The Steampunk Tribune

The Garden of Dreams - The Airship

2012-01-26T20:30:00.000-05:00

Came across this nicely done production, highlighting the Garden of Dreams in SL. Quite a spectacular destination, and an airship voyage is always in order - do enjoy!

Steampunk Reviews - Episode # 32, A Review of "Flaming Zeppelins "... and her new blog!

2012-01-24T06:16:00.000-05:00

Miss Yankee999 reviews the literary work "Flaming Zeppelins", by by Mr. Joe Lansdale, and introduces her new blog, "Definition of a Lady" (link will be forthcoming!) - do enjoy!

The Tea Girls - a public exhibition!

2012-01-22T11:02:00.000-05:00

My trail regarding the Tea Girls started with a small article on IO9 the other day, titled "Hey Disney, this is the Steampunk princess movie we want!" Needless to say, my own interest was piqued, and seeing the beautiful detail of the artwork by Mr. Brian Kesinger, was that much more of an enticement!

Walkies for Otto, by Mr. Brian Kesinger

Mind you, the art work is stunning, down to the small details to the processing on the paper, along with the very unique Steampunk touches (as above, the young lady taking her pet octopus to hydrant...), and is a treat in itself. However, the title is what really caught my attention. As an older male, I tend to find the Disney Princesses quite bland and boring (I'd safely say I'm not its target audience). I asked my 7 year old niece about it, and she promptly informed me that kind of thing (Disney Princesses) were for little girls ("Barbies were more grown up"...ok, I guess).

Flight, by Mr. Brian Kesinger

Mr. Kesinger's artwork has been seen in numerous places, and as I mentioned earlier, is breathtaking in its detail, simplicity, and genre adherence. However, after seeing his work, to got to thinking, why not a Steampunk girl inventor series? Of all media sources, Disney is the source that brought the cinema production of "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under The Sea" (1954), and other Steampunk stories throughout the years, I would think a Steampunk Princess series is a no-brainer.

Robot, by Mr. Brian Kesinger

To have an intelligent young lady who uses science (albeit, with Steampunk sensibilities), to solve crimes, go on adventures, or do what not, would be a sensible baseline. Compared to some of the animated pap on the small screen, such a story most certainly be a winner, in a niche (Steampunk), that I don't think that any other animation series has broached. (Yes, the Airbender series had some Steampunk elements in it, but as good as that animated series was, it would be safe to say the genre is not the focus of the series.) As Mr. Kesinger is a story artist at Disney at Walt Disney Animation Studios, he would be pretty easy to find, I'd say, and perhaps approach, regarding this?

Garden Tea Party, by Mr. Brian Kesinger

Alas, the machinations of Hollywood (and associated entertainment monoliths) are difficult to divine, but at the very least we have Mr. Kesinger's magnificent Steampunk artwork to enjoy! I would highly recommend following the links to the rest of the good gentleman's work, which if you are fortuante enough to live in Los Angeles, is on display at The Hive gallery, (after you scroll past some other artists' work), at: http://hivegallery.com/2010/news/lullabies-and-nightmares/

... and more works can be found at:
His website: http://bkartonline.com/
His blog: http://willdraw4fun.blogspot.com/
and his Facebook location, at: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Brian-Kesingers-Tea-Girls/212094505475204

... and consider a bit of his artwork for your personal consumption!
Clockwork Couture has prints of works to adorn oneself, at: http://www.clockworkcouture.com/home/brian-kesinger-s-tea-girls.html

... with a few more located at WeLoveFine: http://www.welovefine.com/nby.php?c=2#/inst&id_lang=1&d=9&c=2,3,5,8,9,10&o=n&p=1

Until next time!

The Dorian's Winter Ball is tomorrow!

2012-01-20T20:39:00.002-05:00

Bit of a last minute posting, but if you reside in the fantastic Philadelphia area, do seriously consider a visit to Saturday's Winter Ball! As succinctly put in their press release...

The Chill of winter is here , stay warm with us at Dorian's Parlor Winter Ball

Dress to the nines in Dandy, Steampunk, Neo-Victorian, Neo-Vintage, Black Tie, 18th Century, Victorian, ball gowns, and creative attire, and dance the night away.

Our MC is the one and only G.D Falksen http://www.gdfalksen.com/

Premiering at Dorian’s Parlor for the first time haute couture fashion and accessory design house Head Kandi http://www.head-kandi.com/ . Will tan·ta·lize you with aerial wonders of neo victorian dreams in
our fashion show.

Having you dance the night away like no other can we have for you DJ Kiltboy http://www.djkiltboy.com/

Live music by the amazing Hopeful Machines http://hopefulmachines.net/

Dorian’s Parlor is a sensuous spectacle of vintage glamour shining in the heart of Philadelphia. Housed at the Doubtletree Hotel on the Avenue of the Arts, this event is a haven for artists, bohemians,
socialites and neo-vintage lovers of all stripes and inclinations. The gorgeous event space housing the party features both a grand ballroom and an outdoor patio for a mix of moods and climates.

Each month, Dorian’s Parlor will showcase the best in night life and artistic entertainment. In addition to inspired DJs, the Dorian’s Parlor events will feature live performances by bands, dancers and
countless other talented artists. Be ready to see gorgeous models draped in the finest garments of some of the foremost neo-vintage designers during the fashion shows. And like an exotic bazaar, Dorian’s Parlor will host vendors and craftspeople eager to sell their finest wares to the revelrous crowd.

The door to the parlor is open. Won’t you come in and stay a while?

This is an event worth the travel, as there will be nothing like it elsewhere. Dorian's Parlor is located at the beautiful Doubletree Hotel in Philadelphia right on the corner of Broad and Locust St., 3 blocks south of City Hall. Easily accessible from the Broad Street line and Septa Bus 27 and 32, and a short walk from Suburban Station.

THIS IS A 21+ EVENT

$25 gets you admission, drink ticket, and Hors D'oeuvres

Color portrtaits with Hugh Casey http://www.hughcasey.com/
Have your photo taken with the classic 1900 back drop and by the skilled photographer Hugh Casey. But have them in color with a sharp pro camera lenses. Have the joy of having a free min photo shoot at our event and then latter being able to pick what photos you would like to own from the talented Hugh Casey web site http://www.hughcasey.com/ . Document all that effort put in to looking your best with us with Hugh's incredible photography.

Grab bag of Tea
Also to add thanks you to Yogi Organic Tea http://www.yogiproducts.com/ ,Twinings Tea http://www.twiningsusa.com/ , Stash Tea http://www.stashtea.com/ , Teavana http://www.teavana.com/
and Lipton tea http://www.lipton.com/ at the ticket table when you first come in, we will have a grab bag of tea. In the box will be many individually wrapped tea bags of many different tastes and types from
these companies for you free to take home with you and enjoy. Please, we ask that you only take one per guest as we would like everyone to be able to enjoy their tea on sunday morning. This will only be
available while supplies last.

At random our wonderful ticket booth staff will be giving out prizes and goodies from the following fantastic places:
http://www.steampunktales.com/
http://sweetlibertine.com/
http://www.clockworkcouture.com/
http://www.halloweencostumes.com/
http://www.gildedagerecords.com/
http://steampunkleather.com/
Sherlock Holmes Mystery Magazine
http://www.goodreads.com/series/62171-sherlock-holmes-mystery-magazine
http://www.jlake.com/
http://bethalynnebajema.com/
http://www.manicpanic.com/
http://www.white-wolf.com/
http://www.retroscopefashions.com/
http://www.wildsidepress.com/
http://www.theartofshaving.com/
http://www.trojancondoms.com/
http://www.orbitbooks.net/
http://www.yenpress.com/

Alas, I reside a bit further south, but if you have the opportunity, do take advantage! For more details, please visit the associated Facebook website, at: https://www.facebook.com/events/273719599348843/

Abney Park's "The Wrong Side", from their album "Off The Grid"

2012-01-19T21:00:00.000-05:00

A brief post this evening, but as such, I have a small slice from Abney Park's "Off The Grid" album, titled "The Wrong Side"! If you enjoy it, do consider a visit to their fantastic site, located at: http://abneypark.com/

Please do enjoy!

New Babbage's Fourth Annual Airship Regatta & Founder's Day Soot Ball!

2012-01-17T21:02:00.000-05:00

This coming weekend has plenty of events in the City-State of New Babbage! Starting with the Fourth Airship Regatta, which begins at 2pm, SLT, with four classes of machines competing for bragging rights of being the superlative champion of New Babbage's Skyways! For further information, please visit the New Babbage website, at: http://cityofnewbabbage.com/drupaltest/node/4623

Followed thereafter with the Fourth Annual Founder's Day Black and White Soot Ball, from 6pm to 9pm, SLT! As the most stunning series of events in the Steamlands, do consider paying a visit, and to learn more, please do return to the New Babbage homepage entry, at: http://cityofnewbabbage.com/drupaltest/node/4624.. and please do enjoy!

Steampunk Trailers - Journey 2: The Mysterious Island!

2012-01-15T17:23:00.000-05:00

Another of Jules Verne's classic tales is being updated for the modern day! "Journey 2: The Mysterious Island', is a remake of Mr. Verne's second book following 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea. Not as popular as the classic, but actually a very good yarn, telling the ultimate fate of Captain Nemo, and the Nautilus' crew. Slated to open on February 10, 2012, it looks to be quite a yarn!

There are websites available to keep track of the production, such as...

Their main website: http://www.themysteriousisland.com/ (which includes a sweepstakes for a trip to the premiere...)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julesvernesmysteriousisland

...and of course, one can indulge in the original until the release of the updated production, by paying a visit

http://www.manybooks.net/titles/vernejuletext98milnd11.html

The CSN Hunley is exposed!

2012-01-13T20:42:00.000-05:00

Computer generated image of the CSN Hunley

As I was reading the news today, I was pleasantly surprised to learn the CSN Hunley, which is undergoing repairs and restoration, had the bulk of its scaffolding removed, thus exposing this magnificent specimen of nautical innovation to the general public!

video platform video management video solutions video player

ABC News brief on the CSN Hunley, in its drydock

Aside from being a previous submariner (piquing my interest), the Hunley was innovative in many of the submarine architecture aspects (such as the use of ballast tanks for submerging), as well and establishing a new paradigm in naval combat (until the Hunley, it was understood that larger vessels always sunk smaller ones... but after the sinking of the USS Housatonic just outside Charleston harbor, navies around the world had to give pause to the emerging threat of submersibles)!

Naval Historical photo of an artist's rendition of the CSN Hunley

The Steampunk era's amazing inventions were rooted in real world ideas... some of which were the seed for the speculative fiction which would influence the future (yes, the Nautilus... which was the inspiration of the USS Nautilus... which eventually led to the US Trident fleet)! To read more about this bit of naval history, and its slow reconstruction, please visit...

http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/a-clearer-view-steel-truss-surrounding-confederate-submarine-hl-hunley-will-be-removed/2012/01/12/gIQAYYn1sP_story.html?tid=pm_national_pop

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/4668446/ns/msnbc_tv-national_geographic_ultimate_explorer/t/forensic-case-hunley/#.TxDY7G-0y8A

http://www.aikenstandard.com/story/m1056-BC-SC-ConfederateSubmar-1stLd-Writethru-01-10-0532

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-201_162-57358869/world-gets-better-view-of-civil-war-submarine/

...and for a bit more background information on the CSN Hunley, please visit...

http://www.history.navy.mil/branches/org12-3.htm

http://www.hunley.org/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/H._L._Hunley_(submarine)

The Semi-Finalists of the Neo-Victoria Photo Contest!

2012-01-11T22:04:00.000-05:00

"Panoramic for October, by Ms. Selena Alexandre

The next round in the Neo-Victoria photography compeition is underway, and runs until the 18th of January! To see all the images in round of fifteen, please follow this link: http://neovictoria.ning.com/events/event/show?id=4710053%3AEvent%3A36632&xg_source=msg_invite_event ... and if you're not a member of the Neo-Victoria Ning, do take the opportunity and join!

Mechanics for Dreames - a spectacular performance!

2012-01-09T20:44:00.000-05:00

Received a small message from some exceptionally talented individials from Italy, who in their words...

A history of construction of mechanical and analogic machines, sound-producing and wonder-awakening.
All our machines are ingeniously and creatively refurbished from spare parts material derived from industrial processes.
Our lab gave birth to both l'Océan and Esperimento Pirofonia musical machines.
Within the last 10 years, we've designed, developed and built machines working with water, air and fire: those machines are the performance core along with bass guitar, mixer and computer effects.
Rumours, sounds and melodies erupt from the primeval volcano as well as the industrial world.. our performances are an impressive mix of motion acting and sound, surely satisfying every audience.

They have crafted this amazing ensamble of unique items, which allow them to produce, well... you'll simply have to watch for yourself!

