Audra Linsner

Assignment 2

VR Storytelling

Idea: Shooting a 360-degree experience of the Civil War re-enactments + other displays of historical interest at the Clay Historic Associations Annual Fall Festival.

Experience: This could be an interesting project for history buffs or anyone who isn’t physically able to access the park for a historical re-enactment. While this video wouldn’t inherently be political, I also think it is timely given the fact that a lot of people in our country have forgotten that the Civil War was a war fought because of slavery, which is why statues “honoring” Confederate soldiers should be taken down everywhere (not just in the South!). Re-enactments like this are important to remember our nation’s history (one that was founded on the exploitation of slaves) and honor the people who fought against racism in our country.

I think it will feel like a live-action museum for someone to be in this particular place. Because there are other historical displays at the park, this will add to this experience. Some people may not want to experience this particular type of event because there might be fake gunshots – I’ll have to check. Or war re-enactments might trigger PTSD of some kind, I’m not entirely sure but it’s good to be cautious.

Location: Clay Historical Park, Clay, NY; September 16, 11 AM – 3 PM

Scene: An outdoor park park

• Large, open space
• Objects (humans) relatively close to camera
• Lots of movement
• Movement close to camera
• Camera at average height

Lighting:

• Daylight, outside

Audio:

• Tascam audio recorder

Story Discovery:

• Subject: Civil War, Non-Fiction (Confederacy vs. Union)
• Description: From 1861-1865, the southern portion of the US seceded and began fighting against the Union (the northern portion) because of slavery. The north was “free” for African Americans and the South was slaveholding. This became an extremely violent and costly war for America (more than WWI, WWII, Vietnam, and Korea combined) . Generals included Robert E. Lee for the Confederacy and Ulysses S. Grant for the Union.
• What problem is the subject trying to solve: Preserving History
• Audiovisual anchors: Actors, most likely.
• Why is it important: Learning your country’s history is important so we don’t repeat it. Experiencing it live is more engaging.
• It will allow recipients to understand history further than a textbook would allow them to.

Where is my head:

• I think it makes the most sense to make the camera at eye-level with the actors, so it feels like you’re actually watching the re-enactment – perhaps they would be WITH the “soldiers” so it’s more impactful
• The experiencer is standing
• Depending on the set up of the actors, it would be cool to have the camera in between them. I’m not sure how I would secure it in the grass, though
• No reason for me to be in it, I don’t think

Other ideas:

• Syracuse’s City Market

“Founded in 2014, the City Market has become a staple attraction in downtown Syracuse.  Starting in May and running through October, every second Sunday of the month is where vendors from all over the region can be found.  Ceramics, vintage clothing, furniture, home decor, handmade crafts and antiques are just the tip of the iceberg as to the items available.  Take a look at their website and see some of the items and vendors found at City Market.” – Visit Syracuse

• Marketing material for Visit Syracuse?

• Apple Orchard in the fall (Beak and Skiff?)