March 2nd, 2024. 1204, Caledonia Avenue. After months of planning, the day of Destination Imagination had arrived. The fine arts department Had stationed themselves in the band room, patiently awaiting for their time to present their challenges. But before we get into that, we need to go back. Way back…..!

When we were given our groups for this project, a mixture of PLP 9s and 10s, I wasn’t sure how to feel. 

I wasn’t familiar with the 10s we were given, and wasn’t thrilled with the 9s. 

I’m so incredibly grateful for my group- but were get into that later. 

Firstly, what’s Destination Imagination?

DI, as its known, is a worldwide battle in which groups from around the globe compete to find the most creative, wacky, witty, and unique solutions to challenges. There are a few different categories of DI challenges, ranging from Improv and Engineering, to Science and Fine Arts. 

I found myself stationed Fine Arts. There were many components to the fine arts (farts, as we came to call it) challenge. We had to create a play that included many things. They are as followed:

-1 dynamic character 

-1 static character 

-1 piece of kinetic art (Art that moves)

-1 piece of reimagined art (A famous piece of art incorporated creatively)

-2 team choice elements

Going into DI, I was intimidated. My brother told me horror stories from his experience, and the magnitude of the project was scary. There were so many rules about keeping things confidential. You weren’t allowed to talk to people about anything regarding your solution but your group mates and project manager- for us, Mr. Harris. Even now, I can’t share too many details about our solution, considering we have another competition day coming up in April. 

My group- the Scream Snatchers- consisted of Hunter P, Alva P, Parker L, Sofia G, and Jessie G. They were incredible to work with. Our story centres around Edvard Munch’s infamous Scream painting.

Everyone understood the magnitude of the situation, and how much it would mean to the teachers had we were to place well. Everyone worked hard, and everyone wanted to succeed. I really have to give credit to Sofia. She assumed the leadership role, and ran with it. She was so incredibly dedicated to our success, and I felt super honoured to share a group with her- not to say my other group-mates weren’t as important. Our group succeed in adaptability, hard work, and commitment.

Another thing I loved about our group is that it didn’t feel like we were being forced to work with one another. We joked around, gossiped with each other, and meetings didn’t feel like chores. They were fun. It felt like we’d all known each other for years.

Unfortunately, I don’t have any photos from DI. If I get some, I will upload them ASAP.

 

DI is a stressful time. 

I think everyone can agree that. 

The days leading up to competition day, we were worried. We didn’t have too much done, but had a LOT to get done. Lots of sleepless nights during DI. Luckily, our group was able to adapt, rework elements, and just straight GRIND in order to get a solution present on March 2nd. We stayed at school for hours after 3pm the previous day, put our heads down, and worked. 

Fortunately, we ended up with a result we were happy with. 

But the thing about having 2 competition days, is that we can build upon what didn’t go as we wanted on day 1 for day 2. On day 2, our group will be sure to manage time better, and rework scenes of our story to better match the expectations of the judges. 

So far, DI has taught me many life skills. Problem solving, adaptability, creativity, and most importantly, team work. Definitely worth the sleepless nights, and I’m sure that list will be added to after day 2. 

But until then, I’m outta here. 

See you on April 2nd.