To learn more about Mechanics for Dreames, visit their homesite, Tana Creatures, at:

http://www.tana-creatures.it/, and do prepare to be amazed!

El Investigador, # 11, is out!

2012-01-08T09:24:00.000-05:00

The superlative and extensive Spanish Steampunk magazine, El Investigador, has released its eleventh issue! Granted, it is in Spanish, so it may be a bit of a challenge for some to indulge in, but if you are able to work a translation tool (or perhaps read Spanish), it is yet another excellent work on their part, and I would highly recommend at the very least passing an eye over it! For further details, please visit their Issue site, at: http://issuu.com/angeldebiblioteca/docs/el-investigador-11

City of Steam, an Industrial Fantasy MMO

2012-01-06T20:43:00.000-05:00

When I caught sight of this amazing video, I decided to take a quick peek at this endeavor! City of Steam is a MMO set in what is not *exactly* a Steampunk environment, but certainly has plenty of Steampunk touchstones (as one can see from the majestic aero-battleships in the video). Alas, to my best estimations, the game will be open to a closed alpha test at some point in March, but to keep abreast of City of Steam's status, please consider a visit to their homepage, located at: http://www.cityofsteam.com/, and perhaps a visit to their forums, located at: http://forum.cityofsteam.com/

For more impressions regarding City of Steam, please visit...

http://www.thesteampunkempire.com/forum/topics/city-of-steam-mmorpg

http://www.mmorpg.ch/photo/c212050c-3380-468a-b294-1f50e4cef8b7

http://www.dotmmo.com/city-of-steam-3527.html

Steampunk Video - Les Ailes du Cirque

2012-01-04T20:12:00.000-05:00

Les Ailes du Cirque from Benjamin Bartholet on Vimeo.

A bit pressed due to RL issues, but I did want to post this unique video, titled Les Ailes du Cirque (The Wings of the Circus)... a very clever small endeavor by a Mr. B. Bartholet, which caught my attention not only for its simplicity, but for the eye-catching work - please do enjoy!

Abney Park's new novel is available for acquisition!

2012-01-02T08:12:00.000-05:00

Received word yesterday afternoon that Abney Park's novelization of their exploits, consolidated in a compendium titled "The Wrath of Fate" is now available! Based on their description, I understand that the work further explores the relationship between their musical endeavor and their background, so to pass an eye yourself of the newly released work, please visit: http://www.abneypark.com/market/

Happy New Year and Best Wishes for 2012... and the "Official" opening of the Steampunk Facebook Pages!

2012-01-01T13:35:00.002-05:00

My good friend, Miss Laura G.M., who has discovered the joys of Steampunk!

Its amazing what and who one encounters on Facebook - I stumbled across an old friend from years ago, who to my pleasant surprise, is a new Steampunk follower! Kudos, Madam!

As a bit of a ham-fisted segue to the next entry, the Steampunk Facebook Pages are "officially" open, with the addition of the following locations and individuals!....

Dorian's Parlor - (in beautiful Philadelphia, as it has been pointed out by a few individuals to my embarrassment!)
The Edison - (In sunny LA, on the left coast)
Ms. Evelyn Kriete, a renowned source of knowledge on Steampunk fashion
Mr. Michel Vaillancourt, author of the Sauder Diaries
Steampunk Kindle, an outstanding source for Steampunk on your portable device
Hungarian Steampunks, all the way from beautiful Eastern Europe
Clockworker-Steampunk, the authoritative German Steampunk site
Escape the Clouds, an excellent Steampunk musical group
Emperor Norton's Stationary Marching Band, one of my personal favorite group of musicians
Beats Antique, with amazing Steampunk and cross-genre works
and Mr. Clay Griffith, of the Vampire Empire series (as mentioned at the Steampunk Scholar)!

If you have a Steampunk location, business, musical group, or written work you would like to see on the Steampunk Facebook Pages, simply leave a comment, and I'll endeavor to add it on the next update of pages. The same with any corrections - I'm far from perfect, but I will strive not to let my keyboard bounce affect one's name or endeavor! On that note, please have a Happy New Year, and Best Wishes as well!

The Melancholy Romantic - an outstanding new Steampunk location!

2011-12-31T09:43:00.000-05:00

As the last entry for 2011, I was looking for something which I could say would end the year with a "bang"... and did so in a roundabout way! While seeking further information on yesterday's entry, I stumbled across the Melancholy Romantic... perhaps the most intriguing Steampunk / Neo-Victorian website I have seen. With cross-functionality covering a wide variety of Steampunk issues of note (e.g. music, literature, conventions, and more), the Melancholy Romantic is painfully beautiful, so I do hearty recommend a visit to the locale! I am in the process of adding it to the Steampunk Tribune's trifecta links, and to see for yourself, please visit: http://melancholyromantic.com/

Steampunk Video - OneOff Steampunk

2011-12-30T16:41:00.000-05:00

OneOff Steampunk from Alessandro Conforti on Vimeo.

A bit of eye candy by a Mr. A. Conforti - a video highlighting some excellent work in assciation with Steampunk. Alas, I have been unable to find more information regarding this endeavor, but please do enjoy!

The Clockwork Dolls - The Complete Instrumental Collection... and outstanding free download!

2011-12-29T15:57:00.000-05:00

The Clockwork Dolls provided an excellent Christmas present to Steampunk music lovers - a compilation of their complete instrumental collection - and it is gratis! Literally, follow this link and download it now - I have it playing as we speak, and it has rocketed as one of my favorite Steampunk albums of this year (next year)? All I can say is "thank you" to the Clockwork Dolls, and make it a point of acquiring their previous works! Again, the link for the album is: http://theclockworkdolls1.bandcamp.com/album/the-complete-instrumental-collection - and please do enjoy!

The Dorian's Parlor New Year's Eve Spectacular!

2011-12-28T18:43:00.001-05:00

Received word about yet another outstanding event taking place in the beautiful metropolis of Philadelphia! Dorian's Parlor, on December 31st, (of 2011, of course), will be hosting a cacophony of Steampunk luminaries as they welcome in the New Year! Said performers included Professor Elemental, The Wandering Cellist, an open bar, a full buffet dinner, VIP gift bags, superlative vendors, and much, much more!

One of the lovely attendees, one can hope!

For more information, please pay a visit to the Dorian's Parlor webpage, at: http://doriansparlor.com/, or visit their Facebook locations, at: https://www.facebook.com/events/192395390844765/ and at:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/105548262825275/ .... also do consider a visit to Ms. Evelyn Kriete's web location, one of the masterminds behind the event, at: http://www.jaborwhalky.net/

Last chance to plan for the Difference Engine!

2011-12-27T19:44:00.000-05:00

Just a quick reminder that there is still time to partake of the Difference Engine event if one is able to arrive in beautiful Fort Worth by the 30th of December, this upcoming Friday! As stated on the December 19th entry...

Received word from my good friend, Mr. Ramon del Mar, that the plans for an incredible end-of-year event is a "go"! As he succinctly describes it on his blog, The Art of Steampunk...

On December 30th in north Central Fort Worth there will be a really new and different type of entertainment for the metroplex! The “Difference Engine“ will immerse you in the creative world of the retro-futuristic imagination. This is something called “Steampunk“, a blending of science fiction and old world charm, elegance, and adventure from the 19th century.

For more details regarding the last Steampunk Event of 2011, and the first of 2012, please pass an eye at the full narrative, at:

http://www.steampunktribune.com/2011/12/difference-engine-steampunk-convention.html

A Monster in Paris...

2011-12-26T16:47:00.000-05:00

Found a family-friendly, Steampunk-influenced movie with airships, inventors, and a entertainer who happens to be a giant, mutated flea! It opened, apparently to little fanfare, earlier this fall, and I'm on the watch for it, in case it comes out on DVD, for the younger minions on my "Three Kings Day" list (one more excuse to provide presents)! If anyone happens to have further information regarding this clever work, please do feel free to leave a comment!

Merry Christmas wishes from the Steampunk Tribune!

2011-12-24T16:59:00.000-05:00

Steampunk Santa, by ~M-Skirvin

Just a brief note to wish all those who take time to stop by the Steampunk Tribune a Steamy and Merry Christmas!

Steampunk Jingle Bells by Abney Park

2011-12-24T00:44:00.000-05:00

Came across a very nice holiday gift from Abney Park! Do enjoy the video, then perhaps consider a Christmas download from their outstanding website, located at: http://www.abneypark.com/ ... and please have a Happy Christmas Eve!

The Steampunk Facebook Pages...

2011-12-22T20:26:00.000-05:00

Although the Steampunk Facebook links have been a popular addition to the Steampunk Tribune, its a bit of a chore for those interested in finding it, as its buried far down the sidebar of the blog. So, as a bit of a project, I revamped a previous blog into a central area for Steampunk Facebook links... and very unimaginatively called it the "Steampunk Facebook Pages". Its still undergoing a few updates and a bit of polishing, but with a bit of time off in the near future, I do expect to have it done.

I realize that there are a still a number of people who have requests for an add, or perhaps wish to be added, so to ensure one's Facebook link is listed, you can either...
a) Leave a comment, with your Facebook address, and I will post it... or...
b) Send an email regarding "Facebook" in the leader line, and I will post it.

(As such, I'll be removing the Steampunk Links on the main page by the end of the month, along with the dedicated header page, as I don't really think its doing the job very well.)

Additionally, I'll be removing the ETSY pages from the Steampunk Tribune, as I haven't really updated them as I had anticipated, so I don't believe its been as helpful as I had hoped But... there is a link on the left side of the Steampunk Facebook Pages for merchants, so if your endeavor has a Facebook Link, I'll be happy to post it!

(Once more, this work is still in the process of being updated, so please do be patient!)

The blog address is: http://steampunkfacebook.blogspot.com/, so do feel free to stop by if this catches your fancy!

The Victorian Hugos...

2011-12-20T20:23:00.002-05:00

Mr. Jess Nevins has been running a small project over the past while, where they nominate works which, had the Hugos been around, would have been in contention. Starting with the year 1885, they are currently at 1889, and seem to be progressing quite nicely through the Steampunk era! To take a peek at the selections (and "winners", do consider a trip IO9 for a peek, by year..

1885 - http://io9.com/5851505/the-victorian-hugos-1885?tag=victorianhugos
1886 - http://io9.com/5855784/the-victorian-hugos-1886?tag=victorianhugos
1887 - http://io9.com/5860335/the-victorian-hugos-1887?tag=victorianhugos
1888 - http://io9.com/5863988/the-victorian-hugos-1888?tag=victorianhugos
1889 - http://io9.com/5868942/the-victorian-hugos-1889?tag=victorianhugos

The Difference Engine Steampunk Convention & New Year's Eve Ball...

2011-12-19T15:01:00.000-05:00

Received word from my good friend, Mr. Ramon del Mar, that the plans for an incredible end-of-year event is a "go"! As he succinctly describes it on his blog, The Art of Steampunk...

There have been other Steampunk events and conventions, but this will be the first to present a fully interactive and all “Steampunk” Murder Mystery Theatre LARP event! From midnight through 3:00 am Steampunk Detectives, adventurers, vampires, and sneaky but ruthless killers will go head to head.

During this 3 day convention you will also be entertained by performers offering music, comedy, and dancing on the main stage. Cosplay Performers such as Airship Isabella and Kali’s Hourglass will be there interacting with the crowd fully in character. All performances, the Steampunk Fashion show and the Steampunk Costume Contest (voted on by the attendees) will all be presented by our charming and entertaining MC Peter Pixie.

You will also be enlightened by panels on a variety of topics related to Steampunk fiction in conventions, literature, drama, and the arts. There will be a large vendors area, a gaming room, photography in Steampunk Attire, and many other items for your amusement.

On New Year's Eve, there will also be a short formal Waltz with Victorian style introduction of any attendees that wish to receive this red carpet treatment. Masquerade masks and slightly more elaborate attire is encouraged, but not required at both this and the midnight ball!

Right after that will be performances from Captain Madd, then Darwin Prophet and the Chronus Mirror, and finally the headline musical act, our own world famous Marquis of Vaudville who will play until midnight! After the midnight festivities, we will have a dance to Darkwave Music!

The entire three day convention pass is only $40.00 and the New Year’s Eve Ball including the three band Saturday night concert and Darkwave dance is only $15.00. This is indeed a lot of entertainment for the paltry sum of $55.00

For more details on the fictional back story that is woven throughout this event and includes the colorful characters in the photo above go to: Art of Steampunk Blog on blogspot under:

Newly Discovered Film Suggests Ada Lovelace May Not Have Died of Natural Causes

To learn more about this upcoming event, please consider a visit to the Difference Engine's home page, at: http://www.the-difference-engine.info/

The Neo-Victoria Photo Contest is in full swing!...

