Out and About with Liberty: Visiting A Living Relic of Second Life’s Golden Age | Art and Adventure Unveiled: The Grand Opening of the Land of Sleeping Giants | Events & Announcements | New Locations
10/26/2024
OUT AND ABOUT WITH LIBERTY: VISITING A LIVING RELIC OF SECOND LIFE’S GOLDEN AGE
In the ever-changing landscape of Second Life®, few regions stand the test of time as gracefully as Svarga, one of our virtual world's most iconic locations. Created in 2006 by resident Laukosargas Svarog, this ancient island remains a beacon of creativity, innovation, and mythological charm that continues to inspire and captivate visitors nearly two decades later. Praised by Philip Linden, creator of SL, as one of the closest representations of his original vision, it offers a unique blend of interactive storytelling, artificial life experimentation, and immersive design.
A World Built Before Sculpted Prims
Svarga was born in the early days of SL – a time when builders were limited to the most basic tools — before sculpted and flexible prims, let alone mesh, existed. Everything you see there is made from basic prims (primitives), but don’t let that simplicity fool you. The region is a masterpiece of early virtual architecture and design, pushing the boundaries of what was thought possible with these limited resources.
The island, according to the tour led by a wasp guide, was built on the remnants of a collapsed volcanic caldera. Its cliffs, valleys, and structures feel organic, as if sculpted by the forces of nature, and the lush, green environment is brought to life by a sophisticated ecosystem that continues to impress visitors even today.
What sets Svarga apart from other SL regions is its pioneering artificial life system. The island is home to a self-sustaining ecosystem, with plants that grow and propagate on their own, thanks to a complex code that simulates life cycles. This living environment adds a dynamic layer to the island, making each visit a unique experience.
During the daytime, visitors can witness bees buzzing from flower to flower, collecting nectar and pollinating the plants. In a darker twist, some of these bees fall prey to carnivorous plants, creating a virtual food chain that makes the ecosystem feel alive. This level of interactivity and realism was groundbreaking when first introduced and continues to delight and fascinate explorers even today.
Rain and Weather Systems also play a role in maintaining the health of the plants, adding to the immersive, natural feel. The complex weather system showers the landscape, helping the flora grow—a small but significant touch that makes the island feel truly alive.
The Mythological Inspiration Behind Svarga
The island is steeped in European mythology, with its name, Svarga, referencing the Slavic concept of Heaven, the residence of the god Svarog. Svarog is the god of fire, sky and blacksmithing, and the island reflects these ancient, mystical themes. Visitors often describe Svarga as feeling like a place out of time, a realm where ancient gods might dwell amidst the peaceful gardens and grand stone structures.
For those seeking a deeper connection with the island's mythology, there is a hidden oracle located beneath the surface. Visitors can donate L$20 or more to charity in exchange for a word of wisdom from this ancient entity—a nod to the mystical and otherworldly atmosphere that pervades the island.
A Visionary Creation in SL’s Early Days
Svarga’s creator, Laukosargas Svarog, built the island in a way that resonated deeply with Philip Linden (Philip Rosedale), the founder of Second Life®. In interviews, he praised Svarga for coming closest to his original vision for SL as a platform where users could create immersive, interactive worlds that would evolve over time. Svarga’s intricate ecosystem and mythological depth made it a living example of what could be achieved in this virtual space.
Many SL regions are built for temporary enjoyment, but Svarga was designed to stand the test of time—and has done so remarkably. Linden Lab recognised its importance and took action in 2010 to preserve it, purchasing the region to ensure its continued existence as an SL landmark. This cemented Svarga’s place in SL history and allowed new generations of users to experience its magic.
Interactive Wonders for Visitors
For those exploring Svarga for the first time, a few highlights make the experience unforgettable:
- The Central Tower: The island’s central tower offers visitors a panoramic view of the entire region. Climbing the tower reveals books about Second Life’s history and mythology, adding a thoughtful, educational layer to the experience.
- Bridges and Walkways: Svarga is connected by scenic bridges and paths that guide visitors across the landscape, making exploration intuitive and enjoyable.
- Elfin Musical Instruments: One of the more whimsical aspects of Svarga is the set of elfin musical instruments to be found. These interactive features invite visitors to play music together, adding a playful and collaborative element to the experience.
