In-betweener

There’s nothing else to do but type my ramblings here while waiting for something, anything to happen in my career. Earlier today, I happened to get intrigued by this job posting of a company looking for a New Media Art Director. The company is based in Ho Chi Minh City, Viet yeah Nam! So I decided to write (or rather, custom fit a template) cover letter to the creative director, whose name sounded French. Wasn’t expecting any reply from him anyway, given my experience in applying to jobs here in Singapore. I got a bit excited though, since it’s one of those moments that make you feel a bit hopeful to get a nod from the CD, because it’s the CD you’re already talking to.

However, in a matter of minutes, Mr. Creative Director asked for more typography-driven work from me! Unfortunately, my work with Cosmo SG hasn’t been properly uploaded yet in my new book, so I had to send some of my old magazine work and zine “experiments” . Let’s see how that turns out, if ever he decides to become more interested in my work.

…

It’s so strange how suddenly I’m in the mood to apply for full time jobs. This really goes against my way of thinking last year, that gap-year of artistic and geographic freedom. Is it a perspective shift, trying to find that niche that will require my utmost commitment? Commitment?! What the? The last time I checked, I was enjoying being a stranger. Or writing about flings. Or just wanting to be out there.

Anyway, all these jobs I’ve been hunting for are not in my home country anyway. Have I grown to become a stranger?

Packing Up

10 days left until I go back to Manila. I don’t know if it’s an act of submission to my fate in Singapore. But I do know that I only have 30 days to remain here beginning August 1. I didn’t maximize the allowable time frame for me as it would only mean spending more money in the country. Food and socializing can get very expensive.

I have moved out of my flat at Bukit Merah View and now bunking over at Chiara’s apartment down the road at Henderson Crescent. Six people live in her flat– all Pinoy, but in all aspects they are Filipino. (Like how my former roommie Alex describes them: hardcore Pinoy.) None of the American accent of my former flatmates. TFC is mostly on the tube. Menudo is on their dining table.

Menudo?! I mean, we don’t even cook menudo that often back at my house in Marikina. That’s how Pinoy this household is. Somehow I miss the westernized, fake American-ness of my old apartment. In a way, it did  like being out of the Philippines.

And now, settling here at Henderson Crescent perhaps makes the transition of going back home faster. Not that I need any proper transition.

It’s just so fast, going here and the leaving part. Just when I was starting to get accustomed to the lifestyle! Maybe Singapore is not for me. Well, I haven’t really said anything great about my host country in the few months I have lived here.