2011-12-18T17:12:00.000-05:00

Received word earlier today of an excellent opportunity for budding (and experienced) Steampunk photographers, especially for those who wish to display their talents on a large canvas. Neo-Victorian, in conjunction with Koinup.com, is sponsoring a Steampunk photography contest, specifically...

The team behind NeoVictoria, the well-known Second Life® roleplaying simulation, is running a photo contest. Participants submit photos that represent the spirit of this amazing steampunk community and submit them to The NeoVictoria Project group on Koinup. [Koinup is a free social network based on user-generated content, with a focus on virtual worlds.]

The Prizes:

~ 1st Place - $5000 Linden dollars™

~ 2nd Place - $3000 Linden dollars™

~ 3rd Place - $2000 Linden dollars™

~ 4rd Place - $1000 Linden dollars™

~ 5th Place through 12thPlace – $250 Linden dollars™ each

In addition to the prize money, winners will be featured on the NeoVictoria website (http://www.neovictoria.net) and in the calendar. The complete rules are here... http://www.koinup.com/group/neovictoria/discuss/neovictoria-photo-contest-for-2012-calendar/14039/

If you are up to the challenge, do take advantage of the opportunity, and start taking your photos!

Steampunk Merchants: Chrononaut Mercantile

2011-12-17T09:37:00.000-05:00

With the Christmas season quickly approaching, ideas for outstanding Steampunk items are essential from quality purveyors... and one such merchant with exquisite Steampunk items is a long-time sponsor of the Steampunk Tribune, namely Chrononaut Mercantile!

Steampunk Goggles

Taking a trip to Chrononaut Mercantile is always a tempting pleasure, as they have a plenitude of items which easily attract the eye, including iconic Steampunk gifts, such as a stunning pair of goggles (as pictured above)...

... and attire, such as the Adventure's Vest (shown above). I do happen to have a penchant for this particular work, as I am quite impressed with the impressive attention to detail show in the small accents (such as the buttoning and trim), so I think it would be safe to say that its is quite a gem, for the lucky fellow (or lady) who is fortunate enough to find this under the tree next weekend!...

Steampunk Belt Buckle, in Antique Copper

Which of course leads to the imporatnt fact - one shopping week (as of this posting), so do expidite your purchase! To take a longer look at their impressive seleciton, please consider a visit to their webiste, at: http://www.chrononautmercantile.com/

Or their ETSY shop, at: http://www.etsy.com/shop/chrononautmercantile

Sherlock Holmes II is finally out!

2011-12-16T21:20:00.000-05:00

After surviving the recent low of Steampunk (yes, the oft mentioned, and quite painful to watch Justin Bieber "Steampunk" video"), a Steampunk gem has re-emerged! Sherlock Holmes II, A Game of Shadows opens this evening, and I felt it was appropriate to give a quick mention to this well received production (or at least by "critical" review). From the list of reviews I have garnered so far, it looks to be outstanding, albeit there seemed to be much hand-wringing about an overly friendly relationship between the two protagonists at IO9. Nonetheless, it is a breath of fresh air to have this Steampunk Christmas treat... and it is the proverbial "out the door", so I can catch the showing this evening!

Do enjoy an interview at the London Premiere, enjoy a few reviews (listed below)... then venture forth and enjoy the production!

The Daily Mail

The Hollywood Reporter

CBS News

New York Daily News

Los Angeles Times

Well... enough reviews - go and see it!

Steampunk Christmas Shopping: The Evolution Store, 2011...

2011-12-15T20:28:00.000-05:00

Well, its Christmas time just around the corner, meaning I am seriously eyeing some of the fantastic goods from a store I do hope to visit in person (someday), the Evolution Store! Although I first blogged about it "way back" in 2009, their amazing array of goods and products is simply fascinating!

Jacklope, mounted

The range of goods covers a wide spectrum - from a "do it yourself" real human skeleton (aka, you have to put together yourself... and its just a hair under 5000 USD), to the clever little Jackalope, which would look fantastic in any gentleman's den (or a lady's den, for that matter)!

Brain Soap - to keep one's mind clean!

On the more affordable end, there is a cacophony of additional goods, including the above "brain soap", mineral book ends, specimen display boxes, a phrenology head, even a Crook's Radiometer! The possibilities are endless, to do consider taking a quick peek at The Evolution Store as there is a week left to treat your favorite Steampunk enthusiast to that special something! For a jaunt, please follow this link....http://theevolutionstore.com/

(and a thank you to my old friend, Mr. S. Dagger, for reminding me I need to go shopping here!)

The Piermont Landing Presents - The 4th Annual Steam Santa and Boiler Elf Ball!

2011-12-13T21:07:00.000-05:00

Its the holiday season in New Babbage, so it must meant that Steam Santa (and Boiler Elf) will be paying a visit, bring coal to the bad children and... even more coal to the good children! As has been the tradition in the City-State since its inception, but this year, there will be an earlier ball as well - the Santa's Helpers Urchin's Ball. Plenty of gifts, music and entertainment for the holiday season is in store!

The Santa's Helpers Urchin's Ball will start on Saturday, the 17th of December, and run from 2 to 4 pm, SLT... and the Fourth Annual Steam Santa and Boiler Elf Ball will start a bit after, from 6 to 9 pm, SLT... so catch one or the other, or better yet, catch both! Be seeing you there!

Steampunk Music: Victor Sierra's Electric Rain

2011-12-11T17:12:00.000-05:00

Sometimes kismet certainly comes into play when one least expect it... as I trudge through my re-re-written future piece, I was contacted by a Mr. B. Eisenstein, one of the very talented musicians from the Steampunk musical group Victor Sierra, regarding their latest work, Electric Rain. As many may know, I can be a bit stodgy with some of my musical selection (up until recently, I was working on a segue between opera and Steampunk), but as I am a curious sort, I took a listen to their recently released album... and I am quite glad I did!

Unlike some recent popular musical productions, Victor Sierra's music attend to the genre in a very well-done manner (yes, I'm referring to the already infamous Justin Bieber video, and a few additional artists with Steampunk placations). Many of the tracks are unique works, but as I beat my keys, my fancy has been subsumed by their rendition of Jefferson Airplane's White Rabbit, which is, as everyone knows, refers to Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, by Mr. L. Carroll. By all means, do take a visit to indulge in their musical works, and I am confident you will pleasantly surprised! For a bit of audio enjoyment, please visit their Bandcamp location, found at: http://victorsierra.bandcamp.com/

"Just glue some gears on it an call it Steampunk"...

2011-12-10T09:43:00.000-05:00

Still working on my small soapbox piece, but as fortune would have it, a longitudinal work came out, which is not only very well done, but quite intriguing... and a bit of an anathema the genre has experienced, with the higher exposure it has had during the past year. Please do enjoy!

Dr. Grordbort's "The Deadliest Game" Trailer...

2011-12-08T20:40:00.000-05:00

Dr Grordbort Presents: The Deadliest Game Trailer from Media Design School on Vimeo.

Well, I was busy working on a diatribe about a particularly disturbing, but expected eventuality with the beloved genre, but as I am not quite finished with it yet, fate handed a bit of a blogger "hall pass", and up popped this beautiful work by Mr. J. Cunningham, and talented students from the Media Design School, about the legendary Steampunk adventurer, Dr. Grordbort! Titled "The Deadliest Game", it is a very well done trailer - and one can only hope the extended work will make its way to realization soon! Please do enjoy!

Consurgo, an outstanding animated short...

2011-12-06T20:36:00.000-05:00

Consurgo from Colorbleed Studios on Vimeo.

Came across this little gem on IO9 the other day - very different from what some consider traditional Steampunk, but the extraordinary job Colorbleed studios did on this piece is very impressive, albeit perhaps a bit disturbing to some. Do take a see, and if you would like to learn more about it, consider a trip to their Vimeo page, which is replete with information regrading the studio - Do enjoy!

The Curio Emporium, presented by Fear Finds

2011-12-04T18:26:00.000-05:00

Looking for some unique items for the Christmas holidays? (Beyond bones, as the screen capture show, that is)... Well, if you happen to be in South Pasadena, do consider a visit to The Curio Emporium, which has a unique selection of some exceptionally outstanding Steampunk items. In addition to Steampunk optical accessories, I was intrigued by the Atlas beetle listed, as well as the bottle of Shinola - though I think it goes with something....

A view inside The Curio Emporium

After your curiosity has been piqued, do consider a visit to their outstanding website, which is very well done, with excellent music, newsletter, upcoming events, promotionals, and a link to their Ebay store! For further information, please turn to: http://www.thecurioemporium.com/index2.php#/home/

The Anachronism presents... "Dinosaurs"!

2011-12-02T20:56:00.000-05:00

Alas, it appears the Steampunk social season will be concentrated in the New York City area this weekend, but for good reason! The Anachronism, Steampunk's iconic east coast venue, is presenting an outstanding event this Sunday, the 4th of December, from 3pm to midnight... as their official flyer states...

STEAMPUNK ANACHRONISM IV: DINOSAURS

Sunday, December 4th, 2011

3:00 PM to 12:00 AM at Webster Hall

125 East 11th Street, New York, NY

Tickets: $15 (door)

New York City’s most welcoming and overwhelmingly eclectic Steampunk event returns for a third engagement! We invite you to experience an as-yet, little-explored Steampunk crossover: dinosaurs. These thunder-lizards have captured the imagination of Verne, Wells, Doyle, and other prolific writers. But they have been unfortunately and inexplicably absent from most events – until now.

The Anachronism is an incredibly friendly event for people who like interesting music, Renfaires, geeky things, or other fun weirdness. Our launching point is mad Victorian fantasy - but we're open to anyone! Dress as you’d like, and just have fun.

Each Anachronism hosts about a dozen different performers, of various musical styles. Our headliners, Frenchy and the Punk (formerly The Gypsy Nomads), fuse live guitar looping, cheeky ballads, old-world inspired melodies, and tribal-march-style drum instrumentals – transporting the audience to a world of humor, theatricality, and bohemian spirit. Psyche Corporation is a musical experience combining art, fashion, dance, and science, within the framework of an imagined technomythological world. Their music spans genres – a recent song mixed tribal singing with classic piano while embedding the DNA of a deadly polio virus into its percussion. In keeping with our Jurassic themes, You Bred Raptors? will be making their Anachronism debut. Born somewhere between the Neolithic Era and the Industrial Revolution, this band of merry gentleman minstrel through the NYC subways with the Music Under New York Program. Local performer Danny Blu offers his dark, danceable and irresistibly sexy music. Baroque and Hungry covers more classical folk-rock. More performers are soon to be confirmed, but we aim to provide a variety of entertainment. The Anachronism offers something for everyone!

Amazing! Whimsical! Fun for all! Whether you love Steampunk or simply love grand good times, The Anachronism promises a lovely afternoon and evening of entertainments, shows, networking, running around like mad, sitting in one place and watching the world go by, drinking unusual absinthe cocktails, and generally enjoying a mad little fantasy world, surrounded by interesting and cool people. And raptors.

For more information, please consider visiting their website, at http://theanachronismnyc.com/

... and perhaps a visit to their Facebook location, at: https://www.facebook.com/events/210951828964553/

Boneshaker to become a motion picture!

2011-12-01T05:33:00.000-05:00

A first mentioned on Mr. T. Wilson's Dieselpunks, the production company Hammer has acquired the rights to the Ms. Cheri Priest's Steampunk classic Boneshaker! An exceedingly hopeful development, so to read a bit more on it, please turn to the Dieselpunks article on it, at: http://www.dieselpunks.org/group/classiccinema/forum/topic/show?id=3366493%3ATopic%3A167755&xg_source=msg

... then visit the Hammer movie production website, at: http://www.hammerfilms.com/news/article/newsid/330/hammer-to-adapt-cherie-priests-boneshaker

The Narrative of Victor Karloch...

2011-11-29T19:34:00.000-05:00

The Narrative of Victor Karloch [Official Trailer] from Kevin McTurk on Vimeo.

Even though Steampunk is replete with modern representations of the genre, it is refreshing to see a classic era form used to tell a story. The Narrative of Victor Karloch is such a endeavor, based on its very impressive trailer, and frankly, I'm very enthusiastic about its release! After enjoying the brief, do take a jaunt to the main website, titled "The Spirit Cabinet", at...http://www.thespiritcabinet.com/

Do enjoy!

The Eye-Pod, Two Point Oh, has been released!

2011-11-27T19:52:00.000-05:00

The amazing Dr. Grymm has released his newest endeavor, the "Eye-Pod, Two Point, Oh!" A indubitably clever device, as the eye works as a scroll-wheel, has a flip-up magnifier, a USB charging station, and much more! After you indulge in the animated motion document below, please consider a visit to the good Doctor's website, at: http://www.drgrymmlaboratories.com/2011/10/eye-pod-two-point-oh-steampunk-ipod-mod.html... Please do enjoy!

