Posts by Madeleine Muzdakis

Madeleine Muzdakis

Madeleine Muzdakis is a Contributing Writer at My Modern Met and a historian of early modern Britain & the Atlantic world. She holds a BA in History and Mathematics from Brown University and an MA in European & Russian Studies from Yale University. Madeleine has worked in archives and museums for years with a particular focus on photography and arts education. When she isn’t writing, she enjoys hiking, film photography, and studying law while cuddling with her cat Georgia.
Illustration
September 19, 2020

Exquisite Instructional Book From 1896 Illustrates How Flowers Become Art Nouveau Designs

The Art Nouveau movement was known for the beautiful way in which it depicted natural forms. Now, you can gain more insight into the aesthetic that swept Europe from 1890 through 1910 with the book La Plante et Ses Applications Ornementales (The Plant and Its Ornamental Applications). Published in 1896 by Swiss graphic designer and art instructor Eugène Grasset, the elaborately illustrated book was influential in defining the movement's style.

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Toys
September 16, 2020

14 of the Coolest Lego Sets for Kids and Adults

The iconic LEGO brick, patented in 1958, has entertained and inspired people for decades. Generations of children have honed their fine motor skills and stretched their imaginations with these versatile blocks. For adult fans, LEGO expanded into challenging builds and collectable models. Contemporary artists even use tiny plastic bricks to create immense LEGO sculptures. Whether you choose a set or create freestyle, the LEGO brick is a symbol of creativity and imagination.

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Science
September 13, 2020

Interactive Map Reveals How Your Hometown Moved Over Earth During Millions of Years

A new interactive map allows anyone to trace their hometown's geographic shifts through millions of years of Earth's history. Entitled Ancient Earth, the site is easy to use. Users simply begin by dropping a pin in a location of their choice. They can then choose from a range of dates stretching back to 750 million years ago and observe how the landmasses carrying their location have shifted, combined, and separated on Earth's tectonic plates.

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Inspiring
September 8, 2020

20 Inspiring Quotes From Famous Authors on the Art of Writing and Life

Aspiring writers often wonder where to begin. Love, suffering, loss, humor—all artists attempt to capture the human experience. This can be a daunting task for first-time novelists and young poets. For inspiration and guidance, beginners may turn to the words of legendary novelists. For experienced writers, the wisdom of literary luminaries such as Maya Angelou, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, and J.D. Salinger offers a chance to meditate on the craft.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.