A matter of life and death

When a friend introduced Dr_Bond to a game where he could mine stone using a pork chop, he was instantly captivated. Now, six years later, he is crafting some of the most atmospheric builds in Minecraft PE. He must have spent countless hours using just a pork chop as a pickaxe. Should we tell him about the existence of actual pickaxes, or let it be?

In addition to his unconventional use of food items, Dr_Bond also stands out from others in various ways, especially regarding how he plans his constructions.

“I like to come up with a name for my building project first,” says Dr_Bond. “Then I create everything that comes to mind when I start thinking about the words that pop into my head.” This process has helped him focus on specific goals for creating something new rather than aimlessly experimenting with different blocks and colors.”

This likely contributes to the unique style found in his works, which often center around themes of life and death. Dr_Bond explains, “Art for me is about immersing someone in another world and reflecting your imagination within it. What intrigues me always revolves around artistic themes, and death is one of those subjects.”

Moreover, he introduces these themes with nuance, exploring symbolism and attempting to showcase more than one perspective. He describes this as the relationship between Yin and Yang; “in many of my builds that involve life and death, it’s my way of representing the cycle that all natural forms follow.

Whether an animal dies and returns its nutrients to the soil or the path to death paves the way for new life, it always provokes certain thoughts.”

Dr_Bond experiments with color spectrum, using it to illuminate his ideas. “I often feel that the colors corresponding to their respective concepts end up being completely opposite, which creates a very interesting final product,” he states.

“I sense that many people have a vision of what can be built in Minecraft Pocket Edition, so I always strive to show them something different. I also believe that death doesn’t always need to be interpreted in a dark manner or as an ending, so for my project Flower;Corpse, I added flowers blooming along bones as a sign of revival.”

This is what I truly appreciate about Dr_Bond’s constructions. He delves deeply into his craft, thoughtfully engaging with various elements. When he depicts death, he does so without the usual undertones of sadness and depression.

Even though darker hues reflecting sorrow are prevalent in his builds, there are also splashes of bright shades that adorn the structures with vivid colors. “I really enjoy incorporating various colors into my builds,” says Dr_Bond. “I feel that this adds atmosphere and narrative to what is seen.”

While this may seem like a simple design choice, Dr_Bond elaborates on the complex process of achieving perspective in his builds and tries not to overload too many elements at once. “This is a crucial part of balanced construction,” he tells me.

“It might appear straightforward, but while building, you can get carried away. There are numerous calculations involving color theory and concentration of specific blocks, but the biggest process I go through is balancing contrast—it’s a simple error-checking, testing, and making small adjustments. You don’t know how it looks until you make physical changes.”

No matter the events and consequences, Dr_Bond considers it essential to reflect what you feel in the creation of a build. “I always try to infuse meaning into every project,” he says. “This truly helps players immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the build and become part of it. In most cases, my constructions are based on my experiences gained during the building process or inspired by ideas that arise in my mind. I believe that imagination and experience can drive a builder to create quality structures in Minecraft Pocket Edition, resulting in something grand!”

Check out his latest work titled “The Perfect Puppet.” Dr_Bond began constructing this piece for the contest “Human Achievement.” With this build, he had the opportunity to showcase how perfection can be an element of achievement. He drew inspiration from Rococo culture to influence the style of the structure.

For his build, Yokai Synthesis, Dr_Bond utilized Japanese folklore. “I am of Japanese descent,” he explains, “so in this build, I reflected a more personal view of my culture rather than anything else. I wanted to present something original and authentic, drawing upon my knowledge of Japan. I aimed to convey something that most people are unaware of, leading to the creation of Yokai Synthesis.”

He continues, “In many culturally-based builds, there’s a special feeling, and I think that’s wonderful. It has become a way for others to express their heritage and influences. Japanese architecture possesses a very unique appearance, having undergone many changes due to its Chinese counterpart. There are numerous ways to utilize its concepts and designs, making it an intriguing topic for execution and presentation of something captivating.”

Dr_Bond has grown into an experienced builder through his works. He has created constructions that reflect his culture while contemplating the dangers of human ambition and exploring the mysteries of birth and death. He has managed to construct various creatures and skeletons that look incredibly lifelike! If he dares to create such things, what could possibly surprise him?

I pay close attention to the techniques used and whether any elements in the build are provocatively unusual, deviating from standard constructions! I’ve seen many assemblies over the years, so I’m always looking for something refreshing, both in concepts and techniques.”

He adds, “I am a strong supporter of individuals who attempt to try something new in their builds, even if it initially seems silly.”

Nonetheless, experience, desire, and a particular approach always aid in construction and help stand out from the crowd. “I believe balance plays a vital role. Knowing just the right amount of what needs to be added truly assists in the composition of the build. It also indicates to me that the builder has a sense of style they are working with in MCPE.”

I can’t wait to see how Dr_Bond will continue to weave magic with his imagination. I want to witness the themes and ideas that will be employed in his upcoming builds. Whatever it may be, it will undoubtedly be something incredible, beautiful, and contemplative, leaving us with much to ponder. For instance, watching someone mine cobblestone with nothing but a pork chop in Minecraft PE!