Steampunk Kickstarter endeavors...

2011-11-25T20:26:00.000-05:00

Well, its time again to bring a few Steampunk Kickstarter endeavors, and I'll start with the amazing SteamPig! Quite a beauty, if I do say so, It looks like a a beauty, and has a supplemental video explaining the intriguing background behind it! Do indulge in the videos, and if you wish to learn more, please visit their Facebook location, at: https://www.facebook.com/steampig !

The True Story of Parsifal the SteamPig from the steampig on Vimeo.

Next, the intriguing novel about two ladies with a penchant for science, tinkering, and adventure is currently being penned, but needs your help! I hesitate to re-write something an author has written, but I would highly suggest a visit to their locale after watching their video, which is located at: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1719411041/martius-catalyst-collaborative-steampunk-graphic-f?ref=live

... or perhaps read a bit more of the endeavor at their website, located at: http://www.martiuscatalyst.com/

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T16:18:00.000-05:00

Steampunk Turkey, but ~amoryburgess

Just a quick note to all who are indulging in Thanksgiving (and the following Black Friday), best wishes from the Steampunk Tribune!

The Third Annual Fleet Week of the Steamlands!

2011-11-23T19:52:00.000-05:00

The Steamland's nautical celebration took place last week, with representatives from different nations displaying their seaworthiness during the festivities! Mr. Loki, our resident production expert, produced another of his outstanding works, to commemorate the event! Please do enjoy, and if you are interested in the particulars of the soundtrack, do take a turn to the YouTube page, which has a complete listing!

Steampunk Spectacle videos...

2011-11-22T19:43:00.000-05:00

From one of the resources of all things quite ingenious, Mr. Goggleman has produced a set of videos on his exquisite Steampunk goggles. Alas, there is no accompanying sound to them, but I'm confident you'll be transfixed as his amazing work!

If your curiosity is piqued, do consider a visit to his Instructable tutorials, located at:

http://www.instructables.com/id/Steampunk-spectacles/

and at:

http://www.instructables.com/id/Steampunk-spectacles-2/

... for more photos of his works and further instructions on how to make your own, personalized goggles!

AnachroCon on PBS!

2011-11-21T19:09:00.000-05:00

I was pleasantly surprised the other day, when I came across a very well done and positive production of Steampunk, as PBS visited AnachroCon earlier last month. The production certainly put the essence of Steampunk into context for those who might not be familiar with the genre, and provides a bit of a newer insight for those who have enjoyed Steampunk for a good bit. But as always, enough of my chatter, please do enjoy the production!

The Aether Salon - Victuals!

2011-11-20T08:57:00.002-05:00

The newest edition of the Aether Salon will be taking place today at 2pm, SLT, with Miss Ceejay Writer hosting the edition on Victuals! As she describes in her blog,

Sunday, November 20 at 2 pm slt
Babbage Palisade & Academy of Industry

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Babbage%20Palisade/254/60/106
and
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Academy%20of%20Industry/2/56/106

What’s that bubbling in the pot on the stove? SCIENCE! Kitchen technology took great strides in the Victorian era, thanks in part to discoveries by Louis Pasteur, Gale Borden, George B. Simpson and many other inventive and scientific minds. Learn about surprising changes in food preparation of yesteryear – and how you can bring a bit of vintage techniques into your kitchen of today.

Salon presenter Ceejay Writer practices what she preaches. In her First Life, she grows and preserves foods to last through the winter months. She is a self-taught herbalist with extensive herb and tea gardens, an organic vegetable gardener and forest forager. Besides traditional canning, she enjoys figuring out new uses for her beloved dehydrator. Most of her favored food preparation methods pre-date her own birth.

If you have the opportunity, do consider attending!

The 3rd Annual Formal Uniform Dress Ball, Today!

2011-11-19T13:54:00.000-05:00

A bit late, but not too late! The Third Annual Formal Dress Ball will be taking place this evening, at the Piermont, in Wheatstone Waterways, tonight at 6pm, SLT! So break out your dress uniform, and do make a point of visiting the most attended event in the Steamlands, as the social crux of Fleet Week! To take a small boat directly, please follow: http://slurl.com/secondlife/Wheatstone%20Waterways/95/41/139

Whitby Goth Weekend's Abney Park Interview...

2011-11-17T20:29:00.000-05:00

It appears that Abney Park had traveled across the pond, to be the headliner at the Whitby Goth Weekend! Additionally, they mention their new upcoming album, "Off The Grid", which appears to be an acoustic rendition of some of their previous works, but I'm certain that there will be plenty of new surprises on it... but enough of my prattle, do take a listen!

The Ghosts of Mercury are waiting for you!...

2011-11-16T11:01:00.000-05:00

The newest work of the Space: 1889 series is available for your reading enjoyment! The Ghosts of Mercury, as described on Amazon.com, is...

"Mercury: a planet of two faces – one side cloaked in eternal darkness, the other blistered by eternal sunshine. And balanced between the two is the World River, encircling the globe.

Professor Nathanial Stone and his ward, Annabelle Somerset visit Mercury for what they imagine will be a pleasant trip to visit Annabelle’s uncle.

But tragic death precedes them – a death that provokes a chain of mysterious and terrifying events that challenge Nathanial and Annabelle’s long-held beliefs. Before long, they – with the assistance of French geologist, Arnaud Fontaine – discover something ancient and powerful that has designs on humanity."

To download your copy, please visit...

The UnTreed Reads Store
Amazon.com
Drive Through Fiction.com

... or if looking from a non-US locale, please consider visiting Mr. Chadwick's Space: 1889 blog, with alternative locations, which can be found at: http://space1889.blogspot.com/2011/11/this-just-in-ghosts-of-mercury-live.html !

Steampunk Tales, #12, is out!

2011-11-14T20:43:00.000-05:00

Another excellent edition of Steampunk Tales is out and ready for acquisition! Full of excellent writing, including...

1. Kimberley Fortune, or Blood Money? by Rekha Ambardar
2. G. D. Falksen's An Unfortunate Engagement
3. Enthalpy of Fusion by Lora Friedenthal
4. Daughter of the High City, Part 3: The Prison of Despair by Hunter Liguore
5. Some Unforeseen Event: Chapter 5 — Officers and Gentlemen by Cindy MacLeod
6. Tales from a Millwall Tattoo Parlour by Austin H. Williams
7. The Impossible Mister Lapin Investigates: The Affair of the Terrible Boar Part Three by Peter Woodworth
8. The Irreversible Catastrophe of Professor Babcock by Shelly Goodman Wright

Do pay a visit, and consider a quick purchase of this newest edition, at: http://www.steampunktales.com/

Steampunk Travelogue: Venexia

2011-11-13T19:30:00.000-05:00

As I was searching through Spanish language Second Life blogs (Caminante de Suenos - Sleep Walker) , I stumbled across a unique looking sim, whose name was new to me - Venexia. I noted its strong similarity to Venice, and needless to say, a trip was obviously in order!

An "official" photo of Venexia, from its forums

Upon arrival, I did note a few divergent things, after taking a moment to look around at the arrival site. First, it is a new site (having officially opened last Tuesday, the 8th, if I recall correctly)... and its very busy. Do be prepared for a bit of lag, and plenty of spacey noobs wandering about in the welcome area. Secondly, the sim is beautiful (more on that), but its focus is Role Play - its quite in-depth, and though the presentation of its background is well done (via a notecard matrix at the arrival point), it is detailed, so do be prepared to engage in a bit of reading. Finally, it is a Gothic role-play - meaning its not *exactly* Steampunk (though on a stretch, one could say that the waning days of sending young men on the Great Tour would have been represented by Venexia - a practiced ended by Steampunk technology (specifically, the Steam engine and the emergence of rail and steamship travel).

The very impressive Venexia Arrival destination

At Venexia's Arrival destination

One more small but vital detail - the sim is designed for a Vampiric focus... thus it revolves around this specific genre. This being said, there is a "three day" pass (which is easily "renewed"), so one can visit the sim in an "OOC" status, and either obtain a "feel" for Venexia, or simply admire the build.

The Gondola to Venexia - just sit down and you will arrive quite swiftly!

The overall theme of Venexia is a Venice with a Gothic feel to it. Much of the build was designed with this in mind, so its less likely than not you will find any "sunny" spots to take photos in the city. In actuality, though there is a normal SL day-cycle, it seems to feel more "natural" with a night atmosphere (if I recall correctly, the sim owner recommends one such appearance - including choice of "midnight").

Overlooking the canals of Venexia

Once one arrives on the sim itself, it is quite a masterpiece - the builds are crafted extremely well, with rich genre textures (and aligned well - small detail, but important), but in addition, one aspect that captured my attention was the dark and mysterious winding alleyways, along with the classic representations of Italian architecture.

A long view of the Piazza Grande, between the library and the Guild

There are many luscious builds to visit - the Basilica, the Theater, Library, Guild, a Bordello, and many more locations to indulge. Each is "home" to a "clan", but if one choose not to participate in the RP (as you'll need the "visitor" tag), one can still indulge in the atmosphere (along with a bit of classical music to accompany you on your explorations)!

Ah, a young neer-do-well outside the theater!

Which brings me back to the actual RP itself... if one is interested in at the very least paying an eye to it, there is a sim forum with an extensive description of the background, clans, and plenty more information regarding the interaction between individuals. It can seem a bit lengthy, but the background is sensible, and not overwhelming (really). To take a peek at it, please do head towards: http://community.socionex.com/venexia/venexia-background-story/

There are *plenty* of twists and turns in the alleys, so do beware (even if simply exploring)!

Having a quiet discussion with Breezy at the Piazza

I heartily recommend a visit to the Venexia... even if the genre isn't one's "cup of tea", having the opportunity to relax and explore such a beautiful genre sim is a pleasure! To start your journey, please follow this link to a Virtual Venice, at: http://slurl.com/secondlife/venexia/40/247/609/

The Steamland's Third Annual Fleet Week, in Winterfell!

2011-11-13T07:59:00.002-05:00

The long awaited Fleet Week is just around the corner, which is an opportunity to fly the colors of the Steamland fleets, starting this Sunday, and lasting until the next liberty call! Taking place in Winterfell, which is quickly becoming a haven for classic ship combat in the Second Life Steamlands, it will host a number of events this upcoming week, including...

Sunday, November 13th - The Shipbuilder's Exposition; the Exhibit of Naval Arts; and of course, the Fleet Week Opening Ceremonies, starting at 1pm SLT.

Tuesday, November 15th - The first Sailship battle of Fleet Week (6pm SLT)

Thursday, November 17th - The Iron Melee (6pm SLT)

Friday, November 18th - The Fleet Review (2pm SLT); The New Toulouse Ball (3pm SLT)

Saturday, November 19th - The Windjammer Race (12 pm SLT); Submarine Races (2pm SLT); The Third Annual Uniform Ball, (6pm SLT).

It will be a busy nautical week, but I'd highly suggest taking a moment, pressing your uniform, and perhaps paying a visit to one of the Steamland's most popular events! To read more details, I'll suggest you cross the brow and head to the smoke pit, where you'll find a copy of the Primgraph, at: http://primgraph.blogspot.com/2011/11/third-annual-fleet-week.html

Mexican Steampunk: Mercaniros de Dios and Steampunk Mexico!

2011-11-12T11:41:00.002-05:00

Logo of the Mercenaries of God

I have been sadly remiss in my coverage of the emergent Spanish speaking realms of Steampunk has been lacking... aside from the perhaps more attentive coverage I should be providing the Golden Gear (an outstanding Iberian forum for all things Steampunk in Spain), there is an excellent Mexican Steampunk magazine which by all means merits lavish attention! Mercenarios de Dios (Mercenaries of God) is a Mexican Steampunk blog and magazine which covers Steampunk for Spanish speaking individuals. Titled "The Investigator" (El Investagdor), the magazine is on its ninth edition, and has excellent articles throughout. (This issue has a great piece titled "Nikola versus Thomas", comparing the two geniuses, and stating that Tesla is rightfully a Steampunk icon, while Edison (an evil scoundrel by all means), deserves the "elephant-treatment", though my translation might be a tad off).

If you have the opportunity, I highly recommend a trip over to the Mercenaries website, indulge in Google's translation function! Alas, to read the Investigator, if you don't speak Spanish, you'll have to do a bit of work, but by all means, do pass an eye on all nine issues, including the most recent edition, located at: http://mercenariosddios.blogspot.com/

After the visit, do consider a trip to Steampunk Mexico, which is replete with intriguing commentary and writing regarding Steampunk... a very nice change from the regular English-based Steampunk chatter, it is located at: http://steampunk.mexico-foro.com/

(A tip of the hat to The Gatehouse for the lead - ty, sir!)

Wishes for a peaceful Veteran's Day...

