Local scenes,

I am a big fan of regionalism, and as such of local scenes. Regionalism, as I define it, is the opposite of globalization, social globalization especially. Regional scenes allow small cultural trends to grow and develop independently of the larger world. In an era of ever present media and cultural wide shifts in trends and culture, small regional cultural practices can be a pleasant relief.

I have had the opportunity this year to explore a number of smaller cultural scenes, explore their rituals and meet many interesting people through them. It is encouraging to meet other like minded people and to know that human nature and its diversity can thrive in a sea of media sameness.