about getting something hand written because I knew that it meant they had been thinking of me. Now, at Christmas time I get a wallpost on Facebook.

There are a few things I’ve learnt about friendship that hold the utmost importance with me. The first is that you should always let those you care about know how much they mean to you and that they’re worth your time and effort. The second is that it feels good to make your friends happy.

You can guess what I’m going to say can do both of these things. Yep, mail.

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Imagine a Day! Words ▶ Annie Vaughton Images ▶ Keith Odendaal (Narrative Series, Brighter the Light, the Darker the Shadow)

Wouldn’t it be nice to have just one perfect day? No guilt, no burden, no stress. Annie Vaughton writes about 24 hours of bliss.

Imagine a day without question…can you?

A glorious, blissful day of just being. A day to feel pure joy without guilt sneaking up behind to pull the heavy black bag over your being, shutting out the warm glow of pleasure.

No question of worth… No question of how?

When? Why? A day without the ugly realisation of the pain you would cause others if only to stifle the pain within. Guilt, even now a watchdog at the gates of the prison, snarling, jaws letting forth fetid breath at the mere scent of escape.

Imagine a day without need for the numbing effect of alcohol, drugs or adrenaline. A day that lasts a whole day without fear of failure… Have I earned the imprints I’ve left on this soil today? Have I done enough to make up for the oxygen I greedily inhale, the food I consume and the resources I so readily gobble and hoard from others surely more deserving?

Hmmm… Imagine a song without question. A sad, mellow, song yes, but just that… A song. A collection of words and feelings bound together with the simple strings of tune. Lyrics accepted as such and not interpreted as a potential eulogy, an explanation of a life wasted, a lost soul adrift on a river of self-loathing.

Alas guilt barks again… Is this self-pity straining to be heard? Would everyone gather to say, how sad, perhaps she is better off, and feel better themselves, or would such a selfish act be seen as just that?

Imagine a day of spontaneity! No hiding behind the order of neatly stacked shelves to disguise the disorder within.

The jumbled thoughts, the worries, the fears…

The questions.

A place for everything and everything in its place. A sergeant at arms, at attention, forever wary.

Imagine a day of standing before a mirror without seeing ugliness, shame hidden behind a hastily fastened towel.

Imagine a good deed done selflessly not out of the selfish desire to be seen as “good” by others as well as oneself.

Imagine liking yourself and not worrying if others will like you too.

Imagine a day of clear skies, soft breeze and the horizon clearly in view.

Imagine a day without question… Can I? If you or anyone in your life are showing signs of depression or mental illness, please act immediately and visit www.beyondblue.org.au.

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Adelaide Japanese Animation Society Club Afghan Students Association (unincorporated) AIESEC South Australia Architecture & Interior Architecture Graduation Show Artists, Gamers, Programmers United Artcircle Australia-China Youth Association UniSA Chapter (ACYA@UniSA) Aviation and Aerospace Student Organization (A3SO) Bangladeshi Student Society UniSA Baker University (UniSA) BOSS - Builders Organisation for Staff and Students Bright Futures Society - UniSA Budget Man (Running Man English Remake) Campus Christian Movement Club Chinese Student Business Development Association (Unincorporated) (CBDA) Chinese students and scholars association at UniSA (Unincorporated) 中国学联 Commerce Student Association Community Connect EDGE (English Development for Greater Eligibility) Evangelical Students Magill Evangelical Students Mawson Lakes Gamers Alliance (UniSAGA) Indonesian Student Society of University of South Australia (PPIA UniSA) International Student Business Society - Hong Kong Chapter International Students Business Society (ISBS: Malaysia Chapter) Islamic Society UniSA Journalism Events Society Club Labor Club Laboratory Medicine Student's Society League of Legends UniSA Club Magill Film Society Mature Adult Support Service Network (MASS Net) Mawson Student Network (MSN) MED RADical Club Media Medical Science Society MERC - Mechatronic Engineering Robotics Club Movie Lovers (Whyalla) 70+ Social, Academic & Cultural clubs!

Music Lover Nursing and Midwifery Social Club Visit USASA.sa.edu.au/clubs to find Oaktree South Australia out more & become a member!