2011-11-11T17:00:00.000-05:00

WW1 Navy Recruiting Poster, by James Montgomery Flagg (est. 1916)

Caught up in the festivities of the day, I almost forgot to wish the dedicated service men and women in all corners of the world a quiet and peaceful Veteran's Day - Thank you for your service!

(A quiet and peaceful day, because nothing is worse than having an "interesting" duty day!...)

The CBS Steampunk Fandom, with a bit extra...

2011-11-10T19:51:00.000-05:00

As many have seen (as I had mentioned on the following Monday), CBS news had produced a piece on Steampunk, presenting a very positive face to the genre to the general public. However, as a bit of kismet, it just so happened to be that the gentleman helping Mr. Rocca with his rocket-pack is none other than Mr. Ed Kidera, of the recently mentioned Steampunk Emporium (at about the 5:40 mark)! So if you haven't seen the production as of yet, do indulge in the Steampunk luminaries showing off the enjoyable and positive side of Steampunk!

Steampunk at Virtual Con - this Weekend!

2011-11-08T20:09:00.000-05:00

One of the interesting Steampunk-related events coming up this weekend is an endeavor titled Virtual Con... to better explain it, I'll defer to the official press release...

First of It's Kind Virtual Sci-fi/Fantasy Convention Keeps Costs Down

St. Louis, MO (http://www.virtualcon.org/)—The price of gas and other economical factors adversely affected attendence at many media conventions so far this year. At these events, fans of science fiction, fantasy, steampunk, supernatural thrillers, anime, and comic books converge with an avid enthusiasm akin to a religious pilgrimage at hotels and other convention centers across the country for weekends filled with a celebration of all things geek. A few of the shows grew in attendence this year, but many declined. Many fans are having to work extra jobs or overtime hours to make ends meet (if they aren't unemployed). Even if they can get the time off, they must gravely assess the current cost of road trip with gasoline prices soaring, while hotel rooms and restaurant meals don't get any cheaper.

One convention coming up on Nov. 11th, 12th, and 13th, looks to address this by using videoconferencing technology. Virtual Con 1 (http://www.virtualcon.org/) will allow fans to enjoy the convention experience without leaving their homes, or simply by going over to a friend's house for a virtual “con party”. The fan community will be able to rub shoulders with actors, authors, indy movie moguls, comic book artists, voice actors, and other celebrities from the convention world just as they would at a “brick & mortar” convention by using an easy-to-use user interface provided by the corporate training specialists at Smart Training. The interface will also provide a movie room, a cooking lesson from Stuart Bergman aka “The Con Cuisine Guy”, and a lesson in pirate fashion from the makers of “Salty Eye for the Mundane Guy”. Actor Guest of Honor is Jackson Bostwick of “Shazam!” and “Tron”. Author Guest of Honor is Shane Moore of “The Abyss Walker” series.

If your upcoming weekend is open, I'd certainly recommend the proverbial virtual trip to Virtual Con! For more details, please visit: http://www.virtualcon.org/

(and a tip of the hat to Mr. J.E. Klement for the lead on this event - my thanks, sir!)

Facebook Pages, Part 3!

2011-11-07T20:37:00.000-05:00

Steampunk V, by ~NicolasTarier

Well, a bit later than I had anticipated, but the latest addition to the Steampunk Facebook pages is done. Alas, with a cacophony of annoying non-Steampunk issues clouding my work, I regretfully was prevented from listing the narratives I was hoping to include with each addition, but... I though it was more important to have the listings posted, than attempt to extrapolate some brief narrative of my own. Thus said, please do take a moment to view some of the newer additions - I'm confident there are more, which I will append to this list, with a bit more projected enhancements in the future! But for now, please do enjoy!

A Clockwork Christmas
https://www.facebook.com/AClockworkChristmas

Central Oklahoma Grassland Steamer (C.O.G.S.)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/oksteampunk/

Clockwork Con, 2012
https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=235274829865645

Flabobligan's Armory
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Flabobligans-Armory/183183881752631

Great Plains Steampunk
https://www.facebook.com/groups/great.plains.steampunk/

Haunted Summer (Steampunk Patches and Logos)
https://www.facebook.com/HauntedSummer

Her Royal Majesty's Steampunk Symposium
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Her-Royal-Majestys-Steampunk-Symposium/145190465553545

Jazz Steampunk
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000578211982

Steampunk viii, by ~NicolasTarier

(One note... the unique photos are by a Mr. Nicolas Tarier, a French photographer who documented a National Steampunk Meeting in Paris, in October of 2011. To see the compete set of photographs, please do visit his DeviantArt website, at: http://nicolastarier.deviantart.com/)

Miss Alexandra Hamer, Classical Steampunk Musician
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Alexandra-Hamer/121564887896176

Ms. Brigid Ashwood, Steampunk Artist
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Brigid-Ashwood/291741117666

Ms. Maureen O. Betita, Steampunk Author
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Maureen-O-Betita-Author/155907664465540

Pinoy Steampunk
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Pinoy-Steampunk/139623149473176

Pirate In You
https://www.facebook.com/PirateInYou

Rise of Aester LARP
https://www.facebook.com/groups/79830639676/

Rose City Steampunk, Local 23
https://www.facebook.com/groups/354156304099/

SCARS - South Central Armada of Renegade Steampunk
https://www.facebook.com/groups/130063527061276/

Socidad SteamPunk Argentina
https://www.facebook.com/groups/102867978321/10150389513793322/

Starburner Galactic Courier Service
https://www.facebook.com/StarburnerCouriers

Steampunk VI, by ~NicolasTarier

Steampunk ii, by ~NicolasTarier

The Wandering Legion of Thomas Tew
https://www.facebook.com/thewanderinglegion

Thee-Gartisan Works
https://www.facebook.com/theegartisanworks

Your opportunity to be a villain in a Space: 1889 novel!

2011-11-07T05:41:00.000-05:00

A unique opportunity presented itself the other day, and I would say its quite unique - the opportunity to immortalized as a Steampunk villain in one of Space: 1889's second series of novels! According to the icon Steampunk author and game designer, Mr. Frank Chadwick, and notification to his website provides the chance to participate in an effort to become a nemesis in one of the series' works... to learn more, please visit his blog for the full details, at:
http://space1889.blogspot.com/2011/11/your-chance-to-enter-literature-as.html

Steampunk hat... with automation!

2011-11-06T00:24:00.000-04:00

Hello again! Still working to consolidate and streamline the Facebook links, but in the mean time, I came across this genius Steampunk hat - I'm *certain* it would be a show-stealer at any con! Mr. Gary Sullivan, the inventor of this gem, specializes in antiques (with an emphasis on clocks, if I divine correctly from his homepage), but with works such as this, I am looking forward to any future designs he builds! For more detail on Mr. Sullivan's endeavor, please pay a visit to his website, at: http://www.garysullivanantiques.com/ , and a peek at his outstanding blog, at: http://www.garysullivanantiques.com/Blog.aspx

The Steam Emporium!

2011-11-04T20:05:00.000-04:00

As I work through the trove of email I've accumulated for the next updated of the Steampunk Facebook links, I did wish to mention an outstanding website that certainly merits attention. The Steampunk Emporium is the destination of The Maets Foundation and the Society of Strange Technologies, Enigmatic Artifacts, and Mechanisms (S.T.E.A.M.), two organization with fascinating works - not just for perusal, but for acquisition, if one happens to be inclined! To take a peek at some of the impressive Steampunk metalworks, please follow the link to: http://thesteamemporium.com/

The final edition of the Gatehouse Gazette..

2011-11-02T21:24:00.001-04:00

Sadly, Mr. Nick Ottens, the editor of the respected and well-established Gatehouse Gazette, has released what is the final edition of perhaps the best online Steampunk magazine many enthusiasts of the genre have had the opportunity to enjoy. In this final edition of the Gazette, one can indulge in excellent genre articles, such as possibilities of Steampunk adventure on the African continent, an excellent piece on Germany's "Lion of Africa", how trains introduced change into modern warfare, outstanding reviews of Steampunk related media (such as "Mrs. Darcy and the Aliens", "The Three Musketeers", and the ever popular novelization of "Space: 1889"), along with interviews, regular columns, Steampunk fiction, and a bit more insight on the history of the Gatehouse Gazette, and some of the reasoning behind its finalization. However, I do wish to doff my hat to the efforts of Mr. Ottens, Dr. Molinarius, Miss Heyvaert, Mr. van Olffen, Mr. Piecraft, Mr. Rauchfuss, Ms. McCleary, and all the countless contributors who made the Gatehouse Gazette indelible imprint on furthering Steampunk and Dieselpunk genres - Thank you.

To visit this excellent work, please turn to: http://www.ottens.co.uk/gatehouse/Gazette%20-%2021.pdf

Steampunk Top Hat for your own little friend...

2011-11-01T20:22:00.001-04:00

I do have a soft spot for our canine friends and Steampunk, so a convergence of both is an excellent opportunity to post on this unique item, seen at Steampunk Costume. At Hundchen Designs, an Etsy site, there is a very nice Steampunk Dog Hat (the "Steampup"), which would make any four legged friend look yet a bit more dapper (imo)! Even better, 25% of the sale price will be donated to the Utah Humane Society, to help them help animals in need, so it is indeed a win-win.... to read more, please visit the Etsy website for Hundchen Designs, at: http://www.etsy.com/listing/75441347/dog-steampunk-hat-steampup

(... an another thanks to Steampunk Costume for an excellent find!)

Steampunk on CBS...

2011-10-31T19:37:00.000-04:00

It appears that yesterday morning, on CBS' Sunday Morning program, a piece on Steampunk was aired. Based on the associated write up, its seemed fairly basic, essentially a primer for those watching early morning television. I admit to being a tad disappointed at the organization's failure to post the video, to see how Mr. Mo Rocca narrates the work, but what I assume is a condensation of the narrative is posted on their site (along with a fellow making disparaging comments from his mother's basement). To read the narrative, please turn to: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-3445_162-20127610/steampunk-yesterdays-tomorrow/#comments

A Happy Halloween Rez-Day to Breezy!...

2011-10-31T05:50:00.000-04:00

In addition to the 31st of October being Halloween, a day to lavish youth with excessive amounts of sugary goods (to vex their parents for with sugar highs for the next few weeks), today is also the rez-day (akin to a birthday in Second Life), of my lovely partner, Miss Breezy Carver-Fabre. As the long time resident of New Babbage, not only is she the force behind what might very well be Second Life's most consistently successful social events (the Piermont Balls), but the hard working editrix of Virtually Classic Fashions, a SL blog that focuses on classic Steampunk and Dieselpunk fashions.

Happy 4th rez day, Breezy!

Steampunk Comics: Deliah Dirk and the Turkish Lieutenant (and a word of thanks!)

2011-10-30T20:41:00.000-04:00

Came across a unique online comic series (via IO9), titled Deliah Dirk and the Turkish Lieutenant, which though it isn't *exactly* Steampunk (per se), there is a good amount of swashbuckling, a Renascence protagonist, unique takes on transportation, and of course, a bit of tea! To delve straight away into Deliah Dirk's escapades, please consider visiting :http://io9.com/5854312/delilah-dirk-and-the-turkish-lieutenant-takes-us-to-1800s-constantinople-in-a-flying-sailboat

