Art

September 14, 2021

This Japanese Village Creates Massive Rice Paddy Art Every Year

Since 1993, the village of Inakadate in northern Japan has been revitalizing its culture through amazing rice paddy art, or tambo āto. Every May, about 1,300 volunteers come together to plant different varieties of rice in an intricate design. By the time summer comes along, their hard work is in full bloom, attracting thousands of tourists to the site.

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September 10, 2021

Christopher Columbus Statue in Mexico City Will Be Replaced by a Monument To Indigenous Women

Mexico joins the long list of countries gripped in a post-colonial reckoning with problematic historical figures as its capital city puts plans in motion to replace a long-standing monument to Christopher Columbus. Previously located on one of Mexico City’s main thoroughfares, Paseo de la Reforma, the 19th-century bronze statue of the controversial explorer was removed by city officials last October for scheduled restoration.

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September 6, 2021

Elegant Oil Paintings Capture the Ethereal Beauty of Massive Pastel Flowers

Everyone loves to receive a bouquet of fresh flowers, but how often do we pay attention to their finer details? Ukrainian artist Ira Volkova makes it easier to study the delicate structures of petals in her massive floral oil paintings. She captures a variety of pastel-colored blossoms with masterful precision. Based in Kyiv, Volkova received formal training in painting at the Kyiv National Academy of Fine Arts and Architecture.

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September 4, 2021

Learn About Japanese Daruma Dolls, Good Luck Charms With a Rich Tradition

Although Japan has many symbols of luck and good fortune, the Daruma doll is undoubtedly a favorite. Believed to have supernatural and psychological powers, the traditional papier-mâché figures are used to help their owners achieve their goals. Read on to discover the history and meaning behind these good luck charms.   What is a Daruma doll? A Daruma doll is a hollow, round, Japanese doll that dates back to the 17th century.

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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.