Overseas Christian Fellowship (OCF) UniSA Oxygen Club Persian Society at UniSA Planning Social Postgraduate Scholars Association (Unincorporated) R.E.D. Dance Club ROUSTAH The Rural Health Club for UniSA RuShi Buddhist Youth Group South Asian Arts Society STEMSEL UniSA The Entrepreneur Party (EP) Tourism and Event Management Club UnderGrad Psychology Club UniSA Ballet Club UniSA French Club UniSA Marketing Club UniSA Meditation Club UniSA Occupational Therapy UniSA Physiotherapy Student Society UniSA Postgraduate Society (Business Coursework and MBA) UniSA Pride Club UniSA Singapore Student Association SSA (unincorporated) UniSA United Nations & International Relations Society UniSA Visual Arts Students' Club UniSA Visual Communication Student's Club University of South Australia City Evangelical Students (UniSA City ES) University of South Australia Liberal Club USALSA- University of South Australia Law Students Association USASOE (UNISA Society of Engineers) USATSA (University of South Australia Tamil Student Association) VGen UniSA Vietnamese Student Society in the University of South Australia

Oz Comic–Con Words & Images ▶ Storm Warman

There’s an alternate universe of cool in the Adelaide Showgrounds during a highly anticipated weekend in April, where appreciating comic books, zombies and superheroes gives you the golden geek ticket. Storm Warman talks to a panel of comic creatives whose fan base of con-verts just keeps growing.

Comic-Con is like a convention of smiles where it’s ok to be weird. In fact, weird is the norm. Amongst a sea of giddy devotees to popular culture who probably believe ‘The Big Bang Theory’ is a reality show, it’s a very happy place indeed.

Australia’s Comic-Con is based on the format originally developed in San Diego in 1970, where the convention not only showcased comic books and science fiction/ fantasy related film and television, but also held important debates about the bathroom habits of Superman, how do Daleks go down stairs, and who would be the hardest ass-kicker in a DC Vs Marvel cage fight. Well, perhaps I’ve included my own musings here.

Good or bad, Comic-Con has been embraced by the masses and this annual show attracts more and more con-verts every year. The event features a prolific

of comic and video game industries. Artist’s alley is where you might discover a new favourite artist, or just watch talent at work.

After a morning of kicking aside a knee-hacking, minature Jon Snow swinging a plastic sword; I limped along to a panel discussion by a successful group of comic creators.

Bobby Curnow is an American comic creator and editor of IDW’s “My Little Pony”, “Jurassic Park”, and a miniseries called “Killing the Cobra”.

Tristan Jones is an Australian writer and illustrator who has worked for Vertigo and IDW, with the critically acclaimed “Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”, “Ghostbusters”, “Infestation: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” series, and is currently working on “Mad Max”.

amount of multi-genre content across pop culture and entertainment. There are gaming demonstrations, cosplay (costume play) competitions, previews of upcoming feature films, t-shirts, toys and collectibles.

The event that sees the most smiles and hears the most squeals is undoubtedly the panel appearances of cult film and television stars. Here fans are provided with the ultimate nerd bait – an exclusive opportunity to interact with the actors during photo and autograph sessions.

For those who are interested with breaking into the industry, there are exclusive panels, seminars, workshops, and portfolio review sessions with top media companies

Nicola Scott is an Australian comic book artist working in the American industry with Dark Horse, Image and IDW. Nicola also works exclusively for DC Entertainment on “Birds Of Prey”, “Secret Six”, “Wonder Woman”, “Teen Titans”, “Superman” and, most recently, “Earth 2”. Nicola is the first female creator to design a Batman B&W collectable and has had numerous official action figures based on her work.

Tom Taylor is an award-winning and #1 New York Times bestselling comic book author, playwright and screenwriter. He is well known for his work on the DC Comics series “Injustice: Gods Among Us” and his many “Star Wars” works. Tom is the co-creator and head writer

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of the upcoming CG animated series “The Deep” based on his graphic novel series of the same name, which won the Aurealis Award for Best illustrated book/ graphic novel.

What is one of the biggest challenges you face with developing creative work?

TJ: When faced with a deadline you can’t have everything you want. It needs to work for everyone else and you have to tune the page and not be too finicky about getting it how you want it.

NS: You’ve got to be able to maintain a constant pace, to maintain a constant energy to get it all out. The deadline is the biggest challenge.

BC: You have to be on the ball all of the time. You’ve got to prioritise and compromise, and have discipline.

TJ: I was working on “Mad Max” until 4am this morning and at my table today.

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Do a lot of young illustrators burn out when they start out?