... followed by a link to the webcomic page, at: http://www.delilahdirk.com/

~~~~~~~~~~

Also, I'd like to pass a word of gratitude to all the visitors over the past four plus years, who have stopped by this blog in its many incarnations (The Voyages of a Steampunk Physician / The Heliograph / The Steampunk Tribune). The blog superseded the one million page views earlier this afternoon, and I'm honored that so many people have taken time out of their day to pass an eye on the Tribune... so I'd like to convey my thanks!

Steampunk Halloween suggestions and ideas from Steampunk Costume!

2011-10-29T10:36:00.000-04:00

Some outstanding Steampunk Pumpkins...

with their tutorials located at Steampunk Costume!

If by chance, you have been a bit behind the curve on your Steampunk Halloween preparations, I would highly suggest a jaunt over the the wonderful Steampunk Costume website, where a plethora of ingenious and creative ideas for one's costume reside! Mind you, not every idea will be attainable, as many ensembles take weeks or even months to attain, but one can still spend quite a bit of time researching ideas and inspirations from Steampunk Costume... and being that its Saturday Morning (as of this entry), you'll have a full weekend to work (or tweak) your attire! To obtain a bit more inspiration for this coming Monday evening, please visit: http://steampunkcostume.com/

Call for the Steampunk Tribune's Facebook update!

2011-10-28T21:52:00.000-04:00

Its about time that I put down the scotch and update the Steampunk Tribune's Steampunk Facebook Listings! I have a few requests to add at this point, but if you have a Facebook site which isn't listed, or know of a site which isn't listed and would like to see it added, please do drop a line at TheSteampunkTribune [at] yahoo [dot] com, and I'll endeavor to have an updated listing of Steampunk Facebook listings before we fall back an hour next weekend (yes, it is next weekend)!

Steampunk Reviews - Episode # 31: "Don't Be Afraid Of The Dark" & "Blackwood's Guide To Dangerous Fairies"

2011-10-27T18:11:00.000-04:00

Miss Yankee999 is ever diligent (as always) with her endeavor - her newest Steampunk Reviews focuses on "Don't be afraid of the Dark", a excellent Guillermo del Toro production, and "Blackwood's Guide to Dangerous Fairies", a companion book (of sorts) to the production - please do enjoy!

Steampunk Travelogue: NeoVictoria

2011-10-25T20:51:00.005-04:00

As those who are familiar with Second Life, many sims come and pass, often without acknowledgement of their hard work of their creative teams. Some have worked hard and have established themselves as steadfast destinations of the Steamlands, carving out a unique niche from which they are able to flourish. I have the good fortune of making the acquaintance of Miss Asil Ares, one of the many creative minds behind their exceptional works, which blend Steampunk and Machinima into unique endeavors. In-between producing works, scripting, filming, running NeoVictoria's dedicated Ning, and many of the other demands on her time, Asil took time to answer a few questions for the Tribune...

Steampunk Tribune: Could you tell me about NeoVictoria's origins?

Miss Asil Ares: I’ve always loved Steampunk, and have spent my life devouring mythology, fantasy and science fiction, so when I dreamed about creating a world, it was those kinds of images that came to my mind. I've also played roleplay games since I was a kid and wanted the possibility of a community whose roleplay wasn’t lost once the scene was over. So NeoVictoria is very much a mixing of those themes and desires.

Bridal Portrait, by Miss Aiyaka Vella

I think of the fae (or Sidhe) through the prism of the oldest of the stories and not the Magic or the White Wolf games which so many Second Life players consider authoritative. In the Eddas, we're told of the nine worlds (two of which are ruled by fae of the light and dark variety). In the history of those ancestors, when their gods (the Aesir) were destroyed in apocalypse (Ragnarok), the bridges between the nine worlds collapsed and the cosmos was divided, allowing the age of man to began. In the dimension of NeoVictoria, however, the Sidhe did not fade from our sight ...the question becomes, why not?

In our fantasy realm, the queen of the dark elves saw the fall of the Aesir and withdrawal of the Vanir as an opportunity; she refused to fade ...instead she made her peace with this change in humankind's fortunes and harnessed us to serve her. Along the way, she has made many compromises, not the least of which is embracing our technology and using the old power-places in new ways.

[Brigid Ashwood's evocative "Locust Queen," is the 'official' portrait of The Queen and is used with the permission by the artist.]

This is why her Empire, Pax Britannica writ large, remains in the mechanical age of steam. Humankind, by entering into a vassal system with the fae received benefits (long life, a certain freedom from disease), but our science and technology is stagnant. Rather than harnessing the power of the atom, these people have learned to use magic …even to go so far as capturing the souls of men or the spirits of elfish prisoners to power their machines. There are no star-ships, but portals that link the worlds. No nuclear reactors to fill the cities with light, but golden spherical prisons beneath her cathedrals where supernaturals are milked for their innate power. For that is what humankind does …we use the resources of our environment to serve our needs; but here …in this reality …our fecundity is held in check by a nature that knowingly uses us. Humankind is her army, pouring forth through portals opened to conquer world after world in her name. We are legion, but we are also leashed.

Sky Pirate Party, by Miss Asil Ares

The Empire is vast and contains thousands of planets. The heart of the Empire is old Earth and that is where the Queen and her court live. However, NeoVictoria is not Old Earth. Its a tiny planet in the Vico III galaxy, far from the seat of power; its full of ruffians and characters of questionable pedigree. Chinese have a saying, "The sky is high and the emperor is far away" ...that's how a place like NeoVictoria can exist. Neo is at the edge of The Empire's territory ...a backwater ...it holds no strategic importance and is, perhaps, almost forgotten. All societies need places like this ...places where people who can't work within the framework of civilization can exist. Its tolerated by design, for its rulers understanding that all pressure-cookers need escape-valves.

The Physical Construction

The NeoVictoria Project exists in several places. We have a community portal on the NING platform that chronicles the work our members do and a two-SIM estate in the virtual world of Second Life where people roleplay together. When you first teleport into the Second Life simulation, you're on a skyplatform far above the land level where the roleplay occurs. The Skymall is an out-of-character place where players can learn about the project, watch our machinimas, shop for period dress, weapons and gadgets, take photos, practice weapons and enjoy occasional out-of-character parties in the skyclub.

The land-level is where the roleplay happens and that space is always in-character. NeoVictoria is an adult simulation, players must be at least 18 years old in real life to play here. While not dystopic, we are a "dark" roleplay simulation. Demons, vampires, lycanthropes, creatures from other planes, rapists, serial killers & similar creatures roam the streets. This means *characters* often act in aggressive, predatory, criminal and/or plain uncomfortable ways. We have an observer's tag people can wear, if they want to visit but not roleplay. We ask that observers be respectful of the work and dress to the theme (Gothic, Victorian, Steampunk). There are free costumes on the skymall level if people don't have appropriate costumes of their own.

The Steampunk Tribune: There are numerous Steampunk sims in Second Life... What sets NeoVictoria apart from the rest?

Miss Asil Ares: Our commitment to machinima. The ultimate goal of NeoVictoria is to create a virtuous circle where role-play becomes filmed story and we support our machinimatographers with in-world tools and website resources. The Machinima Tools building on the skymall level has an in-world tutorial for the BijoCom Construction System (this is a prim-based tool that allows machinimatographers to control their camera in specific ways) and is the in-world home to the Second Life Machinima Artists Guild (http://slmachinimaarts.ning.com/). Our website has its own Machinimatographer's group to support productions. So far, we've had eight machinimas made for the NeoVictoria project and all are streamed within the NeoVictoria estate in Second Life and on http://www.neovictoria.net.

Tales from NeoVictoria: The Iron Rose
Description: Sidhe, shades, dJinns, demons ... humans, werebeasts, dragons, vampires ... supernatural creatures off all ilk are here and these are our stories. Visit NeoVictoria, the roleplay simulation with the machinima twist! Dark roleplay, steampunk style.
Parcel Page: http://world.secondlife.com/place/4e0ffc83-b1ce-05ce-922f-14f88c37e72a
SLUrl: http://slurl.com/secondlife/NeoVictoria/12/165/703
YouTube Link: http://youtu.be/ZOU5EeoU_PM

NeoVictoria presents Cammy Teardrop's No Monsters But Ourselves
Description: This machinima by Cammy Teardrop won the 2011 NeoVictoria Machinima Contest. Visit this parcel to see it and to learn more about dark roleplay, steampunk style!
Parcel page: http://world.secondlife.com/place/976cb732-2fc3-0c4f-b667-30a7d3680669
SLUrl: http://slurl.com/secondlife/NeoVictoria/10/189/703
Vimeo URL: http://vimeo.com/24309013

NeoVictoria presents Tikaf Viper's The Kiss 2
Description: This is Tikaf Viper's submission for the 2011 NeoVictoria Machinima Contest. Its based on our roleplay.
Parcel Page: http://world.secondlife.com/place/857b1f2f-72de-0c59-9208-1ac1ccd69203
SLUrl: http://slurl.com/secondlife/NeoVictoria/11/201/703
Vimeo URL: http://vimeo.com/23553777

Tales from NeoVictoria: Demoria Arrives
Description: Using the immense powers the Cathedral of Air and Darkness harbors, Manes seeks to bring over his lost love and wife from his home universe to NeoVictoria. >> This machinima was created from our roleplay and made Linden Lab's October 2011 Month of Machinima award program!
Parcel Page: http://world.secondlife.com/place/c15d7f1c-36d5-b217-6bb1-d426b1dc0237
SLUrl: http://slurl.com/secondlife/NeoVictoria/12/91/703
YouTube URL: http://youtu.be/Ba3LhaUg_LA

Tales from NeoVictoria: The Kiss
Description: But what if dreams came true? >> This Steampunk love story was made from our roleplay.
Parcel Page: http://world.secondlife.com/place/cd73cbac-2a23-e5c3-cab1-00313dc0849f
SLUrl: http://slurl.com/secondlife/NeoVictoria/12/79/703
Vimeo URL: http://vimeo.com/10341449

Tales from NeoVictoria: I Will Find You
Description: Friend yearn to reconnect after eons apart. This steampunk love story by Lilac Collas was made from our roleplay.
Parcel Page: http://world.secondlife.com/place/40b7efee-4c94-9b73-ca48-7e7849da5ff6
SLUrl: http://slurl.com/secondlife/NeoVictoria/10/66/703
Vimeo URL: http://vimeo.com/24858685

Vincent & Co., Funeral Parlor and Undertaker, by Miss Aikaya Vella

Steampunk Tribune: What are the most notable part of your sim (e.g. architecture, events, etc...)?

Miss Asil Ares: On Machinima SIM, we have the Machinima Tools building on the skylevel and a CCS-enabled maze on the land level that people enjoy.

In-world Premiere of "The Kiss, by Miss Asil Ares

On NeoVictoria SIM, we have our fantastic skyclub and on the land-level, the Cathedral of Air and Darkness dominates. This 3,000+ prim build touches the cloud layer and it an integral part of the world-story, containing many unique elements, scripted elements and original builds.

Steampunk Tribune: Are there regular event which people can visit and enjoy your sim?

Miss Asil Ares: We usually have a least one event scheduled every week. Sometimes its an out-of-character party or an in-character event. We post scheduled events to our website (http://www.neovictoria.net) and send notices via the in-world NeoVictoria Roleplay Group (http://world.secondlife.com/group/b1595e47-0dce-5de8-9707-656562923a0d).

Steampunk Tribune: Is there anything else you'd like to mention about NeoVictoria?

Miss Asil Ares: We use the Community Combat System (CCS) as a roleplay tool; I cannot stress this enough, for us CCS is a tool to aid the roleplay, we are NOT a first-person-shooting type combat SIM. You do not have to wear the meter to roleplay in Neo unless your roleplay is violent. The CCS meter is free (there a givers on the skylevel) and we do periodic training on how to use.

NeoVictoria has a lot to offer and sometimes new players find it overwhelming. With that thought in view, we designed an online brochure which gives a brief overview (a "wearable' version is available in-world). If people have questions, they can contact me directly (asilemail-neovictoria [at] yahoo [dot] com) or speak with one of our staffers in-world.

My thanks to Miss Ares for a comprehensive insight to NeoVictoria, and to learn yet more about NeoVictoria, please consider visiting...

The Neo-Victoria Ning, at: http://neovictoria.ning.com/

New World Notes article on NeoVictoria

Honor McMillain's Post Menopausal View entry on NeoVictoria

New Babbage North Fells has arrived!

2011-10-24T20:41:00.000-04:00

The temptation was simply too much for Mayor Tenk, while Linden Labs were making their offer of "no-setup" fees for new land... thus landed New Babbage North Fells! Upstream from the New Babbage Palisade, North Fells is a homestead sim, but a fantastic addition to City-State.

The "old" town hall in North Fells

As is the tradition with the arrival of a new sim in New Babbage, its "sandbox week", so if you are a resident, do consider having a bit of fun in the Sandbox - on November 1st, (next Tuesday), it will turn into a "respectable" location! To pay a visit, please head there via...
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/North%20Fells/68/20/106

Steampunk Gear, Gadgets, and Gizmos - a DIY manual to Steampunk Accouterments

2011-10-23T21:08:00.001-04:00

Just a bit of a heads up, for those who are either attuned to developing and perfecting their own Steampunk attire, or simply preparing the basics for an upcoming costume event, a new book might be able to provide a few hints and tips to accessorize your appearance. Steampunk - Gear, Gadget, and Gizmos is a newly released book which provides excellent tutorials on building Steampunk additions (from its excerpts, as my local book store doesn't carry it, and well, Amazon is apparently shipping by burro now-a-days).

Each chapter is a new item - outstanding!

