We never are what we intend or invent.

So, in an unforseen--almost accidental--spontaneous bout of being myself, I was perusing the website of my foreign institution of higher learning (Koninklijke Academie van Beeldende Kunsten), specifically the ArtScience department mumbo jumbo, when I found the introductory course & research group descriptions for the whole year. What luck this holds since it's first semester of this year I was hoping to read about. Upon a quick perusal, I knew exactly what I wanted to take.

And then I realized that it was last year's course descriptions I was looking at. In a typical fashion, the program has changed as I've arrived, but it still sounds amazing (and so me). So now I will post what little I do know. I have to pick two of these five groups (or maybe it's one per semester, I don't know):

• RecPlay
  This studiolab is an extension of the RecPLay group that has existed since 2001. It will deal with subjects such as audiovisual improvisation, improvised electronic music, real-time visuals and freestyle video, and the practical focus will be on developing hardware- and software instruments and ensemble playing. The labcoach of RecPlay is Robert Pravda, complemented by Kasper van der Horst.
• AdLib
  This studiolab is an extension of the existing AdLib performance group. Its focus is theatrical performance in which the body, light, sound and projections are used as instruments. Practical work includes body training, work with light and sound on stage and developing performances. The labcoach of AdLib is Michiel Pijpe.
• Spatial Interaction Lab
  This lab is a new form for the subjects that were earlier adressed in the 'Audiovisual Interfaces', 'Interactive Sonic Spaces' and other research groups. It deals with composing interactions by way of audiovisual interfaces, interactive spaces, robotics, physical computing, extra senses and interactive architecture. Its practical focus will be on hardware controllers, sensors, actuators and spatial use of sound and light. The labcoach of the Spatial Interaction Lab is Edwin van der Heide.
• Audiovisual Composition Lab
  This is a new lab dealing with multichannel audiovisual composition, montage, animation, visualization, generative composition and generative art. Its practical focus will be on HD and multichannel editing, animation and generative software. The labcoach of the Audiovisual Composition Lab will be Kasper van der Horst, complemented by Joost Rekveld.
• Tactile Research Lab
  This is a new lab,dealing with wearables, inflatables and new, active and responsive materials. Its practical focus will be on the skills that are necessary to make physical environments out of light-weight materials. The labcoach of the Tactile Research Lab is Cocky Eek.

A new country, a new city, and a year to recall while making new memories.

A year is a long time to wait before you see the smile on your friends' faces in person again.
Barcelona, España