NS: You’ve got to be able to find the balance of having your own life. This is a dream job but you have to make choices.

Do you have to travel to the United States to make it, or can you stay here in Australia?

TJ: Being in the States does help you in a networking sense. I was in New York last year, and going to shows where most of the industry is. It gave me so much exposure and professional push.

BC: I’m the dissenting voice. You don’t have to go to the States to make it.

TT: Hanging out with people who do what you do is really important.

This is a dream job but you have to make choices.

What is the best bit of advice you’ve been given for your career?

NS: Editors are looking for three things – quality, deadlines, and someone who is nice to work with. Be at least two of those things.

BC: Don’t be afraid of failure, just put it out there.

When starting out, is it more important to specialise or be a generalist to approach publishers?

TJ: Having your own style is more important. You have to be happy doing what you’re doing. Decide what it is you really want to do.

It’s a big bloody world and there will be someone looking for what you do.

NS: Start with zero and do as much work as you can and what YOU do – not what anyone else does. Otherwise it will be a grind.

BC: Set yourself apart, there are enough sub-par generalists out there in the comic world. If you don’t have passion for what you do, it will show in your work.

Go to where you can feel inspired. Art school and Uni are important but won’t be the whole package for you.

Bobby Curnow @thedisastrix Tristan Jones @TRexJones Nicola Scott @nicolascottart Tom Taylor @TomTaylorMade

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In[ter]view Verse Mag’s Regular Graduate Interview Words ▶ Storm Warman | Photos ▶ Courtesy of Dan Hennessy

With a killer style and lots of hard work, Dan Hennessy has kicked many goals as a graphic designer and an all round great guy. From working for Sagmeister & Walsh to life in New York, Dan’s passion is a tell-all for how to live the dream.

Congratulations on your success Dan, your hard work has taken you from strength to strength. What’s a typical workday like for you?

My typical work day varies so much. At the Hugo & Marie studio we work on such a wide variety of projects. It might be a new sleeve for an album, print packaging, storyboarding for a video, branding, working on fashion e-commerce sites, or even curating and updating artists portfolios that Hugo & Marie represent. It’s a mixed bag and thats what keeps it exciting. It’s nice to always be exposed to new and different projects from different disciplines within design. On the weekends and evenings I’m usually working on freelance projects for clients or some ongoing work for Sagmeister & Walsh. It’s an intense workflow!

You put in a portfolio at one of your favorite studios and only a few months later you were interning with Sagmeister & Walsh, New York. What was your strategy with the portfolio design and your personal approach to make this happen?

With my portfolio my strategy was to set myself apart from what other graduates were doing. I created a newsprint portfolio that was affordably printed in mass. They could be handed out like a magazine or a newspaper. Cheap and disposable—Similar to designers I guess!

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Besides obviously great work, what do you think has most impressed Sagmeister about you to keep a freelance relationship beyond the internship?

Something that Stefan always says is ‘Work hard and be nice to people.’ Ultimately that is paramount. I don’t think talent is as important as being a hard worker. I always want the outcome to be the best I can do, and if that means working until 5am to get it to where it needs to be —that’s what it takes. I am very passionate about design and that’s probably my biggest asset.

Who or what influences on your creative way of thinking?

While I was traveling in the US I sent my portfolio to the studio along with a cover letter. It featured a list of things you can do with a newspaper if you don’t like the work— such as a good window cleaner or useful as kitty litter. I put my portfolio in with little expectation of hearing back from the company. Within a few days I was contacted by Jessica Walsh asking if I was available to Intern.

People that influence me in design are the thinkers — Tibor Kalman, James Victore and Stefan Sagmeister come to mind. They all have fantastic ideas and an interesting perspective on design, regardless of trendy aesthetic.

So you arrive for your first day in one of today’s most influential studios. Were you a little star struck and what was your favorite brief?

I am very passionate about design and thats probably my biggest asset.

I wasn’t star struck, more eager to learn and hope that I could perform. I had only worked in a small Adelaide studio called TypeSpace before Sagmeister and Walsh.

I was undoubtably very excited to work alongside someone who I had revered since I started studying design in High School.

My favorite Brief is an application design which I am currently still working on which is a personal development app which coincides with Stefan’s work on Happiness and Design. I am creating a custom typeface, illustrations and working on the user interface.

In terms of aesthetic I am inspired by a lot of art, I like to go to the Chelsea galleries in New York in the weekend and check out the vast array of exciting work and ideas.