In addition to each chapter containing a new item as its focus, a brief tutorial is provided for each, as seen below! So if you are a tad handy, and wish to upgrade your Steampunk panache, do consider a peek at this gem, which can be found at: http://www.amazon.com/Steampunk-Gear-Gadgets-Gizmos-Artifacts/dp/0071762361/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1319418374&sr=8-1

... for more details regarding this publication, please visit the Steampunk Dad, at: http://www.wired.com/geekdad/2011/10/create-your-own-steampunk-gear-gadgets-and-gizmos/

(A tip of the hat to the Steampunk Dad for this excellent find!)

Steampunk Reviews - Episode #30!

2011-10-22T23:48:00.000-04:00

Miss Yankee999 takes a moment to review the production of "Cowboys and Aliens" - an incisive view of well... I'd recommend a moment to watch! Do enjoy!

The Fourth Annual Masquerade Ball, in Wheatstone Waterways, this Saturday at 6pm, SLT...

2011-10-21T21:31:00.000-04:00

The Fourth Annual Masquarde Ball will be taking place this Saturday, the 22nd of October, at the Piermont Landing - starting at 6pm SLT! Be part of the festivities, as the Steamland's most popular social event continues, along with the newest build competition, the "Ghost in the Machine"! For more details, visit the New Babbage Aethernet, at: http://cityofnewbabbage.com/drupaltest/node/3669

Results of the latest poll... with the new Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows trailer...!

2011-10-20T20:34:00.000-04:00

A bit behind on the poll results, so I'll address the most immediate question, regarding the most anticipated Steampunk themed movie for the balance of the year. The results were quite resounding, with Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows garnering 88 votes (or 70% of the total), followed by The Invention of Hugo Cabret with 19 votes (15% of the total), and the new Three Musketeers movie in third place with 17 votes (13% of the total). After seeing the most recent trailer for Sherlock Holmes: AGOS, I certainly understand the anticipation, although Mr. Downey Jr. is quite atrocious in his lady-esque costume. Nonetheless, do enjoy the trailer, and be ready on December 16th, when the production arrives at the theaters!

To visit the movie's website, just follow the link!: http://sherlockholmes2.warnerbros.com/index.html

Steamcon III Photos!

2011-10-19T16:41:00.000-04:00

Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.

Took a bit of hunting, but I happened upon a brilliant set of photos from this weekend's fantastic Steamcon III! Excellent shots, and from what I've read on their boards (and additional sources), an excellent event! If you desire to add your own appropriate photos, do consider a visit to Steamcon III's Flickr group, located at: http://www.flickr.com/groups/steamcon_3/ !

Steampunk Political Party T-shirts...

2011-10-18T20:06:00.000-04:00

T.R.'s classic Bull Moose party!

Ah, when one shuffles through the political braying of the current day, one wishes that perhaps times were simpler, or at least with more inventive political parties, perhaps... fortunately, though some of these entities are long extinct, one can at least fly colors of parties that, if things were different, would have enthusiastically supported Steam (and Steampunk)!

Honest Abe's 1860 "election t-shirt"

I came across a unique website that sells t-shirts from different presidential races from bygone eras, and was surprised to discover they had an "American Legends" section, with political imagery of candidates of an era long ago! Retro Campaigns specializes mostly in modern-ish (read from the 1930s to the 1980s), but they do have an (albeit small) selection of t-shirts from the Steampunk era (well, 1840 is a bit early, but that shirt has a great catchline), and are clever enough that the feeble minded will be confused, and those with a bit of education will likely give a small chuckle, if not more! To get a better view of these classics, please turn to: http://www.retrocampaigns.com/index.html

Steampunk Travelogue: The Looking Glass

2011-10-16T18:45:00.000-04:00

Most of the Steamlands have held steady over the past few years, with only a handful of new entities coming online. There, however, is a slowly developing trend to integrate Steampunk aspects into new sims, without making the entire sim into the them. Some succeed, some struggle, but one which stands out is a beautiful new sim established by two exceptionally talented designers (Mr. M. Inkpen, and Ms. S. Azalee), named The Looking Glass.

The arrival point to The Looking Glass

At first, the port arrival isn't necessarily telling about what is to come in the build, as it is actually non-descript, with a loading boxes, a (nice) group joiner, and further information regarding events in the sim.

A few free gifts for group members are available

However, heading up a bit further, one of the first things I noted was an outstanding quality and attention to detail that reminded of the works of Mr. Sextan Shepherd's builds. The minute details of the cobble stones, the fountain, and the surrounding structures were exceptional.

Probably the best Art Nouveau cafe store front I have seen in SL

Their main store for purchases is located in this somewhat abandoned urban area, with small nods to a Steampunk aesthetic as one looks around. Not all of the items for sale are exclusive to the genre, but a good number are, such as their outstanding Victorian street lamp, and their exquisite Vintage Bus Stop.

On my way towards the current amphitheater, I noted the abandoned theater, and decided to take a peek....

... and again, their build and texturing quality is exceptional - likely some of the best in SL, imo.

The Art Nouveau design of the amphitheater caught my attention, so passing the tulips and "healthiness" of the build, I came across a very unique (but sadly not for sale) item...

... this stone head of a statue of a Victorian Gentleman, complete with monocle! As an additional bit, illuminate lightbulbs waft around his stone cranium.

The design of the Art Nouveau stage, along with an appropriate Victorian musical piece (one can never go wrong with a piano!) was well done, with plenty of space in the surrounding areas to enjoy any performances provided - close enough to enjoy, but without being crowded.

Off to the distance, the Flying Eye Art museum, ah, caught my eye, so to took a leisurely stroll to the edifice in anchoring itself in the midst of the sim.

Again, notable Steampunk-esque relics abound in the museum, along with artwork from noted Second Life designers...

... such as my good friend, Mr. Skusting Dagger. The contrast between the aged and weather exterior versus the decor and polish of its interior is a perfect locale to display art from talented individuals in Second Life.

As one heads to back of the museum, taking a backwards glance a the classical architectural silhouette, one then turns to see....

... what looks like an endless Victorian cobblestone bridge appears, extending towards a vague object in the distance....

... which is actually a work titled La Mer, a beautifully detailed cello "housing a lonely fish who is dreaming of living ins a more luxrious abode than its fishbowl!" A beautiful work, which I certainly have an eye on for the Heliograph!

The Looking Glass is an amazing sim - I've touched on what could be seen as the Steampunk aspects of it, but there is so much more to investigate, explore, and experience! Perfect for photography, couples, or simple relaxation, I heartily recommend a visit to The Looking Glass - to do so, please visit...
http://slurl.com/secondlife/horizon%20dream/199/109/56/

To learn even more about The Looking Glass, I would suggest...
Miss Honour McMillian's blog entry on The Looking Glass
The Design Challenge review of La Mer
and their homepage, located at: http://www.jmrart.com/thelookingglass/

The return of the Aether Salon!

2011-10-14T21:18:00.000-04:00

Outstanding news! The Aether Salon, which was on hiatus, is returning! A message from Baron Klaus Wulfenbach to the Tribune stated...

What is 'Salon'? According to Dictionary.com it is:

salon [suh-lon; Fr. sa-lawn]

1. a drawing room or reception room in a large house.
2. an assembly of guests in such a room, especially an assembly, common during the 17th and 18th centuries, consisting of the leaders in society, art, politics, etc.
3. a hall or place used for the exhibition of works of art.
4. a shop, business, or department of a store offering a specific product or service, especially one catering to a fashionable clientele: a dress salon; a hair salon.
5. ( initial capital letter ) (in France) a. the Salon, an annual exhibition of works of art by living artists, originally held at the Salon d'Apollon: it became, during the 19th century, the focal point of artistic controversy and was identified with academicism and official hostility to progress in art. b. a national exhibition of works of art by living artists: Salon des Refusés; Salon des Indépendants.

We may extract bits and pieces of those definitions to answer an even more burning question: What is 'the Aether Salon'?

The Aether Salon has, in its illustrious past, attracted speakers from all over the Steamlands to gather on the third Sunday of each month in its iconic building in the City/State of New Babbage. These interesting, talented, or sometimes simply lunatical speakers have enthralled and educated rapt audiences for an amazing 28 month run under the original ownership. The final 'first edition' Salon in August, 2011, ended with the unfortunate destruction of the building in a freak explosion, something quite rare in New Babbage.

But the Aether Salon is returning, now under new management, but quite respectful of the reputation and history of the Aether Salon. Soon, you shall again be able to soak up the knowledge and wisdom of a fresh crop of Salon speakers.

Or - shall you be amongst the speakers? Think upon it. What is your passion in life? What knowledge do you have to impart? Might your topic be suitable for the Salon? If you are able to put your passion into words, please contact Baron Klaus Wulfenbach (klauswulfenbach.outlander inworld) and describe your chosen topic.

The first 'second edition' Salon shall be Sunday, October 16th at 2 pm SLT as is usual; it will be celebrating the Anniversary of the Salon as a whole. All former speakers are requested and urged to attend (please wear your sashes if possible). The unveiling of the model of the new Salon building will also take place, so the first regular speaker of the new season will present in an eyecatching venue on November 20th.

Please join the Aether Salon group, free of charge, for notices of upcoming sittings, at: http://world.secondlife.com/group/257bb953-2165-e1e9-c472-64f71873237d

So do take advantage of the return of the Aether Salon this Sunday, October 16th, at 2pm SLT!

Steamcon III - Starting this weekend!

2011-10-13T12:25:00.000-04:00

The Big Weekend is upon us! One of the most talked about Steampunk conventions, Steamcon III, will be taking place this upcoming weekend, in Bellevue, Washington! For those fortunate enough to attend, there is a cacophony of events to partake in, such as...

The Airship Awards Banquet (Friday, @ 7pm) - Presenting the second annual Airship awards to the outstanding contributors to the Steampunk genre.

The Amphirite Society Annual Tea (Saturday, @ 2pm) - The exceptionally talented Unwoman will be performing, as well the Bathing Costume Competition (oh, and tea, of course).

The Nautilus Concert (Saturday, @ 9pm) - The soiree will be opened by Miss Unwoman, followed by the exceptional talents of the phenomenal Vagabond Orchestra and the Clockwork Dolls, so it is certainly an event not to be missed!

The Wayfarer's Bunch (Sunday, @ 11am) - Engage in a discussion of the expanding world of Steampunk, involving differing cultures from around the Victorian age!

With plenty of guests of honor, merchants, an art show, and much more, I would certainly pay a visit to the Steamcon III website, to learn yet more about this seminal event in Steampunk... so close the hatch to your boat and head to: http://www.steamcon.org/index.php

Space: 1889 and Beyond Trailer released!...

2011-10-12T20:05:00.000-04:00

Recevied word that the new Space: 1889 and beyond trailer was released to day, so do indulge, and consider a visit to Space: 1889's website, at; http://space1889.blogspot.com/

Steampunk Kickstarter works in progress...

2011-10-11T21:06:00.000-04:00

Well, I've fallen a bit behind in highlighting the novel independent endeavors from the Steampunk Kickstarter realm, so I hope to attempt to make amends, I will commence with the Kickstarted endeavor of Miss O.M. Grey, who is looking for a bit of assistance with her three new novels, The Zombies of Mesmer, Caught in the Cogs (an anthology of her works), and an untitled novel for 2012. Do consider a visit to her Kickstarter page, followed by a trip to her outstanding blog, titled "Caught in the Cogs", at: http://omgrey.wordpress.com/

Doctor Fantastique's Show of Wonders is working furiously to their online work and produce a hard-copy Steampunk magazine! They hope to acquire enough funding for the first three issues of their endeavor, and the writeup at their Kickerstarter locale provides yet more information, so if the thought of a real Steampunk magazine is a tempting idea, do pay them a visit, followed by a trip to their webpage, at: http://www.doctorfantastiques.com/

Miss Unwoman, an extraordinary musical talent who is well known in Steampunk circles, will be playing three sessions for the fortunate individuals who are able to attend the upcoming SteamCon III! As part of her voyage to the great emerald city, she is seeking funding to produce a documentary regarding what will be an superlative time! To learn more, as always, please visit her own Kickstarter, where she provides much more information and an event or two in her non-musical existence... at: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/unwoman/the-unwoman-film-project-steampunk-cello-music-rev?ref=live

The New Babbage Register has started up...

2011-10-10T20:17:00.000-04:00

The virtual Steampunk City-State of New Babbage has had a number of off-world incarnations since its inception. From the original New Babbage Forums & New Babbage Cog, to the New Babbage Ning, and the current City of New Babbage homepage, many changes have taken place, but unfortunately, much has been lost of one of Second Life's longest lasting Steamland sims (though not as long Caledon, to respond to those who were already thinking of sharpening their pencils regarding this)!

To try to address the loss of history that has taken place over the years, I've started up the New Babbage Register, to assist the formal New Babbage Department of Records and Archives in keeping New Babbage's past intact. Its a bit of a Gibbon-esque endeavor, and though I'm no classic historian by any measure, hopefully it'll add a bit of retrospective flavor to the entirety of New Babbage. To take a peek at this work in progress, please turn to: http://newbabbageregister.blogspot.com/

