Sunday, September 25, 2011

Falling Down the Rabbit Hole

Alice in Wonderland in the Rabbit Hole
It feels like I've fallen down the rabbit hole.... I feel disoriented, alone, and often confused. What I thought I knew is not what I know now....

Since I already have a graduate degree in another discipline, I'm surprised at how disoriented I feel in the Master of Arts, Fashion program. I thought I knew a lot about fashion history but what I've discovered is that I know a lot less than I thought I did. Fashion theory seems to be deeply rooted in sociology theory but also encompasses a range of other disciplines from philosophy, history, visual culture and economics - which translates into a lot of reading! Besides that, as a mature student, the logistics of going to university are a lot different that it was the first time, especially since this time I have a family and an elderly mother to care for. Add to that a perfectionist streak and there are moments when I'm a little bit overwhelmed. More than once, I've asked myself "What have I done?"

I'm sure that in due course I'll get used to this different rhythm and figure out how to make time for friends, for my art practice, for blogging, for my life.... In the meantime, I've got reading to do!

Picture credit: http://www.victorianweb.org/art/illustration/tenniel/alice/2.2.html

14 comments:

Fashion, Art and other fancies said...

As artists we all feel this way at the best of times. Find the green country and inhale inspiration.
It does wonders for the senses.
It seems you have quite a bit on your plate now. Your blogfriends are thinking of you. xx

Kaerie Faerie said...

take a deep breath you will be fine
sometimes reorganizing our time is hard, but all the wonderful things you will learn, will make it all worth while in the end.

Jo said...

I know the feeling. I often loose sleep wondering what I was thinking when I decided to pursue a graduate degree. Then I look at the clock, see it's 4:30AM and realize I can get a couple hours reading in before I have to run to work or class. By the end of the semester you'll be amazed at how much you can juggle. Just keep reading/writing/sketching/sewing. You can do it!

Annie Starr said...

Ah Ingrid, I am sure that half the achievement of the program will be finding the balance between real life and master-student life. Not an easy one to juggle I am sure, but in the meantime I wish for you a place at the Mad Hatters Tea Party so that you can enjoy all that is 'down the hole.'

Von said...

The joy of a challenge!!!! Good luck an dgood wishes! The sociology of fashion...excellent!!!

Gina said...

Oh dear... I start my MA tomorrow and I'm already wondering how I will fit everything in. Perhaps we should offer each other moral support.

Susan Elliott said...

Hang in there Ingrid. You'll figure it out. Sometimes what we're supposed to be learning from new experiences isn't necessarily the obvious stuff like the school work.

I believe in you.

John Frantsen said...

Thanks for your comment Ingrid ;o) Keep up the spirit. It takes some time to get back into that rhythm again...

elena maria vidal said...

I felt the same way while getting my MA but it was all worth it. The difficult time goes by very fast but the credentials you will have for the rest of your life.

Celina said...

Hang in there Ingrid! One day at a time! Seems old advice, but it truly works. Though, you may find yourself lost, just remember this is a learning experience and an opportunity to embrace the challenges! You’ll be so proud once it’s all accomplished!

Laura said...

I'm really glad you've reinstated your comments function, Ingrid. glad to be able to add my two pence to the conversation. :)

I know we've already discussed this post subject, but I want you to know I'm thinking of you and willing you on. It's a juggling act to be sure, but as Celina says above - one day at a time. It's all you can do. I have every faith in you!

DolceDreams said...

You will do it! Breathe deep and channel on! You are an inspiration to many!
Nathalie

Olga said...

This post astounds me, because, with a difference of one day, you and I have expressed the same sentiment. It gives me shivers :)

sallymandy said...

I'm excited that you've decided to go back to school. I am also considering doing this next fall. Your report gives me courage.