Its nice to get out and see things.

I think we all fall victim to being inspired by blogs or Pinterest boards, which is undoubtably a great resource, but I think its so much more stimulating to get out and see things.

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Now you’re working with another highly creative studio that is Hugo & Marie. What is your most recent project?

My most recent project at Hugo & Marie was the new Alabama Shakes album with my creative director Mario Hugo. We produced artwork for a 12” vinyl, CD and booklet, single artwork and a promotional animation video for the album. It was a very exciting, fast paced project with a very rewarding outcome.

What advice would you give to up and coming designers?

I think the best advice I can give is to stay passionate about design and not forget why you fell in love with it in the first place. Try new things and reach out to the people you look up to. There is a lot of opportunity out there for designers! I never thought I would be living and working in New York and i’m excited to see what’s around the corner. www.dan-hennessy.com

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• • • • •

Failed a subject?

Problem with a lecturer?

Received an Academic Misconduct letter?

Received any communication from the university for your academic performance?

Received an assessment grade you’re not happy with?

Contact a USASA Advocate to make an appointment USASA.Advocate@unisa.edu.au It’s free, confidential and independent

#USASAsocial As the rain threatened to ruin the brand spanking new pages of our magazine, the courtyard of Worldsend Hotel was filled with the people who helped to create the first 2015 edition of Verse. Free food, drinks, live music, and an art exhibition from our feature artist — what more could you want. Check out some of the photos and see you there next edition!

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Sorry that my cross stitch sample is too big, 2015, Alex Perisic

The art of Alex Perisic

Imag[in]e Verse Mag’s Regular Art & Design feature

Alex Perisic is a visual arts student currently under taking full time honours specialising in sculpture and installation. Destined for huge things, Alex’s pieces provide a brave, challenging and intelligent experience.

Can you tell us a few things about your methods and how you work?

I experiment with a range of making techniques and mediums in the studio, so my work usually stems from sporadic thoughts or post-conversational cues and from there I’ll produce something as quickly as I thought of it. And I think the freedom of installation art allows this relaxed play to unfold.

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What inspires your work?

I tend to draw on the preconceived ideas and social constructs that operate in our everyday world and the human experience, particularly my experience of being a female and how it has unavoidably been shaped by boundaries and limitations.

You recently installed commission work for Topham Mall as a commissioned artist for Adelaide City Council.

How was that experience?

As an emerging artist the prospect of creating a sustaining practice can be daunting, so the opportunity proved to be a rewarding experience. I became quite attached to my pieces after working through the many challenges of public installations, so I’m still learning to not walk past and clean them everyday.

Who are you favourite artists?

British artist Sarah Lucas would have to be my favourite, she’s definitely a noticeable influence within my practice.

Also can’t go past Jenny Holzer and Cindy Sherman, both strong intelligent women who are self-confident enough to make socially provocative commentary.

You can check out more work by Alex at https://alexperisic.wordpress.com If you’d like to feature your artwork in the next issue of Verse Mag send some samples to contact@versemag.com.au

I always carry a spare, 2013, Rubber, Fabric, Alex Perisic

Above: Soap series, 2014, Bronze, Alex Perisic

Below: America, 2012, Porcelain, Alex Perisic

Above: Maybe she’s born with it, 2015, Wax, Alex Perisic

Below: Tasty dishes from stale bread, 2014, Plaster, Alex Perisic

Above: Commissioned Work – Topham Mall, 2015, Alex Perisic

Below: Something like this, but not this, 2013, Steel, Alex Perisic

Afternoon Delight, 2012, Found Object, Fire Engine, Alex Perisic

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VO X Verse Mag’s Student Voice Box Photos ▶ Gabriel Olaer

We took to the streets to ask the hard-hitting, controversial questions that put Verse at the forefront of investigative journalism. Take a look at what you had to say…

1. What made you decide to do your course?

2. Why did you wear something red today?

1. “Coverage in all areas, which what I wanted” 2. “No idea, it was in the cupboard... So I picked it.”

Lachlan, 3rd Year, Business Administration

1. ““I like children, I’d like to play with them... I’d like to design toys for them”” 2. “I love red! I’m Chinese, it’s a very good colour in Chinese!”

Lin, 1st Year, Masters of Early Childhood Education

1. “I want to own my business myself, I want to get into fashion one day.”

