The Sandbox

The sandbox is a safe place for experimentation and play:

The term ‘sandbox’ originates in programming and software development terminology and was coined due to the need to create an isolated environment where-by servers and their data are protected from potentially harmful changes of code and data made by implementing untested programs.  Sandboxes replicate functionality needed to accurately test the progams or code under development, thus perfecting the code before distribution into the main system or network.

In Second Life, the sandbox is the place where the ‘provisional’ is made ‘visional’.  This space is reserved for testing constructions and building elements that will make up the virtual world.  Since everything in Second Life is created by the users, the sandbox is an important part in developing the virtual world, allowing users to create expression and enable to sense of place and ownership in a world entirely make-believe.

“Welcome ring.

[13:55]  You: can you direct me to a place of provisional construction?

[13:55]  Ten Kenorland: yes

[13:55]  Ten Kenorland: open search and click the places tab

[13:55]  Ten Kenorland: then type “Sandbox”

[13:55]  Ten Kenorland: and click search again

[13:57]  You: thanks.just out of interest, where abouts are in the world are u?

[13:57]  Ten Kenorland: I am near Washington DC, you?

[13:57]  Ten Kenorland: and, you’re welcome : )

[13:57]  You: sheffield, england.

[13:58]  Ten Kenorland: Well, welcome to Second life, Rux”

Orientation Island

101,171,22 

08/01/2008 13:58 PST

What if the site and/or the program were percieved as a sandbox.  Where users could create and manipulate the space in their own terms and for their own use? An expression of identity can be created.  Indeed, like The Boxman, create their own box, their own perspective on the world, and their own identity.

The sandbox is a place where ideas are conjured, tested and developed.  They are rehearsed.  The Proun Room of Suprematist painter El Lissitzky is decribed by the artist as ‘the station one changes from painting to architecture’.  The sandbox is the station were the virtual and the imaginary becomes the actual and the real.