This week’s activity borrows heavily from the field of social anthropology.
To complete the task of this week (from learning environment Falmouth:
- Identify a community of practitioners that aligns with your interests and aspirations for the future.
- Create an ethnography report, no more than 800 words long, that is based on ‘participation observation.’
Ethnography report
CG_NL is a community of 3D artists, professionals, and enthusiasts based in the Netherlands. The group is active on Facebook and hosts regular meetups and events. From my observations as a member of the group, the user base is divided into three categories: artists, people looking for artists, and people interested in art.
While the group is large, the active user base seems to be small, with artists being the most active members. Many of the artists I observed were students. CG_NL is generally welcoming to newcomers, but the feedback in the group can be harsh, which can be helpful for growth but also requires that artists practice giving constructive feedback.
The group is a valuable resource for staying up to date on the latest topics in 3D and finding opportunities for work and collaboration. Nearly everyone I’ve studied with in the Netherlands is also a member of the group, which suggests that it is a well-respected and valuable community for 3D professionals in the country.
Overall, my experience with CG_NL has been positive and I believe it is a great place for 3D artists to gather feedback, find inspiration, and connect with others in the field. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to learn about this community and others like it during my studies.
Reflection
Writing this ethnography report allowed me to reflect on my experiences as a member of the CG_NL community and to gain a deeper understanding of the group’s dynamics and culture. Through my observations and interactions with other members, I was able to identify key characteristics of the group, such as the active user base being largely comprised of artists and the prevalence of harsh but constructive feedback.
In reflecting on my involvement with CG_NL, I realized the value of communities like this for connecting with others in the 3D industry and staying up to date on the latest topics and opportunities. I also recognized the importance of giving and receiving feedback, both for personal growth and for building a supportive and collaborative community.
Overall, the process of writing this report allowed me to consider my own experiences within the context of the larger group, and to think critically about the strengths and challenges of the community. It was a valuable exercise in understanding and articulating the culture and dynamics of a specific community, and I believe it will be useful for me in future research and professional endeavors.