Tor.com Steampunk week concludes!

2011-10-09T18:37:00.001-04:00

Well, the Tor.com Steampunk week has wrapped up, with a plethora of very intriguing articles, with some very informative, and others even brushing up on some controversial territory. Regardless, kudos to Tor for yet another well done Steampunk week!

The offers for e-books has a bit more time (albeit there are some issues with non-US customers and some download opportunities). Nonetheless, downloads aside, if you haven't indulged in the substantial amount of articles, do take the opportunity to so, perhaps starting with the closing entry, located at: http://www.tor.com/blogs/2011/10/steampunk-week-2011-on-tordotcom-closing

The Call of Cthulhu, inspire by Dr. Seuss...

2011-10-08T17:52:00.000-04:00

As I was working on a few articles, I came across IO9's unique find, just in time for Halloween - a Dr. Seuss inspired Call of Cthulhu! Penned and illustrated by the exceptionally talented Dr. FaustusAS, I was immediately memorized by the excellent artwork and writing (and I haven't even read any mythos lately!) To indulge in the full (to this point) series, please do visit his DeviantArt website, at: http://drfaustusau.deviantart.com/gallery/32992770

The Trailer for the Raven - a new look at the legendary Edgar Allen Poe!

2011-10-07T21:59:00.000-04:00

Released a bit earlier today, a new take on the classic horror author Edgar Allen Poe (or at least the trailer)
I think there is less of the "science" of Steampunk in this movie, but it does appear to provide an atmosphere of the genre, albeit with a "horrific" slant. Alas, though the trailer was released before Halloween, the movie itself isn't project until March of next year. Nonetheless, one can learn a bit more about it by watching the trailer (which is quite intriguing), followed by a a peek at the links listed below - do enjoy!

http://insidemovies.ew.com/2011/10/07/the-raven-trailer-john-cusack/

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/07/the-raven-trailer-release_n_1000276.html

http://www.cinemablend.com/new/New-Look-At-Alice-Eve-In-James-McTeigue-s-The-Raven-26824.html

Space 1889: Vandals on Venus has been released!

2011-10-06T21:44:00.001-04:00

The second installment of Space: 1889 has been released! Vandals on Venus is the second in the first series from the original Steampunk series is available in ebook, details the adventures of Nathanial Stone, when he...

"... gets an emergency message from an old friend on Venus, begging for his help, his duty is clear: he must go at once!

His ward, Miss Annabelle Somerset, instead of agreeing to stay safely on Earth as he begs, insists on accompanying him to the dangerous tropical planet, home of huge reptiles.

Soon, Nathanial and Annabelle find themselves in the middle of a plot concerning a nefarious German officer, a brilliant English inventor, an Irish guide no better than he should be, a heavily-armed lizard-man, and a clever American newspaperman.

Can they prevail against such odds?"

To enjoy the latest adventures (perhaps acquire the first in the series), which as been so amazingly successful it has been picked up for a second series, please visit, Untreed Read Store's Space: 1889 page, at:

http://store.untreedreads.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=68_7_49_197

And obtain yet more details about the future of the series, by the Master of Classic Steampunk, Mr. Frank Chadwick, at his outstanding website...http://space1889.blogspot.com/

... and visit Mr. Frankham-Allen's website, with yet more details about Vandals on Venus, at: http://frankhamallen.com/2011/10/04/vandals-on-venus-by-k-g-mcabee/

Steampunk Reviews - Episode #29, Dreadnought Review!

2011-10-04T21:31:00.000-04:00

In this episode of the Steampunk Reviews, Miss Yankee999 tests a "Vlog" format (with bullet points, per her description), and reviews Ms. Cheri Priest's novel Dreadnought - do enjoy!

Tor Book's Steampunk Week - 3rd to the 7th of October!

2011-10-03T19:50:00.000-04:00

The good fellows and ladies at Tor.com have launched Steampunk Week (starting today), hosted by the indubitable Miss Ay-Leen the Peacemaker! Chock full of excellent Steampunk articles, insights, and intriguing banter, a visit is most certainly a must - to do so, please follow the link, and do begin with Monday's collection, at: http://www.tor.com/blogs/2011/10/steampunk-week-2011-on-tordotcom

Additionally, Barnes and Noble will present a Steampunk "Picks of October", highlighting established and new authors in the genre, located here... http://www.tor.com/blogs/2011/10/barnes-and-noble-booksellers-picks-for-october-steampunk-edition!

(Now if you'll excuse me, there is an excellent article on the website, regarding mechanical pooping ducks, that I must indulge in!)

The Midnight Archive - Anthropomorphic Taxidermy

2011-10-02T09:14:00.001-04:00

While visiting IO9, a source of much strangeness, they highlighted an article from a series titled "The Midnight Archive", which focused on "Anthropomorphic Taxidermy". Apparently quite popular with Queen Victoria, I'd venture that though most have seen said types of works today, either they thought it was endearing, disturbing, or likely a modicum of both. I've included a few links, in case one wishes to learn more, or try their hand at the hobby - they are just below, and do enjoy!

http://morbidanatomy.blogspot.com/

http://observatoryroom.org/
... and the original IO9 post, at: http://io9.com/taxidermy/

Engines of Destiny... a fantastic work in progress!

2011-10-01T09:06:00.000-04:00

While hunting down works and news, I came across a unique set of videos, as part of production which, sad to say, has had little to no highlighting, much to my surprise. It happens to be a new production, titled "Engines of Destiny", and after a visit to their website, I must say I'm quite impressed with their work, as they continue on their project!

From what I've discerned, they are a small independent group of filmmakers, who are busy producing a Steampunk movie, albeit as they say, a "no-budget" epic. However, after reading their accumulated production entries, they have done quite a yeoman job with the aforementioned "no budget".

There are time lapses in the entries, which I would logically attribute to have a work-a-day employ (bit of a vexing situation but one does have to pay the bill - I suppose). Fortunatly, they did upload a series of excellent character profiles, in addition to their production status works.

However, they haven't added any new videos on their work since February of this year, though they do keep up with the production stills, and appear to be diligently heading toward completion (perhaps a Kickstarter funding option might help)? Nonetheless, do consider a visit to their home page to keep up with their latest news, located at: http://www.obviousnotion.com/engines_of_destiny/

Hark A Vagrant, on NPR...

2011-09-29T21:21:00.000-04:00

On the way to work, I was pleasantly suprised to learn that Miss Kate Beaton, the wonderful talent behind "Hark A Vagrant" was not only publishing a book of her works, but was kind enough to provide an interview to the audio Steampunk nemesis known as NPR. Although the writers chose in my opinion, a poor selection to describe Miss Beaton's work (the above Tesla work is much better), the interview is quite enlightening, and certainly worth a listen! To do so, please visit NPR's interview website, at: http://www.npr.org/2011/09/29/140804195/hark-from-dna-to-jfk-a-comic-take-on-history

Additionally, do visit Salon for another interview...
http://www.salon.com/books/laura_miller/2011/09/22/kate_beaton/index.html

and consider a few dinars toward her upcoming work (as pictured above)... ready at Amazon...

http://www.amazon.com/Hark-Vagrant-Kate-Beaton/dp/1770460608

... and finally, visit her website! It is at...http://harkavagrant.com/index.php

Steampunk Literature: Mrs Darcy versus the Aliens

2011-09-28T20:10:00.000-04:00

A bit ago, the series of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies took foot, and retelling (improving, in my opinion - especially after having to endure it with the swooning other half) of Ms. Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, and other enhancements of her works. Today, I received word from the exceptional Lord Likely (as from "The Astonishing Adventures of Lord Likely"), about a new ... enhancement to Ms. Austen's works. Mrs. Darcy versus the Aliens is a new take on the classic work. It is a bit different, so its is best if one has a sense of humor (and what Steampunk devotee doesn't)? To learn a bit more, do take a jaunt to their website, located at: http://www.mrsdarcyvsthealiens.com/

(A tip of the Steamy bowler to the good Lord Likely, for the lead! Do remember to pay a visit (and indulge in the adventures of...) The Astonishing Adventures of Lord Likely!)

The Cog is Dead - "Death of the Cog"

2011-09-27T21:00:00.000-04:00

A tad pressed with RL impositions, however, please do enjoy an excellent selection from The Cog is Dead's self-titled first album. Though they are hard at work on their next endeavor, but after you indulge in their track (one of my favorites), do learn more about one of Steampunk most popular bands, at...

The website, at: http://www.johnmondelliproductions.com/thecogisdead/index.html

The Steampunk Wikipedia, at: http://steampunk.wikia.com/wiki/The_Cog_is_Dead

and visit them on Facebook, at: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Cog-is-Dead/97081207130?sk=wall

How to make a Steampunk Tag...

2011-09-26T19:14:00.000-04:00

Today's entry is a bit more on the "DIY" aspect of Steampunk... I happened upon a very useful time-lapse video documenting how to make a "Steampunk Tag". A lot of ink, stamps, and glue are involved, but the finished product is quite nice indeed - do enjoy!

The trailer for Adventures in Science has been released!

2011-09-25T18:58:00.001-04:00

Came across this intriguing production titled "Adventures in Science" (AIS), which was premiered at the Grand New England Steampunk Exposition earlier this month. Additionally, their blog, http://adventuresinsciencefilm.blogspot.com/, details the travails involved in making the AIS endeavor, and its quite intriguing to shuffle through their archives, and watch what is involved with developing the work. So, do enjoy the trailer, and do consider a visit to their website, to learn more about Adventures in Science!

The 4th Annual Engineer's Ball, this Saturday!

2011-09-22T20:33:00.000-04:00

The Piermont has finally returned, and just in time for the 4th Annual Engineer's Ball! However, the Piermont has a new and distinct look, establishing it as one of the many outstanding builds of New Babbage. Inspired by one of Steampunk venerable graphic artists, *Alanise, it is a SL version of an incredible, and until now, inaccessible location (as it was limited to the artist's own graphic brush). You can see the original inspiration below...

Airship Station Building, by *Alanise ...

Additionally, the traditional photography contest will be taking place, focusing on the beautiful images of New Babbage. To take part in the Grand Opening of the Piermont, indulge in its fantastic new grounds, and even participate in the photography contest, please pay a visit to the New Babbage website, at: http://cityofnewbabbage.com/drupaltest/node/3471

... and its SL counterpart!

Steampunk Peterpan and Steampunk, Writing and Publishing

2011-09-21T21:08:00.000-04:00

A bit pressed for time, due to some in-world circumstances, but I did wish to point out two things... The Vancouver Film School produces a film each year, as part of their overall effort to hone their artistic skills. This year, their project was quite unique - a retelling of Peter Pan ... a Steampunk Peter Pan! However, an alumnus of the Vancouver Film School has already reviewed their work... on his Steampunk blog!

Steampunk, Writing and Publishing is the endeavor of Mr. M. Fenger, who aside from being a computer animator, is currently penning a novel (Aetherstorm). He has been diligently writing, blogging, and more, so do consider a longer visit to his blog, located at: http://brassbolts.blogspot.com/

Steampunk on CNN's "Geek Out!"

2011-09-20T19:56:00.003-04:00

As one ventures outside the world of Steampunk, into larger media sources, one wonders if articles produced, which "explain" Steampunk, are providing a benefit to those who may not be familiar with the genre (in the sense of focusing on unique and creative aspects of the genre), or use Steampunk as a simple filler piece for harried journalists. A majority of press pieces of late have been positive, though at times some are head-scratching odd, when trying to figure out an article's storyline (beyond "those crazy people who dress like Victorians").

Fortunately, CNN's "Geek Out!" provides a nice review of Steampunk, focusing on Dragon*Con, and touches on convivial aspect that the majority of Steampunks enjoy. Additionally, the comments are well balanced, with a compendium of satisfying retorts to the inevitable trolls by people who do appreciate the genre. Worth a look, imo, so please follow the link here... http://geekout.blogs.cnn.com/2011/09/05/steampunk-trend-barrels-ahead-at-dragoncon/

Alternate History Steampunk Maps...

2011-09-19T20:59:00.000-04:00

British Skylanes, by ~Alt-Reality

Steampunk, interestingly enough, is easily one of the most popular alternate history genres on the market. By definition a change in technology, leading to changes in political, economic, and a plethora of other things, is not only a great potential for excellent writing (just ask the Steampunk Scholar for a few suggestions), but alternate history maps with a Steampunk view are also unique gems to behold.

Years of Steam, Part 1, by ~Alt-Reality

I happened upon the artistic cartographer, ~Alt-Reality, a bit ago, who designed some amazing alternate history maps. A few Steampunk-focused maps exist, but to truly enjoy them do take the link to the lager versions - they are painfully beautiful! Additionally, there are plenty of other alternate history maps at ~Alt-Reality's Deviant Art location, (including yet a few more Steampunk maps to indulge in), located at... http://alt-reality.deviantart.com/

The Sky Commodore's Autumn Equinoxial Masquerade Ball, coming this October 1st, 2011

2011-09-18T19:38:00.000-04:00

Received news of an event upcoming in only a few weeks... The Sky Commodore's Autumn Equinoxial Masquerade Ball will be taking place this Saturday, October 1st, 2011! If one happens to be in the environs of Dallas/Ft. Worth, do consider a visit, with more details available at: http://skybourne.com/