- Floral Relaxation: Svarga also offers peaceful floral environments for those seeking quiet contemplation. Visitors can sit back and enjoy the serene atmosphere, far removed from the busy social hubs of Second Life.
Enduring Legacy and Cultural Impact
Svarga’s legacy is one of enduring creativity and innovation. It showcased the power of SL not only as a social platform but also as a space for exploration, discovery, and creation. The island has inspired countless creators over the years, proving that, with imagination, even the most basic building blocks can create something magical.
As one of the earliest experiments with artificial life in SL, it paved the way for more ambitious projects. The combination of an evolving ecosystem, mythological storytelling, and immersive design made Svarga a destination that many still speak of with reverence. The island's preservation by Linden Lab further underscores its importance.
A Timeless Destination
Nearly two decades after its creation, Svarga remains an essential stop for both newcomers and long-time residents. Whether you're climbing the central tower for breathtaking views, watching bees flit from flower to flower, or simply relaxing in its quiet gardens, it offers a unique experience that blends art, nature, and myth.
As you explore this virtual wonderland, it’s easy to see why Philip Linden felt it encapsulated his vision. Svarga represents not just what SL was in its early days, but what it still has the potential to be—a world where imagination and creativity can come to life, unrestricted by the limitations of the physical world.
For those who seek a deeper connection with SL’s roots, or simply want to enjoy an immersive, otherworldly experience, Svarga stands as a testament to the power of virtual worlds to inspire, amaze, and endure.
It is a must-visit destination. It will leave an indelible mark on your experience, reminding us all of the boundless creativity SL offers.
Article and photography by Liberty Fairelander
ART AND ADVENTURE UNVEILED: THE GRAND OPENING OF THE LAND OF SLEEPING GIANTS
Last weekend, SL's art scene saw a new opening as artist AmandaT Tamatzui unveiled her breathtaking new region, the Land of Sleeping Giants. The grand opening party perfectly blended art, exploration, and community spirit. It celebrated the realisation of Amanda’s vision; turning her dream of an immersive artistic space into reality.
A Dream Realized: AmandaT's Vision
The Land of Sleeping Giants is far more than a gallery—it’s an experience. Amanda, already known for her thought-provoking art, has crafted a space where sculptures and installations merge with nature, drawing visitors into a vibrant world of creativity. The result is a region where every corner invites exploration, evoking curiosity and reflection.
This endeavour was made possible by Amanda’s friend Her Excellency Rascal Starlight, the Honorary Bellisserian Ambassador to Zindra & Horizons, who donated the region, and builder Boo Rojyo, who helped bring her vision to life. To add to the opening festivities, Amanda and I collaborated on a custom scavenger hunt, offering visitors an interactive journey through the landscape as they admire the stunning art.
A Party to Remember
The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as avatars arrived, greeted by mesmerising art installations set against a natural backdrop. The sense of camaraderie was palpable as guests complimented the art, shared jokes, and revelled in the moment. DJ Frank Atisso, a well-known figure himself in SL's art community, provided the music.
A particularly humorous highlight came from Sandy Burgess who, in a giant avatar, jokingly fretted about accidentally squashing fellow partygoers. Amanda playfully suggested a group photo with Sandy towering over everyone, but the logistics made that too difficult.
Gonzo Tigerfish posed the question: If you could have one thing from SL in real life, what would it be? and responses ranged from teleportation (the clear favourite!) to customisable body sculpting. The banter that followed led to a lighthearted exploration of the fantastical and the absurd, as everyone imagined the impact of SL features in reality.
Haka Dance, Art, and Laughter
New Zealand pride infused the event, sparked by mentions of the country's successes in sailing and rugby. Amanda chimed in about her hometown of Auckland, the city of sails.
Kavi Tigerfish said a Maori blessing before the Haka dance, though there had already been some impromptu performances as any mention of the word triggered the animations that were being passed out to all present. It took a little bit of organising to get everyone to detach the animations until after the blessing!
Sativa and Inaia, who are both Maori, then joined the party and Sativa said the necessary words to start a second Haka. Sativa also told us a little about the history and purpose of the dance As avatars synchronised their haka animations, laughter filled the air, underscoring the unifying power of virtual dance.
At the heart of the event was Amanda’s enchanting region – a realm where art and adventure coexist. Guests who ventured beyond the party were rewarded with hidden sculptures, intricate builds, and artistic installations tucked into every crevice. The seamless blending of nature and art provided a deeply immersive experience, drawing people to explore the farthest corners of the land.