2. “It was pretty cold outside, it was the first thing I looked at that’s nice and warm, and just grabbed it.”

Liam, 1st Year, Business Management

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1. “I did my Bachelor’s in Accounting as well.”

2. “I like this colour.”

Nikita, Masters in Accounting

1. “To meet a whole new group of people, learn culture and build contacts around the world.”

2. “It’s convenient for working in the hot shop, it’s light weight.”

1. “It’s a difficult question... I don’t know.”

2. “It was raining, it can catch some rain, for some protection.”

Rita, PhD in Hawke Institute

Connor, Exchange Student University of Sunderland, England – Glass Ceramics

1. “More just going to Open Days, and just eventually decided that I wanted to.”

2. “Just felt like it... I like Superman, as well – which is red.”

1. “I don’t know, it’s the only thing I really like.”

2. “This is my favourite scarf.”

Lily, 2nd Year, Bachelor of Visual Arts

Matt, 4th Year Interior Architecture

1. “Passion. Divorces. 35 years as a jeweller. I decided to follow my heart.”

2. “Because I hate the liberal party, they’re trying to destroy the university system.”

Peter, 2nd Year, Bachelor of Visual Arts, Major in Glass

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Driving Home Words â–ś Sam Richards

they are on the freeway the light diffused across the wet bitumen in sheets which behave like shadows traversing conditions of great risk emerging unscathed without flinches awe or other acknowledgement as if all was normal nothing extraordinary or even particularly graceful they get through by ignorant blundering by a perfectly timed step out of the way of a plummeting piano followed by a curious and soon-abandoned glance over the shoulder then look back to the road with the dials radiant hinting at speeds through the steering wheel under knuckles red with neon glow and the suburban lights pin pointed across distant invisible contours hinting at hills but they long for the source

for antecedence to indication to halt the lily before it’s carried over the cascade to fumble it with wet fingers quickly because they’re not allowed up here and whisper this is true this is not yet all is mediated warped by mediation they are condemned to guesswork and they are going home with eyes chattering of all they would do to just be home and the lines of communication between the risk and them must be severed for they are overcome by an exhaustion only conceivable in severance

Film Reviews Words ▶ Stefanie Parletta

While cinemas become child-ridden in the colder months of the year, I always find it is worth braving the storm, as winter is sure to deliver at least one gem of a film that can be enjoyed by all ages.

Shaun the Sheep Movie (2015)

Shaun The Sheep Movie is the newest release from the creators of Wallace & Gromit and Chicken Run. The film follows Shaun and his flock on an adventure to the big city to save their farmer. Despite the complete lack of dialogue, the film succeeds in conveying not only a storyline but also a whole heap of emotion.

The film is full of adorable details and English charm.

Although you might have to sit in a cinema full of kids, this one is definitely worth a watch.

Fast & Furious 7 (2015)

If you like fast cars, bald men, ridiculous stuns, and the objectification of women, Furious 7 is the film for you!

We follow “the family” on yet another journey across the globe to chase down a bad guy. New director James Wan faced a tough task in paying tribute to star Paul Walker without straying from the F&F feel.

Wan has done a stellar job, the film is eccentric and over the top, and as the final scene bids farewell to Walker sobs could be heard throughout the cinema.

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Cinderella (2015)

Cinderella is a big-budget retelling of a classic childhood fairy tale. Although this version of the story doesn’t stray far from the original, it does add a layer of decadence through the colourful and theatrical set and costume design. Cate Blanchett is wonderfully wicked as the evil stepmother and embodies the role perfectly while also bringing a new dimension to the character.

I encourage you to see this film in cinemas as the emotional highs and lows of the story are only enhanced by children throughout the theatre bursting into tears or loudly cheering.

The DUFF (2015)

This comedy follows the journey of Bianca, a young girl who discovers she is the Designated Ugly Fat Friend of her friendship group. Despite Bianca not being overweight or unattractive she must go on a clichÊ journey to reinvent herself, accompanied by an attractive jock that she later falls for. Some have compared the film to Mean Girls, despite the film’s lack of golden oneliners, the one-dimensional characters, and absence of Gretchen Wieners.

I recommend not going to see this film but rather staying home and watching Mean Girls instead.

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Music Reviews Words ▶ Caleb Sweeting

With Groovin’ The Moo still ringing in my ears, I thought I’d review albums by my favourite acts at this year’s festival. There really isn’t anything like experiencing live music and these bands are sure to be heading back to Adelaide soon – so get familiar!