Art, Community, and Creativity
As the night wound down and the haka dance faded, it was clear that AmandaT's vision had struck a chord with all who attended. The grand opening showcased more than just art; it was a celebration of community, creativity, and the collaborative spirit that defines Second Life®.
Event Stamps and the Hunt for Adventure
For the adventurers in the crowd, the grand opening held even more excitement. Scattered throughout the region were special event stamps, hidden in various corners. Collecting them became a favourite activity, adding an extra layer of challenge and engagement.
Equally enticing was the grand opening scavenger hunt, where guests embarked on a quest to uncover clues and treasures throughout the stunning landscape. From hidden pathways to surprising art pieces, the hunt was not only a tribute to Amanda's creativity but also an invitation for residents to immerse themselves more deeply in the experience.
For those who couldn’t make it to the grand opening, the Land of Sleeping Giants remains open for all to explore. Whether you’re an art lover, a curious wanderer, or simply looking for a serene spot to relax, Amanda’s region offers a unique escape into a world of imagination and discovery. Get ready to unleash your sense of adventure and uncover the wonders of the sleeping giants.
Article and photography by Liberty Fairelander
EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
If you have one of our stamp terminals and you're having an event or would like to make an announcement, just let us know and we'll be happy to feature it here. Please drop a notecard on the Editor, Dave (Lord.Junibalya) in-world or use the Email the Editor link in the sidebar to send us your information, posters and/or photos. |
Hammieween V Stamp – the winners
The first users (apart from BBB bureaucrats and Bellisseria Hammies) to collect our 1,000th stamp design were:
1. KAL (kalecto) on Oct. 19th at 10:53 CEST
2. daisywish on Oct. 19th at 14:12 CEST, and
3. Scarlett Amethyst on Oct. 19th at 14:35 CEST
Congratulations!
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Passport #1500 issued this week
We are proud to announce the passing of another milestone in the history of our light-hearted Second Life® bureaucracy. This week, Bellisserian passport BE-600000722, issued to resident Rumi Shen, was the 1,500th passport to be issued since our records began.
The early versions of our passports were hand-crafted and unlinked to any central database, so we can only provide statistics for passports from V3.00 onwards. However, most of the older passports have now been updated so this is a pretty good indication of the number in use.
NEW LOCATIONS
It's spook season still. Step beyond the ordinary and into the realm of Second Death, where shadows dance, and the air is thick with mystery. Prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with chills, thrills, and haunting surprises. You’ll want someone to hold onto as you navigate the haunted passages that may stir more than just your imagination. This hauntingly immersive event runs through November 2nd. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the most bone-chilling experience.
All Souls Day in Bellisseria finds all kinds of odd creatures and lost souls temporarily in residence! Brave the force fields to find a special scroll for the event prize and other gifts at this and other locations in the SL Public Land Preserve in the Letter of Transit Quest.
The wonderfully-named region Whatsup Dock in Bellisseria is home to Lisa's Little Houseboat Bar - A cosy little waterside spot for friends to gather and chat. There are free drinks and food for all! We love Bellisseria's faux businesses, where residents kindly share their private Linden Homes on a non-commercial basis (in compliance with the Bellisseria Covenant) just to make the Linden Continent more fun for everybody.
The Magnolia Café and The Tamarind Gardens are the latest locations at AmandaT Tamatzui's Land of Sleeping Giants region wide art installation to offer passport stamps.
The Bellisserian Discussion Club is another private Linden Home given up to community purposes by its generous owner. It was founded in the aptly-named Woods Talk region to encourage open discussion of the issues of the day in the virtual world. All are welcome from anywhere in SL. There is no dress code so come as you are. Refreshments are provided but you are encouraged to bring a dish to share. Come meet your neighbours and fellow residents!
The Club's Grand Opening will be on 3rd November 2024 at 4pm SLT and a colourful event stamp will be available for that.
2nd Death GV Event: Ends November 2nd |
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Event: Halloween Season |
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Lisa's Little Houseboat Bar BE | ||
Magnolia Cafe - Land of Sleeping Giants PE Event: Art installation 2024 |
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Tamarind Gardens - Land of Sleeping Giants PE Event: Art installation 2024 |
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Bellisserian Discussion Club BE
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Bellisserian Discussion Club Grand Opening BE Event: 3rd November 2024 |
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