Sticky Fingers (2014)

The boys from Sticky Fingers are all overdue for a haircut and usually found wearing scraggily looking clothes from the thrift shop – but it’s what makes them cool (as well and their music of course). Hailing from the streets of Sydney their second album, ‘Land Of Pleasure’ has brought a little bit of reggae into the Australian music industry.

Whether it is the infectious opening riff of ‘Rum Rage’, the spaced out sounds of ‘Velvet Skies’, or the upbeat muscle-mover ‘Gold Snafu’, Sticky Fingers really do bring your ears to the ‘Land Of Pleasure’ on this one.

Wolfmother (2005)

Wolfmother’s self-titled debut album may be five-yearsold, but it’s still Aussie rock gold. ‘Woman’ and ‘Joker and the Thief’ really put the 70s inspired band on the map.

This year the band was revived, with two new members and a place on the Groovin The Moo festival.

The band has proven they can still bring in the crowds, they can still shred - let’s just hope they’re working on a new album with just as much heavy distorted guitar, and that Zeppeliny sound that we came to love on their first album.

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Hilltop Hoods (2014)

Adelaide’s own hip-hop kings Hilltop Hoods have gone from strength to strength with their seventh album, ‘Walking Under Stars’, recently reaching platinum.

The follow up to ‘Drinking from the Sun’ shows how much the trio has matured, moving away from rhymes about getting wasted to a more serious and even sombre musical masterpiece with songs like ‘Live and Let Go’ and ‘Through the Dark’.

‘Walking Under Stars’ proves that the Hoods’ are the leading force in Aussie hip-hop and still have plenty of noise to make in the future.

The Delta Riggs (2014)

While the The Delta Riggs second album, “Dipz Zebazios” may be hard to pronounce, it is oh-so easy fall in love with. Featuring some spaced-out sounds, along with fuzzy guitars, it’s fun and spontaneous. ‘Supersonic Casualties’ is definitely my personal favourite, however ‘The Records Flawed’ probably gets me groovin’ the most.

The Riggs not only have the talent, but they also have ‘the look’ - they are super cool... I mean even Dave Grohl thinks the Melbourne band can rock, having them support Foo Fighters on their Australian tour earlier this year.

Enough said!

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Book Reviews Words ▶ Caity Johnson

It’s hard to make time for reading at uni. Maybe you don’t know what’s new or maybe you want to try something different. Here’s a look at four different books that may help you with that.

The Book of Days

K. A. Barker When sixteen-year-old Tuesday wakes from her sleep she has no memory of her life before she woke up in the Unreality House, only a letter from her past self begging her to start new.

This young adult story is the author’s debut novel and all things considered, it’s a very charming read. The story seems a bit stretched in places but hilarious banter from the male characters helps to engage you in the book and the ending will likely catch you quite off-guard. A refreshing fantasy read probably unlike others you’ve read lately.

We Were Liars

E. Lockhart A rich and seemingly close family spend their holiday on their private island every year, but there are secrets nobody talks about. Truths that are stranger than fiction…

I recommend going into this book with no expectations.

I really didn’t know anything going into this other than it being very popular in the US and the UK and I’m so glad of it. The way the story unfolds is so much more gripping, mysterious and shattering if you don’t expect it.

Read it. And if anyone asks you how it ends, just lie…

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Austin and Austin

Cats, Scarves and Liars

Kathryn White This book follows a 23-year-old Adelaide woman called Peppa, whose life is a bit of a mystery–a murder mystery to be exact. I was somewhat sceptical going into this book as it’s set in Adelaide, which is not the most exciting of locations. However, whatever we lose from location, we more than get back in plot; I had to read it in one sitting. All of the characters were fantastic, really very complex despite it being a short story.

My jaw was literally dropping throughout the book and I’d happily recommend it to everyone in Adelaide.

Hyperbole and a Half

Allie Brosh I’ll be honest, I haven’t laughed so hard at a book in a long time. I had read a few of Allie’s blogs and got so excited when I saw that they had been compiled into a book that I bought it on sight. I have zero regrets.

Allie writes and draws about various life situations she’s lived through, as you can probably tell from the full title, and she has some magical power that makes everything hysterical.

It may well be her drawings throughout the book I’m not sure, but whatever she’s doing, she’s doing it right.

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